American Flag Pie

How to make a patriotic American flag pie for 4th of July and all summer picnics! It’s delicious with homemade pie crust and mixed berry pie filling. This American Flag Pie is not only visually stunning but also packed with delightful flavors from fresh berries. Perfect for parties, barbecues, or a festive family dessert, it brings a slice of patriotism to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually Stunning: The American flag design makes this pie a showstopper at any gathering.
• Fresh and Flavorful: Made with a mix of berries, every bite bursts with flavor.
• Homemade Goodness: Using a homemade crust elevates this pie to an extraordinary level.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for the 4th of July but delightful all summer long at picnics and gatherings.
• Family Fun: Involving kids in decorating the pie can create wonderful memories.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure you have everything ready.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch pie dish
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or pastry wheel
• Mixing bowls (small, medium, large)
• Star cookie cutter

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch pie dish: Essential for providing the right shape and size for your American Flag Pie.
• Rolling pin: Helps you roll out dough evenly for the perfect crust.
• Sharp knife or pastry wheel: Important for cutting precise strips and shapes for the flag design.

Ingredients

• Homemade Pie Crust (my recipe makes 2 crusts; 1 for bottom and 1 for flag design)
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup (35g) cornstarch
• 1 cup (140g) blueberries
• 1 cup (100g) blackberries
• 2 cups (300g) chopped strawberries
• 2 cups (450g) halved dark sweet cherries
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract, divided
• egg wash: 1 large egg beaten with 1 Tablespoon (15ml) milk
• optional: coarse sugar for sprinkling on crust

How to Make American Flag Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Prepare my pie crust recipe through step 5. This will give you a flaky base that complements the fruity filling beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Berries

In a small bowl, stir the granulated sugar and cornstarch together. In a medium bowl, combine the blueberries and blackberries. In a large bowl, combine the strawberries and cherries. Stir in the cornstarch mixture into each berry mixture along with lemon juice and almond extract. Place in the refrigerator while you roll out the crust.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). This initial high heat helps set the crust perfectly.

Step 4: Roll Out the Bottom Crust

On a floured work surface, roll out one disc of chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Carefully place it in a greased 9-inch pie dish. Tuck it in smoothly.

Step 5: Arrange the Filling

Spoon strawberry filling into one section of the crust and blueberry filling into another section. Discard any excess liquid to avoid soggy pie.

Step 6: Create the Top Crust Design

Roll out the second disc of dough into another circle. Cut strips for stripes and use a star cookie cutter to make stars. Decorate your filled pie with these cutouts to create an American flag design.

Step 7: Finish Off

Lightly brush your decorated pie with egg wash and sprinkle coarse sugar if desired.

Step 8: Bake

Place your prepared pie on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes. Then lower temperature to 350°F (177°C) and bake an additional 30-35 minutes until golden brown.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Let your American Flag Pie cool completely at room temperature for about three hours before serving to allow filling to thicken properly. Enjoy this delightful dessert!

How to Serve American Flag Pie

American Flag Pie is not just a treat; it’s a festive centerpiece for your summer gatherings. Whether you’re celebrating the 4th of July or hosting a picnic, this pie is sure to impress. Here are some fun and creative ways to serve it.

Slice with Style

• Whipped Cream: Serve each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added creaminess.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the berry flavors, creating a delightful contrast.
• Fresh Berries: Garnish the plate with fresh blueberries and strawberries for a colorful presentation.

Festive Plating Ideas

• Flag Design: Arrange slices on a platter in an alternating flag pattern using berries and whipped cream.
• Mini Pies: Create individual mini American Flag Pies using muffin tins for easy serving at parties.

Pairing Beverages

• Lemonade: Offer refreshing homemade lemonade to balance the sweetness of the pie.
• Iced Tea: Sweetened iced tea makes for a lovely, classic companion.

How to Perfect American Flag Pie

Making the perfect American Flag Pie requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your pie-making skills.

• Use Chilled Ingredients: Chilled butter and water will help you achieve a flaky crust.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix dough gently until combined; overworking can lead to tough crusts.
• Fruit Freshness: Choose ripe fruits for maximum flavor; this will enhance the taste of your filling.
• Bake with Care: Monitor baking time closely, ensuring the crust is golden but not burnt.
• Cool Completely: Allow cooling time, as this helps the filling set properly before slicing.

Best Side Dishes for American Flag Pie

To create a well-rounded meal, pair your American Flag Pie with delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Corn Salad: A colorful mix of grilled corn, tomatoes, and cilantro that adds freshness.
2. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze for an easy appetizer.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad with herbs provides a hearty complement to the light pie.
4. Veggie Platter: An assortment of fresh vegetables served with ranch dip offers crunch and color.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances the sweetness of the pie perfectly.
6. Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs add a touch of nostalgia and flavor to your spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an American Flag Pie can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using warm ingredients: Ensure your fruits and pie crust are chilled before mixing. Warm ingredients can lead to a soggy crust.
• Not measuring accurately: Precision is key! Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for the sugar, cornstarch, and fruits to achieve the right balance of flavors.
• Overfilling the pie: Avoid adding too much liquid from the fruits when filling the pie. Excess moisture can make the crust soggy and affect texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Don’t rush to serve your pie. Allow it to cool completely for at least three hours. This step helps the filling set properly.
• Forgetting egg wash: Brushing with egg wash gives your pie a beautiful golden color. Skipping this step results in a dull appearance.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover American Flag Pie in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking slices to prevent sticking.

Freezing American Flag Pie

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating American Flag Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C). Bake for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different fruits for my American Flag Pie?

Yes! You can customize the fruit filling based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Consider using raspberries or peaches for a twist.

How do I prevent my crust from getting soggy in an American Flag Pie?

To avoid a soggy crust, ensure you remove excess liquid from the fruit fillings and bake until golden brown. An egg wash also helps create a barrier.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance or freeze it for later use. Just remember to allow time for cooling before serving.

What is the best way to serve my American Flag Pie?

Serve it chilled or at room temperature. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top makes it even more delightful!

Final Thoughts

The American Flag Pie is not only visually stunning but also deliciously satisfying. Its versatility allows you to customize with various fruits, making it perfect for summer picnics and celebrations. Try this recipe, and impress your guests with a dessert that’s as festive as it is tasty!