This Crustless Blueberry Pie is a simple and delicious dessert made with fresh blueberries and a buttery, tender base. The pie is easy to prepare, requires no crust, and can be made in just over an hour. It has a rich flavor from cinnamon and almond extract, making it a unique take on traditional fruit pies. Serve it with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra treat!
The origins of this Crustless Blueberry Pie recipe are rooted in simplicity and nostalgia. It all started in a small kitchen nestled in the countryside, where busy family members would often gather after long days of work. Blueberries were in abundance, plucked fresh from the garden bushes just behind the house, and the family always sought out simple, comforting desserts to bring everyone together at the table.
The absence of a traditional pie crust wasn’t a culinary choice at first, but rather a happy accident—one day, with no time or ingredients for a proper crust, the baker decided to forgo it altogether. What emerged from the oven was a delightful surprise: the blueberries had sunk slightly into the buttery, cinnamon-spiced batter, creating a dense yet tender base that was naturally rich in flavor. The addition of almond and vanilla extracts added layers of warmth and complexity, making the pie both aromatic and deeply satisfying.
As word spread through the family and beyond, the Crustless Blueberry Pie became a cherished recipe, especially loved for its ease of preparation. No rolling pins, no fussing with dough—just a handful of pantry staples, fresh fruit, and a little time in the oven. Whether served at summer picnics or at cozy family dinners, this pie became a symbol of the joy that simple, homemade desserts can bring.
Even today, when life gets busy and time in the kitchen feels scarce, this recipe offers a reminder that the most memorable meals aren’t always the most complicated. With each bite, you taste the juicy burst of blueberries, the sweetness of sugar, and the hint of almond that transports you back to those long, golden afternoons when life was just a little bit slower.
What Does a Crustless Pie Taste Like?
A crustless pie has a texture similar to a custard or a cake-like base rather than a traditional pie with a flaky crust. The absence of the crust lets the filling and fruit shine, giving you a more intense burst of flavor with each bite. The Crustless Blueberry Pie has a tender, slightly gooey center with a buttery and spiced taste from the cinnamon and almond extract, balanced by the natural sweetness of fresh blueberries. It’s comforting, rich, and deliciously simple.
Ingredients in a Crustless Blueberry Pie
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the pie and provides a crisp topping when sprinkled over the blueberries before baking.
- All-Purpose Flour: Helps bind the ingredients and gives the pie a cake-like structure.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice that complements the sweetness of the blueberries.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and moisture, making the pie tender.
- Eggs: Give structure and help create a custard-like texture.
- Vanilla and Almond Extracts: Vanilla adds warmth, while almond extract gives a unique, aromatic flavor that pairs well with blueberries.
- Fresh Blueberries: The star ingredient, adding bursts of juicy, fresh flavor throughout the pie.
How to Make a Crustless Blueberry Pie
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 350°F and prepare a 9-inch pie dish by spraying it generously with cooking spray.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: Melt the butter, and in a separate bowl, whisk it with eggs, vanilla, and almond extracts.
- Mix Wet and Dry: Stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until combined. The batter will be thick.
- Add Blueberries: Fold in 2 cups of fresh blueberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
- Transfer to Pie Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish, smoothing it out.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of blueberries and 2 tablespoons of sugar over the top. Bake for 34 to 39 minutes, until set and lightly golden.
- Cool: Let the pie cool before serving.
Recipe FAQs
Can I Make the Pie with Frozen Blueberries?
While this recipe is specifically tested with fresh blueberries, you can use frozen blueberries. If using frozen berries, don’t thaw them first, as this could make the pie soggy. You might need to increase the baking time a bit.
Can I Use Another Berry?
Yes! This recipe works with other berries such as raspberries, blackberries, or even a mix of berries. Adjust sweetness based on the tartness of the berries you’re using.
Do I Have to Use a Pie Plate?
Not necessarily. If you don’t have a pie plate, a similarly sized baking dish or cake pan (about 9 inches in diameter) will work. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it might differ slightly depending on the thickness of the batter.
How Will I Know the Crustless Pie Is Done Baking?
You’ll know the pie is done when the edges are set, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The top should be lightly golden, and the pie will continue to firm up as it cools.
Storage and Make-Ahead
At Room Temperature:
This pie can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap for up to 5 days.
In the Freezer:
You can freeze the pie after it has fully cooled. Securely wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. It will stay good in the freezer for a maximum of 3 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before eating.
Make-Ahead:
This pie can be made up to 1 day in advance. Once cooled, cover it tightly and store it at room temperature. You can also prep the dry and wet ingredients separately the night before and combine them the next day before baking for a fresher pie.
Crustless Blueberry Pie
Ingredients
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar divided
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or to taste
- ½ to 1 teaspoon of almond extract adjusted to your preference
- 2 cups plus ¼ cup fresh blueberries divided
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously spray a 9-inch round pie dish with cooking spray. If using a metal dish, baking times may vary.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- Melt the Butter: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter on high for about 45 seconds. Allow it to cool slightly before proceeding.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the melted butter. Whisk until well combined.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the wet mixture to the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Stir until combined, but avoid overmixing. The batter will be thick.
- Incorporate Blueberries: Gently fold in 2 cups of blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Transfer to Pie Dish: Pour the batter into the prepared pie dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Top the Pie: Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup blueberries and 2 tablespoons of sugar evenly over the top of the pie.
- Bake: Bake for 34 to 39 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (no raw batter).
- Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool on a wire rack before cutting into it. Serve it as is or with whipped topping or ice cream for added indulgence.
Notes
- For a gooier center, consider baking for 35 minutes, though this is based on personal preference. Every oven and climate vary, so keep an eye on your pie while baking.
- This pie will keep for up to 5 days if stored airtight at room temperature.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 195 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 77mg
- Sodium: 86mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
The Crustless Blueberry Pie is a wonderfully simple yet delicious dessert that showcases the natural sweetness and juiciness of fresh blueberries. With no need for a traditional crust, it’s easy to prepare and requires only a handful of ingredients. The combination of buttery richness, aromatic cinnamon, and almond extract makes for a unique flavor profile that will delight any pie lover. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this pie is a perfect treat for any occasion. Plus, with its flexible storage options and make-ahead convenience, it’s a great recipe to have on hand for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
