Perfect Blueberry Pie

Instructions

Double Crust

In a large bowl, stir together 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt. Cut 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold) and 8 tablespoons vegetable shortening (cold) into slices or small cubes. Toss them in the flour to prevent sticking.

Use a pastry cutter to cut the butter and shortening into the flour mixture until it resembles a coarse meal or sand. Gradually add in 1/4 cup ice water and 1/4 cup vodkastirring gently until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix. Divide the dough into two equal pieces, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Filling

In a large mixing bowl, toss 4 cups fresh blueberries with 1 cup granulated sugar. Let sit for 1 hour, then drain excess liquid. Add 3 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 pinch ground nutmeg, and 1 pinch salt and toss to coat.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

Roll out one piece of chilled dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Gently roll it around the rolling pin to transfer to a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate. Press into place and let excess hang over the edge. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Roll out the second piece of dough into a 13-by-10-inch rectangle. Cut into 8 strips for the lattice and transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill until ready to assemble.

Place the pie plate on a baking sheet (in case of spillage). Spoon the blueberry filling into the crust. Lay 4 of the dough strips evenly across the top. Weave the remaining strips perpendicular to create a lattice pattern. Trim any excess dough and pinch the edges to seal, then crimp the dough evenly around the pie using your fingers.

Brush the lattice with the beaten egg white and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon granulated sugar. Bake for 25 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 3035 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling bubbles. Cool on a wire rack before serving.

Dessert