If you're a fan of blueberries, you'll love a slice of delicious blueberry pie. The average 9" diameter two crust blueberry pie contains around 2791 calories.
While it's not exactly a low-calorie dessert option, blueberries are packed with nutrients, and there are ways to make a healthier version of the classic blueberry pie. Blueberries are high in fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K, and they're even thought to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Let's take a closer look at the nutritional composition of blueberry pie, its health benefits, and potential side effects.
Calories in Blueberry Pie (Two Crust)
As previously mentioned, a 9" diameter blueberry pie with two crusts contains around 2791 calories. This is due in part to the sugar and butter used in the crust and filling. Eating a slice of blueberry pie is therefore considered a decadent treat, and it's not recommended to consume it regularly if you're trying to maintain a healthy diet.
Composition of Blueberry Pie (Two Crust)
Blueberry pie is typically made with a pastry crust on the bottom and top, and a filling made of fresh or frozen blueberries, sugar, butter or margarine, and cornstarch or flour. Some recipes may also include lemon juice, cinnamon, or nutmeg. Blueberries are one of the key ingredients and make up the majority of the filling. Depending on the recipe, the fruit may be cooked down to a sauce-like consistency, or left mostly intact for a chunkier texture.
Health Benefits of Blueberry Pie (Two Crust)
While blueberry pie is not exactly a health food, blueberries themselves are packed with benefits. Blueberries are high in fiber and vitamins C and K, and they also contain antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and prevent disease. Research has found that regularly consuming blueberries may help improve cognitive function, promote heart health, and regulate blood sugar levels. However, it's worth noting that the high sugar and fat content in traditional blueberry pie can outweigh some of these benefits.
Side Effects of Blueberry Pie (Two Crust)
There aren't many side effects of eating blueberry pie, but consuming it regularly can lead to weight gain and other health problems associated with excess sugar and fat intake. Some people may also experience digestive issues if they eat too much pie in one sitting, especially if they're not used to high levels of butter or margarine.
Serving Size of Blueberry Pie (Two Crust)
A typical serving size of blueberry pie is around 1/8th of the pie, or one slice. This is based on a 9" diameter pie, but note that serving sizes and nutritional values may vary depending on the recipe used.
Preparation Time of Blueberry Pie (Two Crust)
The preparation time for blueberry pie can vary depending on the recipe and whether you're using fresh or frozen blueberries. Generally, it takes around 15-20 minutes to prepare the filling, plus an additional 30-40 minutes to bake the pie. You'll also need time to make the pie crust, which can take up to an hour. All in all, you can expect to spend around 2 hours preparing and baking a blueberry pie from scratch.
Storage of Blueberry Pie (Two Crust)
If you have leftovers, store blueberry pie in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep it covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. You can also freeze blueberry pie for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Allergens in Blueberry Pie (Two Crust)
Blueberry pie contains several common allergens, including wheat, dairy, and eggs. If you have a wheat allergy, look for a recipe that uses a gluten-free flour blend instead of wheat flour. If you have a dairy or egg allergy, you may need to find a recipe that omits these ingredients or use substitutes such as almond milk or flax eggs.
Variations of Blueberry Pie (Two Crust)
There are many ways to put your own spin on blueberry pie. Some variations include adding other fruits such as strawberries or raspberries, using a crumb topping instead of a second pie crust, or adding a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream on top. You can also experiment with different spices or sweeteners to change up the flavors.
Pairings for Blueberry Pie (Two Crust)
Blueberry pie pairs well with a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, milk, and even red wine. You can also serve it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a classic indulgent dessert. If you're looking for a healthier option, try pairing it with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of sorbet.
"Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first." - Ernestine Ulmer
5 FAQs on Blueberry Pie
1. What is the nutritional value of a 9" Dia Blueberry Pie?
A 9" Dia Blueberry Pie (Two Crust) contains approximately 2791 calories. It also contains fat, carbohydrates, protein, and other nutrients depending on the ingredients and recipe used.
2. Is Blueberry Pie Healthy?
Blueberries are a great source of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. However, Blueberry Pie is usually high in calories, sugar, and fat due to the added ingredients. It's best to consume Blueberry Pie in moderation and pair it with a healthy diet and lifestyle.
3. Can Blueberry Pie be made with a healthier crust?
A healthier crust can be made using almond flour or whole wheat flour instead of white flour, and coconut oil or Greek Yogurt instead of butter. However, it's important to note that the texture and taste of the pie may differ from the traditional recipe.
4. Can Blueberry Pie be frozen?
Yes, Blueberry Pie can be frozen for up to 6 months. It's best to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, let the pie thaw at room temperature for a few hours and then warm it in the oven for 15-20 minutes.
5. How can I reduce the calories in Blueberry Pie?
One way to reduce the calories in Blueberry Pie is by using a lower calorie sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol instead of regular sugar. You can also use reduced-fat milk or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. Lastly, reducing the amount of pie crust or making a crustless pie can also cut down on calories.