National Blueberry Pie Day (April 28)
One weird holiday on April 28 is National Blueberry Pie Day. Check out the other weird April holidays!
National Blueberry Pie Day, celebrated on April 28th each year, is a delightful occasion that pays homage to one of America’s most cherished and iconic desserts: blueberry pie.
This day provides an opportunity to explore the rich history of blueberry pie, discover its cultural significance, learn about the health benefits of blueberries, and of course, indulge in the sweet and tangy goodness of this beloved pastry.
Join us on a journey through the world of blueberry pie, from its humble beginnings to its place at the heart of American culinary traditions.
When is National Blueberry Pie Day?
National Blueberry Pie Day takes place every year on April 28th.
What Are the Origins of National Blueberry Pie Day?
National Blueberry Pie Day, like many other food-related observances and unofficial holidays, does not have a specific individual or organization that can be credited with its invention. Instead, these types of celebrations often arise organically within communities or through shared cultural traditions.
National Blueberry Pie Day likely gained recognition and popularity over time due to the love for blueberry pie as a classic American dessert. As people began to appreciate the deliciousness of blueberry pie and its cultural significance, they likely started celebrating it on April 28th each year.
Many unofficial holidays like this are promoted and embraced by individuals, businesses, and social media, which help spread awareness and participation. Ultimately, it’s a day for people to come together and celebrate the joy of blueberry pie, and its origins are rooted in the collective appreciation for this delightful dessert.
Who Invented Blueberry Pie?
The earliest known blueberry pie recipe in print appeared in Maria Parloa’s 1872 cookbook titled “The Appledore Cook Book,” a cookbook that focused on New England cuisine. This recipe marked one of the first documented instances of blueberry pie as we know it today.
Parloa was a noted American author and cooking teacher of her time, and her cookbook was influential in shaping American culinary traditions. She was an advocate for healthy cooking and emphasized the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients in her recipes.
Her approach to cooking aligned with the broader movement in the late 19th century towards improved nutrition and home management.
Parloa began her career as a cooking teacher in the late 19th century when the field of home economics was still in its infancy. She recognized the need for formal culinary education and saw an opportunity to teach people about proper cooking techniques, nutrition, and meal planning.
Parloa established her own cooking schools in Boston and New York City. These schools were among the first of their kind in the United States and attracted students eager to learn about cooking and household management.
Maria Parloa authored several influential cookbooks, including “The Appledore Cook Book” (1872), which contained one of the earliest documented recipes for blueberry pie. Her books were well-received and widely used in American households, contributing to the standardization of recipes and cooking techniques.
Maria Parloa’s recipe likely introduced blueberry pie to a broader audience and contributed to its popularity as a classic American dessert. Over the years, variations of this recipe have emerged, with some adding spices like cinnamon or lemon zest to enhance the flavor.
The History of Blueberry Pie
The history of blueberry pie is deeply intertwined with the history of the United States, as this fruit is native to North America. Let’s delve into its fascinating origins:
1. Native American Roots:
- Blueberries have been a staple in the diets of Native American tribes for centuries. They not only enjoyed the berries fresh but also dried them for preservation and used them in various dishes.
2. Colonial Era:
- As European settlers arrived in North America, they discovered blueberries and began incorporating them into their culinary traditions. Blueberries were used in pies, puddings, and even as a key ingredient in dyes.
3. First Blueberry Pie Recipe:
- The first known recipe for blueberry pie appeared in the 1872 cookbook “The Appledore Cook Book” by Maria Parloa. This early recipe closely resembles the blueberry pies we enjoy today.
4. Iconic American Dessert:
- By the 20th century, blueberry pie had firmly established itself as an iconic American dessert. It became especially popular during the summer months when fresh blueberries were abundant.
Cultural Significance of Blueberry Pie
Blueberry pie holds a special place in American culture and traditions. Here are some reasons why it’s more than just a delicious dessert:
1. Regional Variations:
- Blueberry pie recipes vary by region, reflecting local tastes and ingredients. For example, in the northeastern United States, blueberry pie is often enjoyed with a crumb topping, while in the South, it may be served with a lattice crust.
2. Fourth of July Tradition:
- Blueberry pie is a popular choice for Fourth of July celebrations, symbolizing the patriotic colors of the United States with its deep blue filling and red crust.
3. Family Gatherings:
- Many families have cherished recipes for blueberry pie that are passed down through generations. It’s a dessert that often brings loved ones together around the dining table.
4. State Symbol:
- Maine designated the wild blueberry pie as the official state dessert in 2011, recognizing the importance of blueberries to the state’s economy and culture.
Health Benefits of Blueberries
Beyond its delicious taste and cultural significance, blueberry pie also offers several health benefits, thanks to the nutritious qualities of blueberries:
1. Antioxidant Richness:
- Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
2. Brain Health:
- Some studies suggest that the antioxidants in blueberries may support cognitive function and help improve memory and concentration.
3. Heart Health:
- Blueberries are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease due to their role in lowering blood pressure and improving cholesterol levels.
4. Fiber Content:
- Blueberries are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and can contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety.
5. Nutrient Density:
- Blueberries are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese.
What Do You Serve With Blueberry Pie?
The best way to celebrate National Blueberry Pie Day is by savoring a slice of this delectable dessert.
Whether you prefer your blueberry pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream, the sweet-tart flavor of blueberries and the flaky crust are sure to delight your taste buds.
Blueberry pie is a delightful dessert, and while vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing, there are many other accompaniments that can complement the sweet and tangy flavors of blueberry pie. Here are some tasty options to consider:
- Whipped Cream: Freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy texture and a creamy contrast to the fruity pie filling.
- Greek Yogurt: Thick and tangy Greek yogurt provides a refreshing balance to the sweetness of blueberry pie. You can sweeten it with honey or a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Lemon Sorbet: Lemon sorbet offers a zesty, citrusy contrast that pairs wonderfully with blueberries.
- Creme Fraiche: Creme fraiche is similar to sour cream but with a milder flavor. Its creamy and slightly tangy profile complements the pie’s sweetness.
- Almond or Pistachio Ice Cream: Experiment with nut-flavored ice creams to add a unique twist. Almond or pistachio ice cream can bring a delightful nuttiness to the dessert.
- Cheddar Cheese: In some regions, especially in the northeastern United States, a slice of sharp cheddar cheese is served alongside blueberry pie. The contrast of sweet and savory flavors can be surprisingly delicious.
- Fresh Berries: Garnish your blueberry pie with additional fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries to enhance the fruity experience.
- Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint or finely chopped mint leaves can add a burst of freshness and color to your dessert.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over your blueberry pie for an indulgent treat.
- Fruit Compote: Create a complementary fruit compote using fruits like peaches, apricots, or cherries, and serve it alongside or on top of the pie.
Ultimately, the choice of accompaniment depends on your personal taste and the occasion. Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a dessert experience that suits your palate and the preferences of your guests.
How to Make a Perfect Blueberry Pie
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try making your own blueberry pie at home. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
What are the ingredients for blueberry pie?
For the Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 4 cups fresh blueberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon butter
What are the directions for blueberry pie?
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Roll Out the Crust:
- On a floured surface, roll out one of the dough disks into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish. Transfer the crust to the dish.
3. Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Toss to coat the blueberries evenly.
4. Assemble the Pie:
- Pour the blueberry filling into the prepared pie crust. Dot the filling with butter.
5. Add the Top Crust:
- Roll out the second dough disk into a circle. Place it over the filling, trim any excess dough, and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
6. Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any spills. Bake for 20 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
National Blueberry Pie Day is a delightful occasion that invites us to celebrate a cherished American dessert with a rich history.
Whether you enjoy a slice from your favorite bakery or try your hand at baking a homemade blueberry pie, this day is a reminder of the simple joys of life, the cultural significance of food, and the health benefits of delicious blueberries.
So, on April 28th, savor a slice of blueberry pie and take a moment to appreciate the sweetness of tradition and the natural beauty of North America’s native fruit.
Unique Recipes for National Blueberry Pie Day
Here are some ideas of unique recipes you can try for National Blueberry Pie Day!
Mini Blueberry Tarts with Chocolate
Mini Blueberry Tarts are a delightful and elegant dessert that are perfect for any National Blueberry Pie Day occasion. These bite-sized treats are filled with juicy blueberries, decadent chocolate and nestled in a buttery, flaky pastry shell.
Gluten-Free Blueberry Lemon Ginger Galette
This rustic, free-form blueberry lemon ginger galette has all the flavour of blueberry pie without having to fuss with pastry! You can use fresh or frozen blueberries to make this gluten-free dessert for National Blueberry Pie Day. You'll love its tender crust made with almond flour and tapioca flour.
Blueberry Lemon Crumble
Blueberry Lemon Crumble is loaded with plump blueberries and lemon zest for a tart and tangy treat on National Blueberry Pie Day. The crumble topping is buttery and crisp, which makes this dessert outrageously good and easy to bake in just minutes!
7-Ingredient Blueberry Oatmeal Crumb Bars (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
Blueberry Oatmeal Crumb Bars are the loveliest treat! Enjoy them for dessert, an afternoon snack, or even breakfast on National Blueberry Pie Day! Your friends and family will go bonkers over these delicious blueberry pie bars!
Gluten-Free 3 Layer Blueberry Key Lime Cake
Gluten-Free Blueberry Key Lime Cake, super creamy, tangy and topped with vanilla blueberry topping - a yummy dessert for National Blueberry Pie Day. The buttery crust is made from scratch with just a few simple ingredients. And the zesty custard filling is made with only three ingredients. The topping is all about fresh blueberries in a blueberry sauce, hinted with lime juice, vanilla and a touch of a sweetener.
Glazed Blueberry Tartlets
These easy blueberry tartlets are layered with softened cream cheese, piled high with fresh blueberries, and drizzled with a blueberry glaze. This is a perfect National Blueberry Pie Day dessert, and it's even make-ahead!
Blueberry Puff Pastry Danish With Cream Cheese Icing
This Blueberry Danish is made with fresh blueberries, blueberry jam or blueberry preserves, and puff pastry that is flaky and buttery and drizzled with a sweet lemon cream cheese icing! A delicious treat for National Blueberry Pie Day!
Glazed Blueberry Hand Pies
Glazed Blueberry Hand Pies are a fun and easy way to have your blueberry pie on the go for National Blueberry Pie Day. Blueberry pie filling bakes inside store bought refrigerated buttermilk biscuits. Warm mini blueberry pies are finished with a sugar glaze for a homemade blueberry hot pocket!
Best Blueberry Cobbler Bars: Perfect Fruity Dessert For A Crowd!
Blueberry pie bars are loaded with blueberry pie filling and topped with a drizzle of a sweet vanilla glaze. They are great for any National Blueberry Pie Day occasion or get-together! In fact, once you serve these tasty dessert bars, everyone will want to know how to make them!
Easy Blueberry Pie with Frozen Blueberries Recipe
This easy recipe for blueberry pie with frozen blueberries has a sweet, fruity filling and a homemade flaky all-butter crust. No runny pie filling here on National Blueberry Pie Day!
Blueberry Lemon Cream Pie
The whole family will enjoy this tasty lemon cream cheese pie set in a graham cracker crust and topped with homemade blueberry topping. Give it a try on National Blueberry Pie Day!
Peach & Blueberry Pie
A simple & delicious fresh peach and blueberry pie with a crumb topping. A late National Blueberry Pie Day favorite.
Rhubarb Blueberry Pie
The best rhubarb blueberry pie! Crispy crust filled with a luscious, saucy, sweet, and tart filling, the perfect dessert recipe in spring for National Blueberry Pie Day.
Blueberry Mini Pies in the Air Fryer
For National Blueberry Pie Day, make the most delicious blueberry mini pies you have ever had in your life!
Blueberry Pie Quick Bread
Bored with the same old blueberry muffins and quick breads? Try something different on National Blueberry Pie Day with Blueberry Pie Bread — homemade blueberry pie filling swirled into the batter and topped with an almond crumble topping.
Easy Blueberry Almond Tart (Vegan)
This easy blueberry almond tart features sweet juicy berries baked over a layer of almond cream in a fuss-free, flakey puff pastry crust for a simple yet impressive vegan dessert for National Blueberry Pie Day
Blueberry Pie Fries
A fun way to make and eat blueberry pie for National Blueberry Pie Day. Everyone will love this twist on a classic seasonal summer dessert!
Blueberry Pie Martini
Blueberry Pie Martini is a decadent fresh blueberry cocktail recipe that tastes like a slice of blueberry cream pie or blueberry pie ala mode in a glass. It's the perfect National Blueberry Pie Day beverage!
Mustikkapiirakka - Finnish Blueberry Pie
Mustikkapiirakka. Does the name of this recipe throw you off? Don't worry, you don't have to be able to pronounce it to make and enjoy Mustikkapiirakka, or Finnish Blueberry Pie, on National Blueberry Pie Day
Blueberry Nutella cream pie
Need a last-minute dessert for National Blueberry Pie Day? Give this almost-no-bake blueberry Nutella cream pie a try!
Grilled cherry & blueberry galette
The beauty of a galette is that it’s pie without all the hassle. Enjoy this grilled cherry & blueberry galette for National Blueberry Pie Day!
Blueberry Pie Filling Recipe
This Homemade Blueberry Pie Filling recipe is perfect for your next pie on National Blueberry Pie Day, ice cream topping, or other blueberry baking needs. Give this delicious dessert a try today.
Pizza Ranch Dessert Pizza Recipe Blueberry Pie Copycat
This copycat Pizza Ranch Dessert Pizza Recipe for blueberry pie is the perfect dessert for National Blueberry Pie Day. It has never been easier to whip a sweet and scrumptious treat full of deliciousness.
The Best Blueberry Pie Cookies
Perfect bite sized cookies that taste like a blueberry pie! Flaky all butter pie dough filled with a homemade blueberry filling and topped with coarse sugar for extra sweetness and crunch on National Blueberry Pie Day. These cookies are melt in your mouth delicious and totally irresistible!
Italian Blueberry Crostata Recipe
This Italian blueberry crostata recipe is an easy and simple dessert for National Blueberry Pie Day. Also known as a galette, this rustic pie is made with a homemade pie crust and can be made with fresh or frozen blueberries.
Blueberry Panna Cotta Tart
With it’s layers of blueberry filling and creamy panna cotta, this tart is a elegant, refreshing choice for National Blueberry Pie Day desserts.
Blueberry Clafoutis
Blueberry Clafoutis is a classic French dessert that's made in minutes with a simple batter poured over fresh fruit and baked then served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar. With its tender texture and lightly sweet, fruit forward flavor, it's an ideal National Blueberry Pie Day treat.
Blueberry Crisp {Gluten Free Berry Crisp}
This easy blueberry crisp is an easy and delicious dessert, made with juicy blueberries, and a crunchy, butter, brown sugar, and oat topping. It’s the perfect National Blueberry Pie Day dessert, and it's so much easier than making a blueberry pie.
Blueberry Sour Cream Pie
Blueberry Sour Cream Pie – a sweet, yet tart pie made with a creamy filling, and a crumbly streusel topping. This one is always a big hit on National Blueberry Pie Day!
Blueberry Pie Ice Cream
It’s your favorite pie… in ice cream form! Blueberry Pie Ice Cream is the ultimate National Blueberry Pie Day treat. A creamy vanilla ice cream base paired with homemade blueberry pie filling and graham cracker crumbs — it’s the best kind of dessert mashup.
Apple Blueberry Pie- A Perfect Thanksgiving Dessert!
This Apple Blueberry Pie is a fun twist on a classic blueberry pie recipe for National Blueberry Pie Day. The fresh apples and blueberries are coated with cinnamon, sugar, and a touch of maple syrup.
Goldenberry & Blueberry Pie
Turn goldenberries and blueberries into a simple crumble topped pie for National Blueberry Pie Day. It’s a perfectly easy way to turn the fun fruit into a delicious dessert!
Blueberry Hand Pies
Blueberry hand pies are made with blueberry pie filling inside a flaky pie crust or refrigerated biscuit dough. This blueberry pie recipe is bursting with juicy blueberry filling that uses wild or regular blueberries, store-bought or homemade pie crust. Prep these hand pies ahead of time and freeze for National Blueberry Pie Day!
Blueberry Crumble Pie
Blueberry crumble pie is a delicious National Blueberry Pie Day dessert made with fresh or frozen blueberries and topped with a simple yet flavorful oat crumb topping.
No Bake Blueberry Cheesecake
No Bake Blueberry Cheesecake with graham cracker crust and blueberry pie filling is a rich and luscious cream cheese pie made with fresh blueberries and without Cool Whip. Try it out on National Blueberry Pie Day!
Homemade Vegan Blueberry Pie with Crumble Topping
This Homemade Vegan Blueberry Pie with golden brown Crumble Topping is simple to make, deliciously sweet and perfect for National Blueberry Pie Day. This easy-to-make dessert recipe is sure to impress both your taste buds and your guests.
Sour Cream Blueberry Pie Bars Recipe
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe to share for National Blueberry Pie Day – stop looking! You’ve found it! They are sweet with a bit of tang and, c’mon – look at them – they are so pretty!
Keto Blueberry Pie Bars - Low Carb, Sugar-Free, Gluten-Free, THM S
Keto Blueberry Pie Bars will be your new favorite low carb dessert for National Blueberry Pie Day. The sweet natural blueberry flavor paired with the homemade crumble on top is what dessert dreams are made of.
BLUEBERRY YOGURT PIE
Blueberry Yogurt Pie is the perfect dessert for National Blueberry Pie Day! A simple lemon shortbread crust filled with creamy yogurt, whipped topping and blueberries is topped off with lemon blueberry fruit spread.
Creamy Blueberry Custard Pie with Buttermilk
If you love the creamy combination of creamy custard with fresh fruit sauce topping, then this easy recipe for blueberry custard pie is for you on National Blueberry Pie Day!
Easy Grilled Blueberry Pie
Easy Grilled Blueberry Pie is perfect for National Blueberry Pie Day! See this out of the box way to bake a pie, without heating up the kitchen!
Strawberry Blueberry Pie Recipe - Perfect Summer Dessert
With fresh berries and an easy homemade pie crust, this strawberry blueberry pie recipe is a delicious National Blueberry Pie Day dessert perfect for any party. Top with some vanilla bean ice cream and you can't beat it.
Homemade Blueberry Custard Pie
Homemade Blueberry Custard Pie…fresh blueberries nestled in a creamy custard filling, it doesn’t get any better than this for National Blueberry Pie Day. Enjoy!
Blueberry Almond Crumble Galette
This rustic and easy to make Blueberry Almond Crumble Galette is a delicious dessert and a great way to enjoy fresh blueberries for National Blueberry Pie Day.
Creamy Blueberry Amaretto Pie Recipe
Creamy Blueberry Amaretto Pie for National Blueberry Pie Day - The amaretto adds a level of complexity to the filling, which is almost like blueberry cheesecake in flavour!
Blueberry Pie Fudge
The perfect combination of sweet and tart for National Blueberry Pie Day, this Blueberry Pie Fudge is made with real blueberries and creamy white chocolate for an irresistible flavor.
Grape and Blueberry Pie
This luscious juicy grape and blueberry pie with tender flaky crust is the perfect National Blueberry Pie Day dessert that you need in your life.
Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies
Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies take just 30 minutes to prepare! With a flaky crust and citrus glaze, these easy hand pies are too delicious not to try for National Blueberry Pie Day.
Homemade Blueberry Pie
There’s nothing quite like homemade Blueberry Pie, especially on National Blueberry Pie Day, so simple yet so good. Plump fresh, juicy blueberries baked to perfection inside a rich, golden flaky crust make for the best dessert. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and you’ll be in dessert heaven.
Mini Blueberry Galettes
These Mini Blueberry Galettes make the perfect quick dessert for National Blueberry Pie Day! This rustic version of a blueberry pie is easy to make and sure to impress!
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