Mary Berry Apple and Pear Pie

Mary Berry’s Apple and Pear Pie is a delightful twist on the classic fruit pie, combining the natural sweetness of pears with the tartness of apples. Encased in a buttery, flaky shortcrust pastry, this comforting dessert is perfect for autumn evenings, Sunday lunches, or any special occasion.

What Is Mary Berry Apple and Pear Pie?

Mary Berry’s Apple and Pear Pie is a traditional British fruit pie made with soft, spiced apples and juicy pears baked inside a golden, crisp pastry crust. The natural flavors of the fruit are enhanced with cinnamon and brown sugar, making it a deliciously rich and comforting dessert.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Vegetarian Quiche
• Mary Berry Blackcurrant Pie
• Mary Berry Chocolate Chip Cake
• Mary Berry Pear Upside Down Cake

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• A perfect balance of tart apples and sweet pears.
• Crispy, golden shortcrust pastry for a flaky texture.
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
• Delicious served warm with cream, ice cream, or custard.
• A great way to use seasonal apples and pears.

Ingredients Needed for Mary Berry Apple and Pear Pie

For the Shortcrust Pastry:

• 250g (2 cups) plain flour
• 125g (½ cup) cold unsalted butter (cubed)
• 2 tbsp caster sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 3-4 tbsp cold water
• A pinch of salt

For the Apple and Pear Filling:

• 3 large apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
• 2 large pears (peeled, cored, and sliced)
• 75g (⅓ cup) light brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornflour (to thicken)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)

For Assembling the Pie:

• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• 20cm (8-inch) pie dish
• Fork or pastry cutter
• Baking parchment
• Baking beans (or dried rice)

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Apple and Pear Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Shortcrust Pastry

• In a large bowl, rub the cold butter into the flour using your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs.
• Stir in the caster sugar and a pinch of salt.
• Add the egg yolk and cold water gradually, mixing until a dough forms.
• Shape into a ball, wrap in cling film, and chill for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple and Pear Filling

• In a bowl, combine the sliced apples, pears, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
• Sprinkle in the cornflour and mix well to coat the fruit.

Step 3: Roll Out the Pastry

• Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.
• Roll out two-thirds of the pastry on a floured surface and line a 20cm pie dish.
• Trim any excess and prick the base with a fork.

Step 4: Blind Bake the Pastry

• Line the pastry with baking parchment and baking beans.
• Bake for 12 minutes, remove the parchment and beans, and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 5: Fill and Assemble the Pie

• Spoon the apple and pear filling into the pre-baked pastry case.
• Roll out the remaining one-third of the pastry and lay it over the filling, sealing the edges.
• Cut small slits on top to allow steam to escape.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

• Brush the pie with beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes until the pastry is golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

• Allow the pie to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
• Serve warm with custard, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream.

What to Serve With Mary Berry Apple and Pear Pie

• Vanilla custard – a traditional pairing.
• Whipped cream – light and airy complement.
• Vanilla or caramel ice cream – for extra indulgence.
• A drizzle of honey or caramel sauce – enhances the sweetness.
• A dusting of icing sugar – for an elegant touch.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Apple and Pear Pie

• Chill the pastry before rolling to prevent shrinkage.
• Blind bake the crust to keep it crisp and avoid sogginess.
• Taste the filling before baking and adjust the sugar if needed.
• Brush the pastry with egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.
• Let the pie cool slightly before cutting to allow the filling to set properly.

What Are Variations of Mary Berry Apple and Pear Pie?

• Spiced Apple and Pear Pie: Add nutmeg and cloves for extra warmth.
• Crumble Topping Pie: Replace the top crust with a buttery crumble topping.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour for the pastry.
• Lattice Pie: Cut strips of pastry and weave them for a beautiful lattice top.
• No-Bake Apple and Pear Pie: Use a biscuit crust instead of shortcrust pastry for a simpler version.

How Do I Store Mary Berry Apple and Pear Pie?

• Refrigerate leftovers: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for later: Wrap in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in the oven: Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 10 minutes until warm.

How Can I Reheat Apple and Pear Pie Without Making It Soggy?

• Oven method: Reheat at 160°C (320°F) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispness.
• Air fryer method: Heat at 160°C (320°F) for 5-7 minutes for a quick, crisp reheating.
• Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soft and soggy.

How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?

• Use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Reduce sugar slightly to cut down on sweetness.
• Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
• Add more fresh fruit for natural sweetness.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving – Based on 8 Slices)

• Calories: 350
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 4g

FAQs

How Do I Prevent My Apple and Pear Pie from Being Watery?

To prevent a watery pie, use cornflour (cornstarch) to thicken the filling and allow the fruit to release excess juices before baking. Tossing the apple and pear slices in cornflour helps absorb extra moisture and creates a firmer filling.

Can I Use Puff Pastry Instead of Shortcrust Pastry?

Yes, puff pastry can be used for a lighter, flakier crust. Ensure the edges are well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. Puff pastry works best as a top crust rather than the base.

What Are the Best Apples to Use for Apple and Pear Pie?

The best apples for pie are Granny Smith, Braeburn, or Honeycrisp, as they hold their shape well when baked and balance the sweetness of the pears. Avoid overly soft apples like Red Delicious, which can turn mushy.

Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?

Yes, this pie can be made a day ahead and stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, refrigerate it and reheat it before serving. The unbaked pie can also be frozen for up to 2 months and baked straight from the freezer.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Apple and Pear Pie is a classic British dessert that is sweet, tart, and absolutely delicious. The buttery, flaky crust pairs beautifully with the juicy apple and pear filling, making this a perfect dessert for any occasion. Try this simple and flavorful recipe today and enjoy a homemade pie that’s full of nostalgia and tradition!

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