Mary Berry's Apple And Pear Pie Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Apple and Pear Pie is a delightful and comforting dessert that showcases the natural sweetness and tartness of both apples and pears. Known for her traditional British baking style, Mary Berry’s recipe combines these two fruits in a way that makes each bite a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The apples contribute a bit of tang, while the pears add a subtle sweetness and softness. Together, they create a perfect filling for a buttery, flaky pastry crust.

What sets this pie apart from other apple pies is the thoughtful balance of flavors. The apple’s acidity helps balance out the pear’s sweetness, making for a more complex and nuanced filling. Additionally, Mary Berry’s recipe incorporates just the right amount of spices to bring out the best in these fruits, without overwhelming them. This pie has all the hallmarks of a traditional British dessert – simple, hearty, and comforting – but with a twist that keeps it fresh and exciting.

Whether you’re baking it for a special family gathering or simply to enjoy a slice on a cozy afternoon, this Apple and Pear Pie is a recipe that delivers on taste and nostalgia. The pastry is melt-in-your-mouth tender, the filling is rich and flavorful, and the final product is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Mary Berry’s Apple And Pear Pie Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Apple and Pear Pie, you will need the following ingredients:

For The Pastry

250g plain flour – A staple in most pastry recipes, plain flour gives the crust the right texture for holding the filling.
125g chilled butter – The key to a flaky, melt-in-your-mouth pastry. The butter should be cold to create layers.
1 egg yolk – This helps bind the pastry together and adds richness.
2-3 tablespoons cold water – To bring the dough together. The exact amount depends on how dry the mixture is.
A pinch of salt – To enhance the flavor of the pastry.

For The Filling

3 medium apples (such as Bramley or a cooking variety) – Bramley apples are great for pies because they hold their shape and provide a nice balance of sweet and sour.
3 medium pears (like Conference or Comice) – Pears add sweetness and a delicate flavor to the filling.
75g caster sugar – This amount adds sweetness without overpowering the natural flavor of the fruits.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – The acidity of lemon juice helps to balance the sweetness and keeps the fruits from browning.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Cinnamon pairs wonderfully with both apples and pears, offering warmth and depth to the filling.
1 tablespoon cornflour – This will help thicken the juices from the fruit as the pie bakes.
A pinch of salt – To enhance all the flavors and help bring out the natural sweetness of the fruits.

For Glazing

1 tablespoon milk or egg wash – This is brushed onto the pastry to give it a golden, glossy finish after baking.

Equipment Needed

Making Mary Berry’s Apple and Pear Pie requires just a few essential pieces of equipment, all of which are common in most kitchens:

A large mixing bowl – For combining the ingredients for both the pastry and the filling.
A rolling pin – For rolling out the pastry dough to the desired thickness.
A 23cm (9-inch) pie dish – This is the ideal size for this recipe. It allows the pie to bake evenly and gives enough room for a generous filling.
A sharp knife and a chopping board – To peel, core, and chop the apples and pears.
A pastry brush – To apply the egg wash or milk for glazing the top of the pie.
Baking parchment – To line the pie dish for easy removal of the pie after baking.
A baking tray – To catch any juices that may bubble over the sides of the pie during baking.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Apple And Pear Pie

Step 1: Prepare The Pastry

In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour and a pinch of salt. Add the chilled butter, and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
Add the egg yolk, followed by 2 tablespoons of cold water. Mix gently to form a dough, adding the third tablespoon of water if needed to bring everything together.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently until smooth. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.

Step 2: Prepare The Filling

Peel, core, and chop the apples and pears into bite-sized chunks.
In a separate bowl, toss the chopped fruit with the lemon juice to prevent browning.
Add the caster sugar, ground cinnamon, cornflour, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together to coat the fruit evenly.

Step 3: Roll Out The Pastry

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F.
Remove the pastry from the fridge. On a lightly floured surface, roll out two-thirds of the dough to fit the base and sides of your pie dish. Make sure the dough is about 3mm thick.
Gently transfer the pastry into the pie dish, pressing it into the edges. Trim any excess pastry.

Step 4: Assemble The Pie

Pour the prepared fruit filling into the pastry-lined pie dish, spreading it evenly.
Roll out the remaining third of the dough to form the top crust. You can make a full crust or create a lattice pattern for a decorative touch.
Place the top crust over the pie and press the edges together to seal. Crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork to ensure the crust stays in place.
Use a sharp knife to make a few slits in the top of the pie to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 5: Glaze The Pie

Brush the top of the pie with a little milk or an egg wash (a beaten egg with a splash of water) to give it a beautiful golden finish.

Step 6: Bake

Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the filling is bubbling through the vents.
Let the pie cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set.

Tips And Tricks

Chill the dough: It’s essential to chill the pastry dough before rolling it out. This helps prevent the butter from melting too quickly while baking, which could result in a soggy crust.
Fruit variety: Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Bramley or Granny Smith and sweet, juicy pears like Comice or Conference. This combination of fruits provides the perfect contrast of flavors.
Avoid a soggy bottom: To prevent the bottom crust from becoming soggy, sprinkle a thin layer of semolina, cornmeal, or ground almonds on the base before adding the fruit filling.
Lattice top: For a more decorative pie, roll out the top pastry and cut it into strips to form a lattice pattern. This not only looks beautiful but also allows the filling to show through.
Serve with cream or custard: Mary Berry’s Apple and Pear Pie is wonderful on its own, but it’s even better served with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a generous pour of custard.

Mary Berry’s Apple and Pear Pie is a true celebration of the comforting flavors of traditional British baking. With its buttery, flaky pastry and sweet, spiced filling of apples and pears, this pie is sure to bring warmth to any occasion. The recipe is straightforward enough for novice bakers but offers plenty of room for creativity with the decoration. Whether you serve it for a special family gathering or enjoy it with a cup of tea, this pie is a wonderful treat that never goes out of style. With a few simple ingredients and some thoughtful preparation, you’ll create a dessert that captures the essence of homemade comfort in every bite.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Apple And Pear Pie

Mary Berry’s Apple and Pear Pie is a classic dessert that combines the sweet, crisp flavors of apples with the subtle, mellow sweetness of pears. It’s a comforting dessert, perfect for any occasion. While the original recipe is already delicious, there are several easy and creative variations you can make to put your unique spin on this timeless dish.

Spiced Version:

If you enjoy a little heat with your sweets, try adding some warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves. These spices pair beautifully with the fruity filling and bring out the natural sweetness of the apples and pears. A dash of ginger or cardamom can also be added for an extra layer of flavor. You can even experiment with a pinch of allspice for a deeper, more complex taste.
Add a Crumble Topping:

For those who prefer a bit of crunch, consider swapping the traditional pie crust for a crumbly topping. A mixture of butter, sugar, flour, and oats will give your pie a rustic, comforting finish. You can also stir in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, for additional texture and flavor.
Almond Paste Filling:

To add a rich, nutty element to the pie, you can incorporate almond paste into the filling. The smoothness and sweetness of almond paste elevate the overall flavor profile, making each bite extra indulgent. Simply mix almond paste with a little sugar and an egg, then swirl it into the fruit filling before assembling the pie.
Berry Addition:

For a twist on the traditional apple and pear combo, why not toss in a handful of berries? Raspberries, blackberries, or even cranberries add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the apples and pears. You could either fold the berries into the fruit mixture or layer them on top for a pop of color and flavor.
Caramelized Filling:

For an extra depth of flavor, try caramelizing the apples and pears before adding them to the pie. Gently cook the fruit in a pan with some sugar and butter until they turn golden brown and start to soften. This process brings out the natural sugars in the fruit and gives the pie a rich, toffee-like undertone.
Add a Lattice Crust:

Instead of using a solid top crust, opt for a beautiful lattice crust for a more elegant presentation. The woven design adds a touch of sophistication, allowing the fruit filling to peek through. This variation is especially appealing if you want to make a pie that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

These variations not only enhance the flavor but also give you the flexibility to make the pie your own based on personal taste preferences or dietary needs. Each small tweak can make a world of difference!

Storing Leftovers

After the last slice of Mary Berry’s Apple and Pear Pie has been enjoyed, you’ll want to store the leftovers properly to keep them fresh and delicious. Proper storage can prolong the shelf life of your pie and prevent it from becoming soggy or stale.

Room Temperature Storage:

If you plan on eating the leftovers within the next 1-2 days, it’s fine to store the pie at room temperature. Simply cover the pie with a clean tea towel or plastic wrap, ensuring it’s tightly sealed to prevent air from getting in. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The crust will stay crisp, and the filling will remain fresh for a short period.
Refrigeration:

For longer storage (3-4 days), it’s best to refrigerate the pie. After the pie has cooled completely, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to protect it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge. While refrigeration may soften the crust slightly, it will preserve the freshness of the fruit filling.
Freezing:

If you want to store the pie for an extended period, freezing is a great option. To freeze the pie, first allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the pie whole or in individual slices. For best results, consume the pie within 1-2 months. To reheat, bake the pie from frozen at a low temperature (around 160°C/325°F) until heated through, or thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating:

If you’re craving a warm slice of pie, reheating is easy! Place individual slices or the whole pie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Reheat it in an oven preheated to around 180°C/350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. You can also microwave individual slices, but be cautious as this can sometimes make the crust soggy.

Taking care in storing your pie ensures that every bite tastes just as fresh as the first, even days later.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Apple And Pear Pie?

Mary Berry’s Apple and Pear Pie is a versatile dessert that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it suitable for any occasion. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside this delicious pie:

Fresh Cream or Whipped Cream:

The classic pairing with fruit pies is a dollop of fresh cream or whipped cream. The richness and smoothness of the cream complement the sweetness and slight tartness of the apples and pears. For an added twist, infuse the cream with vanilla or cinnamon for extra flavor.
Vanilla Ice Cream:

Another indulgent side to serve with this pie is a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The coldness of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm pie, creating a delightful textural experience. You could also try cinnamon or caramel-flavored ice cream for a more decadent touch.
Custard:

A rich, silky custard is the perfect accompaniment to a fruit pie like this one. The creaminess of the custard pairs harmoniously with the soft fruit filling, and the comforting warmth enhances the cozy vibe of the dessert. You can make your own custard from scratch or use a store-bought version for convenience.
Cheese:

For a savory contrast, serve your apple and pear pie with a small portion of cheese. A sharp cheddar or a tangy goat cheese creates an intriguing balance with the sweet fruit filling. The saltiness of the cheese enhances the pie’s natural sweetness and adds a new dimension to the flavor profile.
Berries or Fruit Compote:

Fresh berries or a simple fruit compote can elevate your dessert. Try serving the pie with a handful of fresh raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a pop of color and extra freshness. Alternatively, a spoonful of mixed berry compote adds depth and layers of flavor.
Tea or Coffee:

To round off your dessert experience, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with your pie. A strong black tea like Earl Grey or a spiced chai complements the warmth of the pie perfectly. For coffee lovers, a rich espresso or a creamy cappuccino can balance the sweetness of the dessert with its robust flavor.

These pairings can turn your simple pie into a more sophisticated and satisfying treat, making it perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or casual family gatherings.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Apple and Pear Pie is a dessert that never goes out of style, combining the best of both worlds with the crispness of apples and the sweetness of pears. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the many fun variations, the end result is always a delightful treat. With its versatility, this pie can be customized to suit any palate, from spiced-up versions to crumble toppings, making it ideal for any occasion.

Properly storing leftovers ensures that you can enjoy this pie for days, and pairing it with fresh cream, ice cream, or even cheese elevates it to new heights. Whether served warm or cold, the pie remains a comforting and indulgent treat that’s sure to impress friends and family alike.

In the end, Mary Berry’s Apple and Pear Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of comfort, nostalgia, and flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Apple And Pear Pie?

To make Mary Berry’s apple and pear pie, you will need the following ingredients: 2 large cooking apples, 2 large ripe pears, 200g (7oz) plain flour, 100g (3½oz) butter, 50g (1¾oz) caster sugar, 1 egg (for glazing), and a pinch of salt. You may also need a little water to bind the dough, depending on the consistency. Optionally, you can add a dash of cinnamon or mixed spice for extra flavor.

How Do I Prepare The Filling For Mary Berry’s Apple And Pear Pie?

To prepare the filling for Mary Berry’s apple and pear pie, peel, core, and chop the apples and pears into small chunks. Then, place the fruit into a bowl and sprinkle with sugar, and optionally, some ground cinnamon or nutmeg for additional flavor. Toss the fruit well to ensure it is coated evenly. You can also cook the fruit slightly in a pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes to soften it before filling the pie, although this step is not always necessary.

Can I Make The Pastry For Mary Berry’s Apple And Pear Pie In Advance?

Yes, you can make the pastry for Mary Berry’s apple and pear pie in advance. Prepare the dough by rubbing together the flour and butter until it resembles breadcrumbs, then mix in the sugar and a pinch of salt. Add cold water until the dough comes together. Wrap it in cling film and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before using. You can also prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge overnight for convenience.

Mary Berry’s Apple And Pear Pie Recipe [GUIDE]