The sweet aroma of fresh berries is one of life’s little joys, and when you combine that with a crunchy golden crust, magic happens. That’s exactly the experience you’ll embrace with this delightful Mosaic Pie, a colorful treat that’s destined to steal the show at your next gathering. Inspired by the vibrant patterns of stained glass, this multi-flavored pie features a delightful trio of blueberries, strawberries, and a unique sweet-salty honey filling that dances on your palate.
After a week of the same old takeout, I was determined to create something exciting yet simple—a dessert that brings people together. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this stunning pie more than meets the mark. Even better, you can customize the fruits according to the season or your mood! With easy prep that can accommodate gluten-free options, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bring a slice of joy into your kitchen with this Mosaic Pie. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why will you love this Mosaic Pie?
Irresistible Presentation: This Mosaic Pie is a feast for the eyes, resembling a stunning stained glass window with its vibrant colors. Perfect for impressing guests at any gathering!
Effortlessly Delicious: Enjoy a flavor explosion of blueberries, strawberries, and a unique sweet-salty honey filling—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Easy-to-Make: The straightforward process makes it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers alike. You’ll have this masterpiece ready in no time!
Gluten-Free Option: Use store-bought gluten-free pie dough to accommodate different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile Fruit Choices: Customize with seasonal fruits or even mix in custard for a new take each time.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: The combination of textures and flavors ensures this pie will be the highlight of any dessert table!
Mosaic Pie Ingredients
For the Pie Dough
• Pie Dough – Use homemade or store-bought for a gluten-free option.
For the Fruit Fillings
• Fresh Blueberries – Bursting with flavor; substitute with raspberries for a different taste.
• Fresh Strawberries – Sweet and juicy; try cherries if you want a change.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the fruit; adjust according to the sweetness of the berries.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the filling; perfect for a smooth texture.
• Pinch of Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the pie.
• Lemon Juice – Adds brightness; essential for balancing flavors.
For the Salty Honey Filling
• Large Egg Yolk – Acts as a binding agent for depth of flavor.
• Honey – Sweetens the filling; brings a lovely richness to the pie.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides tenderness and a rich mouthfeel.
• Heavy Cream – Adds a luxurious richness; substitute with milk for a lighter option.
• Cornmeal – Introduces texture; omit if you don’t have it on hand.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Balances the sweetness nicely; replace with lemon juice if needed.
• Vanilla – Enhances the overall flavor—always a great addition!
Prepare to indulge in the delightful layers of this Mosaic Pie that’s both beautiful and mouthwatering!
How to Make Mosaic Pie
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Prepare the Fruit Fillings: In separate pots, cook the blueberries and strawberries with granulated sugar until thickened, stirring occasionally for about 10-15 minutes. Allow to cool completely.
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Mix the Salty Honey Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, honey, unsalted butter, heavy cream, cornmeal, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla until smooth. Set aside for later.
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Roll Out the Pie Dough: On a floured surface, roll out your pie dough, then use a cookie cutter to cut out 2-inch rounds. Chill the rounds in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C), ensuring it’s nice and hot for a perfect bake.
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Assemble the Mini Hand Pies: Place a spoonful of cooled blueberry filling in the center of each round. Seal the edges by crimping with a fork, then arrange the filled rounds in a greased pie plate.
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Add the Salty Honey Filling: Spoon the reserved salty honey filling into the unfilled rounds, ensuring each is generously filled, then gently smooth the tops.
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Bake: Bake the pie for 50-60 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the fillings are bubbly—trust your nose, and watch for that delicious golden color!
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Cool: Allow the Mosaic Pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra special touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Mosaic Pie mini hand pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the fruit fillings up to 24 hours in advance; simply cook the blueberries and strawberries with sugar as directed, cool them completely, and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mix the salty honey filling ahead and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the dough and assemble the hand pies with the prepared fillings. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade pastries with minimal effort, all while maintaining the freshness and vibrant flavors of the Mosaic Pie.
How to Store and Freeze Mosaic Pie
Fridge: Store leftover Mosaic Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked mini hand pies on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. They can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen hand pies overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Room Temperature: If you plan to serve the Mosaic Pie the same day, it can sit at room temperature for up to 4 hours without losing quality.
Expert Tips for Mosaic Pie
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Cook Fruit First: Cooking your blueberries and strawberries beforehand helps avoid excess juice, ensuring a perfectly baked Mosaic Pie.
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Seal Carefully: Make sure to seal the edges of your mini hand pies tightly to prevent any fillings from leaking during baking.
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Chill the Dough: Keep the pie dough chilled before baking. This helps maintain its structure and ensures a flaky crust.
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Watch Baking Time: Ovens vary—keep an eye on your pie and look for a golden crust and bubbly fillings, rather than relying solely on time.
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Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheating in the oven helps maintain the texture of the Mosaic Pie.
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Mix Up Fruits: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonal fruits in your Mosaic Pie; it’s a fun way to add your personal touch!
What to Serve with Mosaic Pie?
Imagine the delightful balance of flavors and textures as you create the perfect meal to accompany your stunning Mosaic Pie.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the fruity flavors, making each bite of pie even more indulgent.
- Fresh Berry Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal berries tossed with mint enhances the pie’s fruity notes and brings a burst of freshness to your plate.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream elevates the Mosaic Pie, offering a sweet, creamy complement to the tangy fruit.
- Lemonade: A glass of chilled lemonade brings a zesty brightness that perfectly contrasts the sweet pie, ensuring a refreshing sip after each sweet bite.
- Pineapple Sorbet: This refreshing sorbet offers a mango-like freshness, seamlessly balancing the pie’s richness and reviving your palate with its icy texture.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A warm chocolate sauce drizzled over each piece provides an unexpected yet delicious depth of flavor, harmonizing beautifully with the honey filling.
- Savory Cheese Plate: A platter of tangy goat cheese and sharp cheddar with crackers offers a rich counterpoint to the pie’s sweetness, making for a delightful cheese and dessert pairing.
- Iced Herbal Tea: A glass of herbal tea, such as chamomile or hibiscus, pairs well with sweet desserts, enhancing the Mosaic Pie experience with calming notes.
- Shortbread Cookies: Serve alongside gently sweet shortbread cookies for a delightful crunch and additional layer of flavor and texture as you savor the pie.
- Nutty Granola: A scoop of nutty granola adds a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, fruity filling of the Mosaic Pie, making for a fun textural experience.
Mosaic Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative and adjust this recipe to match your taste preferences and dietary needs!
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Mixed Fruit: Substitute blueberries and strawberries with a combination of raspberries, blackberries, or peaches for a different flavor profile. Each fruit adds a unique twist to this delightful pie!
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Custard Filling: Incorporate a single custard filling, such as pumpkin or chocolate, in place of fruit. This adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the flaky crust.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie dough to cater to gluten sensitivities while still enjoying the scrumptious flavors. It’s just as easy and delicious!
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the fruit fillings for a warm, aromatic flavor boost. The spices can elevate the overall experience!
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Creamy Variation: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option that brings a subtle tropical flavor to the pie. It keeps everything rich and satisfying.
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Zesty Kick: Introduce orange or lime zest to the fruit fillings for a refreshing and bright flavor. Just a teaspoon can make a noticeable difference!
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Texture Boost: Toss in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and nuttiness in the sweet-salty honey filling. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy contrasting textures.
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Sugar-Free Option: Experiment with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave instead of granulated sugar to create a healthier dessert. Adjust the quantities to match your sweetness preference.
Mosaic Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best fresh blueberries and strawberries?
Absolutely! Look for berries that are firm to the touch and free from any dark spots or mold. The blueberries should be deep blue with a slight bloom, while strawberries should be bright red and fragrant. Avoid any that are overly soft or have excess juice leaking, as these may be past their prime.
How long will leftover Mosaic Pie last in the fridge?
Very! You can store the leftover Mosaic Pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it covered, as this will help maintain its texture and prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze Mosaic Pie, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! I recommend freezing the unbaked mini hand pies for the best results. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed!
What should I do if my pie filling is too runny?
In case your filling turns out runny, don’t worry! Try cooking the fruit fillings on the stove for an additional 5-10 minutes over medium heat until they thicken. If it’s already in the pie, you can place it back into the oven for another 10-15 minutes, which often helps set the filling before serving.
Is this Mosaic Pie suitable for those with allergies?
Great question! This Mosaic Pie contains common allergens like butter, eggs, and wheat (if using traditional dough). For a gluten-free adaptation, use store-bought gluten-free pie dough. Always consult with your guests about any specific allergies and consider alternative ingredients if needed, such as substituting the cream with a non-dairy milk option.
How can I customize the fruits in the Mosaic Pie?
Definitely! You can let your creativity shine by mixing in seasonal fruits. For instance, swap blueberries with blackberries, or consider stone fruits like peaches or cherries. If you’re in the mood for a twist, you can also use a single custard filling along with the fruits but remember to limit to just one type for the right texture balance!
Mosaic Pie: Colorful Flavor Explosion for Your Dessert Table
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Fruit Fillings: In separate pots, cook the blueberries and strawberries with granulated sugar until thickened, stirring occasionally for about 10-15 minutes. Allow to cool completely.
- Mix the Salty Honey Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, honey, unsalted butter, heavy cream, cornmeal, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla until smooth. Set aside for later.
- Roll Out the Pie Dough: On a floured surface, roll out your pie dough, then use a cookie cutter to cut out 2-inch rounds. Chill the rounds in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C), ensuring it's nice and hot for a perfect bake.
- Assemble the Mini Hand Pies: Place a spoonful of cooled blueberry filling in the center of each round. Seal the edges by crimping with a fork, then arrange the filled rounds in a greased pie plate.
- Add the Salty Honey Filling: Spoon the reserved salty honey filling into the unfilled rounds, ensuring each is generously filled, then gently smooth the tops.
- Bake: Bake the pie for 50-60 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the fillings are bubbly—trust your nose, and watch for that delicious golden color!
- Cool: Allow the Mosaic Pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to let the flavors meld beautifully.