There’s something magical about the classic tale of Snow White, and her love for baking always stood out to us. One dish that sparks curiosity is her famous gooseberry pie—a dessert that feels as enchanting as the story itself. This pie combines the tartness of gooseberries with just the right amount of sweetness, creating a flavor that’s both nostalgic and unique.
Snow White’s Gooseberry Pie Recipe
Transport yourself to the enchanting world of fairy tales with Snow White’s Gooseberry Pie Recipe. This magical dessert combines the tangy burst of gooseberries with sweet, buttery goodness, creating a pie that is as timeless as the story itself. Let us guide you step-by-step through baking this irresistible treat!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this legendary pie:
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and diced)
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
For the Gooseberry Filling:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen gooseberries (washed and stemmed)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste if gooseberries are very tart)
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For Assembly & Topping:
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Combine flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl.
- Add the cold, diced butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together but isn’t sticky.
- Divide the dough into two portions. Flatten each into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
“Pro Tip: Chill everything – even your tools – for a flaky, tender crust.”
Step 2: Make the Gooseberry Filling
- In a large bowl, toss the washed gooseberries with sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add lemon juice and stir until the berries are evenly coated.
- Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to draw out the juices.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- Roll out one disk of chilled dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle.
- Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently to fit. Trim any overhanging edges. Refrigerate the lined pie dish.
- Roll out the second disk of dough for the top crust or cut into strips for a lattice design.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Pour the prepared gooseberry filling into the chilled pie crust.
- Cover with the top crust or arrange a lattice pattern. Seal and crimp the edges as desired.
- Brush the crust with beaten egg, then sprinkle it with sugar for a golden, crunchy finish.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Place the assembled pie on a baking sheet to catch any spills.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Baking & Serving Notes
| Temperature | Baking Time | Serving Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| 375°F | 45-55 minutes | Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. |
Keep a close eye during the final 10 minutes of baking to avoid over-browning. Remove from the oven and let the pie cool for at least 2 hours—the filling will thicken as it sets.
Ingredients
To bring Snow White’s Gooseberry Pie to life, we’ll need fresh, quality ingredients. Below, we’ve listed the essentials for both the sweet-tart filling and the buttery crust that holds it all together.
For The Pie Filling
- 4 cups fresh or frozen gooseberries (rinsed and trimmed)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (cubed)
For The Pie Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water (adjust as needed for dough consistency)
Prepare these ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth baking experience. Maintaining the freshness of the gooseberries and keeping the butter cold will guarantee the pie’s signature texture and taste.
Special Tools And Equipment
To recreate Snow White’s Gooseberry Pie authentically, several key tools and equipment will ensure a smooth and enjoyable baking experience. Here’s what we need:
Tools for Preparing the Dough
- Mixing bowls: A large one for combining the dry and wet ingredients for the crust.
- Pastry cutter or fork: Essential for cutting cold butter into the flour to achieve a flaky texture.
- Rolling pin: To roll out the chilled pie dough evenly. Tip: A marble rolling pin works wonderfully to keep the dough cool.
- Plastic wrap: For wrapping the dough before chilling.
Tools for Filling and Assembly
- Colander: To rinse and drain fresh or thawed frozen gooseberries thoroughly.
- Paring knife: For trimming stems and tops off fresh gooseberries, ensuring a clean preparation.
- Zester or grater: Helps extract lemon zest for added flavor.
Baking and Finishing Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish: Choose a ceramic or glass pie dish for even heat distribution and a beautifully baked crust.
- Pie weights or dried beans: Necessary for blind baking the crust, preventing it from puffing.
- Pastry brush: For applying an egg wash to achieve a golden, glossy finish on the crust.
- Cooling rack: Ensures the pie cools evenly after baking.
Optional but Helpful Tools
- Food processor: Great for making pie dough quickly by evenly incorporating butter and flour.
- Pie crust shield or foil: Prevents the edges of the crust from over-browning while the filling cooks.
- Offset spatula: Ideal for spreading the filling evenly and handling the rolled-out dough carefully.
To make everything easy to reference, here’s a quick breakdown of the tools needed:
| Category | Tools |
|---|---|
| Dough Preparation | Mixing bowls, pastry cutter, rolling pin, plastic wrap |
| Filling Assembly | Colander, paring knife, zester |
| Baking Essentials | 9-inch pie dish, pie weights, pastry brush, cooling rack |
| Optional Tools | Food processor, pie crust shield, offset spatula |
By gathering these Special Tools And Equipment ahead of time, we ensure that every step of this enchanting recipe is seamless—from creating the buttery crust to baking the filling to perfection.
Directions
Let’s bring Snow White’s Gooseberry Pie to life with these detailed step-by-step instructions. From prepping the tart gooseberries to assembling a flaky crust, every step ensures an enchanting and delicious experience.
Prep The Gooseberries
- Wash and trim the gooseberries: Rinse 4 cups of fresh gooseberries under cold water in a colander. Use a paring knife to remove the stems and blossom ends.
- If using frozen gooseberries, allow them to thaw completely and drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery filling.
Tip: Fresh gooseberries offer the best texture, but frozen ones can work in a pinch.
Make The Pie Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 4 cups of prepared gooseberries,
- 1 cup of granulated sugar,
- 3 tablespoons of cornstarch,
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon,
- and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice.
- Toss gently until the gooseberries are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, cut into small cubes, over the mixture before assembling the pie for added richness.
Note: The cornstarch thickens the filling as it bakes, resulting in a luscious, jam-like texture.
Prepare The Pie Crust
- Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Cut in 1 cup of cold unsalted butter (cubed) using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add 5-7 tablespoons of ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just holds together.
- Split the dough into two discs. Wrap each in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll one disc to a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, leaving an inch overhang. Trim any excess dough.
Cold butter is the secret to a flaky crust—work quickly to keep the dough chilled.
Assemble The Pie
- Pour the prepared gooseberry filling evenly into the pie crust.
- Roll out the second dough disc to a 12-inch circle. Place it over the filling. Trim, fold, and crimp the edges to seal.
- Use a sharp knife to cut 4-5 slits in the top crust to vent.
- Optional: Brush the crust with an egg wash (1 large egg whisked with 1 tablespoon of water) for a glossy finish. Sprinkle with sugar for added sparkle.
Bake The Pie
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any drippings. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the vents.
| Baking Time | Temperature | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Initial High-Heat Bake | 400°F (200°C) | 20 minutes |
| Reduced Temp Bake | 350°F (175°C) | 35-40 minutes |
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the filling to set.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Snow White’s Gooseberry Pie, creating the perfect pairing and presentation adds an extra layer of magic to this enchanting dessert. Here are some of our favorite ideas for enjoying this sweet-tart treat:
1. Classic Pairings
Serve the pie warm from the oven with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of the ice cream balance the bold tartness of the gooseberries beautifully. Alternatively, dollop some lightly whipped cream on top, adding a silky richness.
2. Holiday Vibes
For festive occasions, sprinkle the pie with a dusting of powdered sugar before serving. It gives the pie a frosted, snow-kissed look – a nod to the tale of Snow White. Pair it with a warm cup of mulled cider, spiced tea, or even hot cocoa for a cozy holiday vibe.
3. Elegant Presentation
Slice the pie neatly using a serrated knife, as this cuts through the buttery crust cleanly. Plate each portion on white or pastel-hued dishes, letting the golden crust and vibrant filling shine. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a small drizzle of honey for a refined touch.
4. Crowd Pleasers
If you’re hosting a party, consider serving mini gooseberry hand pies. Use the same recipe to create individual portions. These are easy to pick up and enjoy, making them perfect for gatherings or potlucks. Arrange them on a rustic wooden platter, and offer dipping sides like caramel sauce or lemon glaze.
5. Pairing with Beverages
Here’s a quick beverage-pairing guide for different occasions:
| Occasion | Beverage Pairing | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Afternoon Dessert | Black Tea with Honey | Highlights the tartness of the gooseberries, softening it with a floral note. |
| Winter Celebration | Mulled Wine or Spiced Cider | Adds warmth and spice, complementing the pie’s seasonal charm. |
| Light Summer Treat | Iced Lemonade or Prosecco | The zestiness enhances the fresh fruit flavors of the filling. |
6. Storage Serving Tips
If you have leftovers, store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat individual slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to restore its flaky crust and gooey filling. Serve again with a fresh topping of ice cream or cream for a just-baked feel.
Make-Ahead Instructions And Storage Tips
When preparing Snow White’s Gooseberry Pie, there are several steps you can take to make ahead, ensuring the pie remains fresh, flaky, and delicious when served. Additionally, proper storage will preserve its enchanting flavors for as long as possible.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the pie crust in advance
- The pie crust can be made up to 2 days ahead. After mixing and wrapping the dough tightly in plastic wrap, refrigerate it. When you’re ready to use, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to make rolling easier.
- For longer storage, freeze the dough. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight before use.
- Gooseberry filling prep
- If using fresh gooseberries, wash and trim them a day or two before assembling the pie. Store the prepped gooseberries in an airtight container in the fridge.
- The filling mixture (gooseberries, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and lemon juice) can be prepped up to 24 hours ahead. Store it in a sealed, non-metallic container in the refrigerator to prevent any unwanted flavor alterations.
- Fully assembled pie
- You can assemble the entire pie (crust and filling) a day in advance. Once assembled, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge while preheating the oven to bring it closer to room temperature for even baking.
Storage Tips
- Leftover Pie
- Once baked, let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling process ensures the filling sets properly and prevents condensation.
- Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing the baked pie
- For longer storage, you can freeze the fully baked pie. Wrap the cooled pie in a double layer of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
- Label it with the date and freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
- Reheating instructions for leftovers
- To reheat and maintain that freshly-baked quality, warm the slices in the oven rather than a microwave. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the slices on a baking sheet, and heat for 10-15 minutes.
- For a whole pie, reheat for 20-25 minutes in the same preheated oven.
| Storage Method | Temperature | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated pie crust | 35°F to 40°F | Up to 2 days | Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. |
| Frozen pie crust | Below 0°F | Up to 3 months | Wrap first with plastic wrap, then foil to prevent freezer burn. |
| Assembled unbaked pie | 35°F to 40°F | 1 day | Keep covered with plastic wrap or foil. |
| Refrigerated baked pie | 35°F to 40°F | Up to 4 days | Allow to cool completely before refrigerating. |
| Frozen baked pie | Below 0°F | Up to 2 months | Wrap once cooled and label for date tracking. |
Pro Tip: Always use high-quality airtight containers or wrap the pie tightly to lock in the aroma and prevent it from absorbing other flavors while stored.
Conclusion
Snow White’s Gooseberry Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a magical blend of tradition, flavor, and nostalgia. By following the recipe and tips we’ve shared, you can bring a touch of fairy-tale charm to your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a cozy treat, this pie is sure to delight with its perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. Let’s keep the magic alive, one slice at a time!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Snow White’s Gooseberry Pie unique?
Snow White’s Gooseberry Pie is a delightful blend of tart gooseberries and sweet flavors, paired with a buttery, flaky crust. It’s known for its nostalgic, fairytale charm and unique flavor that stands out among traditional fruit pies.
Can I use frozen gooseberries for the recipe?
Yes, frozen gooseberries can be used if fresh ones are unavailable. Be sure to thaw and drain them before use to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
How can I ensure a flaky pie crust?
The key to a flaky crust is keeping the butter and water cold. Also, avoid overworking the dough and always chill it before rolling.
What tools are essential for making the pie?
You’ll need basic baking tools such as a mixing bowl, rolling pin, pastry cutter, 9-inch pie dish, and pie weights. Optional tools like a food processor or pie crust shield can make the process easier.
Can I make the pie crust in advance?
Yes, the pie crust can be prepared up to two days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, until ready to use.
What are the best serving suggestions for this pie?
Serve Snow White’s Gooseberry Pie warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. For special occasions, dust it with powdered sugar or add a garnish of fresh mint.
How should the leftovers be stored?
Cool the pie completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven for the best texture.
Can the pie be frozen?
Yes, the entire pie or just the crust can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or baking.
How long does it take to bake the pie?
The pie typically bakes for about 45-50 minutes at the specified temperature, but check for a golden crust and bubbling filling to ensure it’s done.
What beverages pair best with the pie?
Pair the pie with vanilla ice cream and hot tea, mulled cider, or spiced wine for festive occasions. Black tea also works well for a simple pairing.