Berry Custard Pie

It's Summer everyone and what says it better than a refreshing "berry-licious" dessert.  So, I love pies and tarts, but the idea of actually making one can be daunting.  I can't tell you how many recipes I've seen online that I've been enticed to print out with every intention of making it, but after reading the directions and thinking of all the trouble I'd have to go through, I would decide better of it and add it to my pile of scrap ideas.  Until now, when I realized there had to be an easier way!  That's when I set to work on making this sort of pie/tart hybrid.  I made this for my mom and sister's birthday party on the Fourth of July and of the 2 pies, not a crumb was left!  So for all you novice bakers out there, intimidated by all those "other recipes," I promise, this one is a piece of cake--better still, a piece of pie!

This recipe is enough for 2 pies.  First, start with the crusts.  I used Marie Callendar's frozen Pie Shells from the grocery store (available in packs of 2 in the freezer section).  I told you this would be easy!  Besides, if it's good enough for Marie, it's good enough for me!  Bake according to package directions for "Custard or Cream Filled Pies"

I also had some left over chocolate chips, so I thought I'd throw caution to the wind and add some melted chocolate to the crust.  (Melt about 1 cup of chocolate chips in microwave in 20 second intervals)  After all, chocolate makes everything better! 

After the pie crusts have baked and cooled down completely, add a layer of melted chocolate to the bottom and place them in the refrigerator to harden. 

While the crusts are setting in the refrigerator, it's time to work on the custard filling.  This was actually taken from a cream puff recipe that I've been making for years. 

You will need:
1 cup Milk
2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream
2- 3.4 oz. packages of Jell-O Vanilla Instant Pudding Mix

Whisk all your ingredients together until very well combined.

The mixture should be pretty thick already.  At this point, cover and place in refrigerator to set for an hour or 2.  If you're making this in advance, it can stay overnight in the refrigerator.

Now, it's time to prepare your berries.  I used Strawberries, Blueberries and Blackberries, but you can use any combination of berries that you like.

Rinse and drain all your berries.

Then lay them out on paper towels to soak up all the excess water.  This step is important because otherwise, you will end up with soggy pie!

Remove the stems and cut your strawberries into smaller pieces.

Okay, it's time for assembly.  Pour the custard filling into the chocolate coated pie crusts.  Top with your colorful mix of berries and serve immediately. 

So, there you have it folks!  Deliciously refreshing and so simple to make!  Enjoy.