Vegan Blueberry Galette

Blueberry pie is trying too hard. I'm not even really sure what it is about blueberry pie that screams "TRY HARD" but there's something. Does the pie require too much work? Is the painstaking arrangement of the crust the real trial? Is the copious amount of filling to blame? Either way, this Vegan Blueberry Galette is 100% fuss-free. Single piecrust? Check. Appropriate amount of filling? Yes. Easy to crimp? Indeed. Everyone sign up now.

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The Peasant's Pie

I'll be completely honest in stating that I have no idea where the galette came from or who invented it. It could have been a simple, happy accident but I like to think it has a dramatic origin story fit for a Marvel superhero. That said, humbler beginnings are far more likely. Desserts like this Vegan Blueberry Galette often come from times of shortage. Only enough flour for a bottom crust? No problem. Berry pizza is better than straight up pie anyway.

Perhaps this is exactly what occurred! A lowly kitchen maid was tasked with making a blueberry pie for the duke and duchess who ran the house she worked in. As she was preparing her ingredients, the family dog/cat snatched her rolled dough off of the work surface and dragged it all over the dusty floor. Following the debacle she had only enough flour for a single piecrust. She filled it and baked it as she would a pie and plated it in beautiful presentation fit for her superiors. Long story short, they loved it and the galette was born. The end.

Vegan Blueberry Galette Ingredients

For the Crust

• All-purpose flour provides structure and texture, helping to bind the other ingredients together. All-purpose flour is versatile and readily available, making it a common choice for pie crusts. It contributes to the flakiness and stability of the crust when combined with the fat.
• Sugar is included in the galette crust to add a touch of sweetness. Although it is a small amount, it contributes to the overall flavor and helps balance any acidity or bitterness in the filling. The sugar also aids in browning and caramelization during baking, resulting in a golden and flavorful crust.
• Salt is an essential ingredient in the galette crust as it enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the filling. It also helps strengthen the gluten structure in the dough, resulting in a more stable and elastic crust.
• Cinnamon is an optional ingredient that can be added to the galette crust to infuse a subtle warmth and depth of flavor. It complements various fruit fillings commonly used in galettes, such as apples or berries. The cinnamon adds a hint of spice that enhances the overall taste experience.
• Non-hydrogenated shortening or vegan butter serves as the fat component in the crust. It provides richness, flavor, and a desirable texture to the galette crust. The solid fat, when combined with the flour, creates layers in the dough that result in a flaky and tender crust once baked.
• Ice water is necessary to bring the galette crust together and ensure the dough has the right consistency. The cold water helps keep the fat in a solid state, preventing it from melting and compromising the texture of the crust. Adding water in small increments and using ice water helps maintain a lower temperature, resulting in a more tender and flaky crust.

For the Filling

• Blueberries are the star ingredient in a vegan blueberry galette filling. They provide a burst of sweet and tangy flavor, as well as a vibrant color. Whether fresh or frozen, blueberries add a delightful juiciness and texture to the filling. Fresh blueberries offer a slightly firmer texture, while frozen blueberries can release more juice during baking.
• Sugar is added to the blueberry filling to enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit. It helps balance any tartness and brings out the flavors of the blueberries. The amount of sugar can be adjusted based on personal preference and the sweetness of the blueberries used.
• Cornstarch serves as a thickening agent in the blueberry galette filling. It helps absorb excess moisture released by the blueberries during baking, creating a luscious and cohesive filling. The cornstarch ensures the filling is not too runny and provides a pleasant texture to the galette.
• Lemon juice adds a tangy and bright element to the blueberry filling. It enhances the natural flavor of the blueberries and balances their sweetness. The acidity of the lemon juice also helps prevent the blueberries from becoming overly sweet and adds a refreshing note to the filling.
• Lemon zest, the finely grated outer peel of the lemon, adds an extra layer of citrusy aroma and flavor to the blueberry galette filling. The zest intensifies the overall taste experience and complements the tartness of the blueberries. It adds a zingy freshness to the filling and enhances its complexity.

Tips for Making a Vegan Blueberry Galette

Here are some tips to help you make a delicious vegan blueberry galette:

1. Choose ripe and flavorful blueberries: Select fresh or frozen blueberries that are ripe, plump, and bursting with flavor. Ripe blueberries will provide a sweet and juicy filling for your galette.
2. Adjust the sweetness: Taste your blueberries before adding sugar to the filling. Depending on their natural sweetness, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar added. Feel free to increase or decrease the sugar accordingly.
3. Use a homemade or store-bought vegan pie crust: Opt for a vegan-friendly pie crust recipe (like the one included in the recipe card below) that uses plant-based fats like vegan butter or coconut oil. You can also use a store-bought vegan pie crust for convenience. Ensure that the crust is rolled out thinly and evenly to allow the blueberries to shine.
4. Chill the dough: After rolling out the pie crust, refrigerate it for about 15-30 minutes before assembling the galette. Chilled dough is easier to handle and helps maintain the shape of the galette during baking.
5. Bake at the right temperature: Preheat your oven and bake the galette at the recommended temperature specified in your recipe. The high heat will help cook the blueberries and create a beautifully browned crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen blueberries for a vegan blueberry galette?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries for a vegan blueberry galette. Keep in mind that frozen blueberries may release more moisture during baking, so you might need to adjust the thickening agents such as cornstarch accordingly. Thaw the frozen blueberries before using and drain off any excess liquid to prevent a soggy crust.

Can I use a pre-made vegan pie crust for a galette?

Yes, you can use a pre-made vegan pie crust for a galette. Look for pre-made pie crusts that are labeled as vegan-friendly and follow the instructions on the package for rolling out the crust. Alternatively, you can also make your own vegan pie crust using plant-based fats like vegan butter or coconut oil.

How do I prevent a soggy crust in a vegan blueberry galette?

Blueberries release moisture during baking, which can make the crust soggy. To combat this, add a thickening agent such as cornstarch or arrowroot powder to the filling. These ingredients will absorb excess moisture and help create a thicker, less watery filling. Baking on a sheet lined with parchment paper is also a good idea. This will help absorb any excess moisture that may be released during baking and prevent it from pooling around the galette, potentially making the crust soggy.

Can I make a vegan blueberry galette in advance?

Yes, you can make a vegan blueberry galette in advance. Prepare the galette as instructed in the recipe and refrigerate it before baking. When you're ready to bake, simply transfer it to the oven and follow the baking instructions. This allows you to prepare the galette ahead of time and enjoy it freshly baked when desired.

How to Serve/Store a Vegan Blueberry Galette

A vegan blueberry galette is a delightful way to enjoy this rustic and fruity dessert. Here are some serving suggestions:

1. Warm from the oven: Serve the blueberry galette warm, fresh out of the oven. The warm filling and flaky crust are especially inviting. Pair it with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream, which will slightly melt and create a luscious combination of warm and cold flavors.
2. Room temperature: Allow the galette to cool completely to room temperature before serving. This will give the filling a chance to set and the crust to firm up. Enjoy it as is, or enhance it with a dollop of coconut whipped cream or a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce.
3. Garnish with powdered sugar: Just before serving, lightly dust the top of the galette with powdered sugar. This adds an elegant touch and enhances the visual appeal of the dessert.
4. Pair with vegan whipped cream: Serve the galette with a generous dollop of vegan whipped cream on the side or directly on top. The creamy and airy texture of the whipped cream complements the sweet and tangy blueberry filling.
5. Add a scoop of vegan ice cream: Enhance the indulgence by serving a slice of blueberry galette with a scoop of your favorite vegan ice cream. Classic flavors like vanilla, blueberry, or coconut also work well, adding a creamy and cool contrast to the warm galette.
6. Drizzle with lemon glaze: Prepare a simple lemon glaze by combining powdered sugar with freshly squeezed lemon juice. Drizzle it over the galette just before serving. The tangy glaze adds a zesty twist and a touch of sweetness.

Remember to slice the galette using a sharp knife, serving individual portions with care to keep the beautiful shape intact.

Storing

Allow the galette to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This will help prevent condensation and keep the crust from becoming soggy. Once the galette has cooled, store it at room temperature. Place it in a covered cake dome, a pie carrier, or loosely cover it with aluminum foil. Storing it at room temperature helps preserve the texture and flavor of the galette.

Keep the galette away from direct sunlight, as it can cause the filling to spoil and the crust to become overly dry. Additionally, avoid placing the galette near heat sources such as stovetops or ovens, as this can affect its quality. A vegan blueberry galette is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of baking. During this time, it will retain its freshness and taste. After a few days, the texture of the crust may start to degrade, and the filling may become less vibrant.

If you need to store the galette for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight freezer bag. Frozen galette can last for up to a month.

Please remember if you make this recipe to snap a pic and share with @censoredbaker on instagram!

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