A mother and her child standing in front of a blueberry field for blueberry season at Bob's Berries

True Blue: Five great ways to enjoy your Florida blueberry haul

By Last Updated

This time of year, Florida blueberries are ripe for the picking. And little hands are the perfect size to collect the bounty. Here are some ways to enjoy your haul.

Blueberry-lemon pancakes:

Jazz up your go-to pancake recipe by adding the zest and juice of a fresh lemon to the batter, along with a generous handful of berries.

Blueberry dessert pizza:

On a baking pan lined with parchment paper, roll out store-bought sugar cookie dough into one large “crust.” Bake it according to package instructions. While it’s in the oven, mix up the “sauce”—equal parts confectioner’s sugar and softened cream cheese. When the crust cools, spread on the sauce. Then top it with blueberries galore.

Blueberry ice pops:

In a food processor, combine fresh or frozen blueberries with vanilla-flavored Greek yogurt. Sweeten with honey to taste. Pour into Popsicle molds for a protein-packed way to beat the heat.

Balsamic blueberry grilled cheese sandwich:

Add a sophisticated upgrade to the classic comfort food. In a small saucepan, combine fresh blueberries with a splash of balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of brown sugar. Boil for five minutes, then strain out the whole berries. (Pro tip: Save the syrup for cocktails or ice cream.) Spread the berries onto buttered sourdough bread, top with your favorite cheese, a layer of fresh spinach, more cheese and more blueberries. Toast or grill until the cheese is ooey-gooey.

Freezer pleasers:

Blueberries freeze beautifully, so add any leftovers to a resealable plastic bag and stash them in the freezer. Use them as needed for waffles, smoothies or even as pet treats.

pancakes on a plate with blueberries and strawberries on the side
Pancakes with Blueberries and Strawberries — Image courtesy of Dalia Colón

Blueberry Fields Forever

A few of our favorite U-picks and events.

The Keel Farms Blueberry Festival takes place Saturdays and Sundays in April (closed April 5 for Easter). Enjoy U-pick berries while they last, plus bounce houses, a blueberry shortcake eating contest, adult beverages and more. 5202 Thonotosassa Road, Plant City, (813) 752-9100.

At Bob’s Berries, organic U-pick sessions are by appointment only, so you’ll have the entire nursery to yourselves. On April 18, don’t miss the 10th annual Friends of the Farm Spring Festival, featuring barbecue, dozens of local vendors and more. 11501 Winn Road, Riverview, (813) 586-3262.

On April 25, enjoy a scenic drive to Southern Hill Farms in Central Florida for the AdventHealth U Run U Pick Blueberry 5K. Registration includes a blueberry pancake breakfast, a pint of U-pick blueberries, a themed finisher’s medal, T-shirt and chip timing. 16651 Schofield Road, Clermont, 407-986-5806.

Head up to Brooksville for the Hernando County Blueberry Festival. Taking place May 8 to 10, the event features a blueberry pie eating contest, live music, animal showcases and more. 5360 Lockhart Road, Brooksville, (727) 365-6411.

In May, Lithia Berry Farms offers U-pick and pre-picked berries. 17928 Bill Taylor Road, Lithia, (813) 774-2374.

Antioch Blues has U-pick blueberries on many weekdays and weekends throughout the spring. 12351 McIntosh Road, Thonotosassa, (813) 422-2843.

 

Originally published in the April 2026 issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine.

 

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