Homemade Finnish Blueberry Pie (Mustikkapiirakka) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of fresh blueberries
  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 cup of milk
  • 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup of sour cream
  • 1/4 cup of powdered sugar for dusting

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a pie dish or a 9-inch square baking dish.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. The batter will be relatively thin.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Scatter the blueberries evenly over the top.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Let the pie cool for a few minutes before spooning the sour cream over the top.
  8. Dust the top of the pie with powdered sugar just before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use a different type of berries, such as raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries.
  • Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.
  • Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
  • Try using almond flour or coconut flour for a gluten-free alternative.
  • Swap the regular granulated sugar with brown sugar or coconut sugar for a different flavor.
  • Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom to the batter for a warm and aromatic taste.
  • Experiment with different crusts, such as a graham cracker crust or a shortbread crust.
  • Add a crumb topping by combining flour, butter, and sugar, then sprinkling it over the blueberries before baking.
  • For a vegan option, substitute the milk with almond milk or soy milk, and use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter.
  • If desired, serve the pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our recipe for Mustikkapiirakka, a traditional Finnish blueberry pie that is a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors. This delightful dessert features fresh blueberries nestled in a sweet, moist, and slightly tangy batter, topped with a hint of sour cream and a dusting of powdered sugar. The recipe is relatively straightforward and requires basic baking ingredients. It's the perfect dessert to showcase summer's blueberry bounty, but can also be prepared year-round with frozen berries. The result is a pie that's not overly sweet, but just right - a scrumptious treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Prepare your taste buds for a slice of Finland's culinary heritage!

Common questions

  1. Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen blueberries in this recipe. Thaw them before using and make sure to drain any excess liquid.
  2. Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour? Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour. However, the texture and taste may vary slightly.
  3. Can I use a different type of fruit? Absolutely! While this recipe specifically calls for blueberries, you can use other fruits such as raspberries, blackberries, or a combination of berries.
  4. Can I use a different type of sweetener? Yes, you can experiment with different sweeteners like brown sugar or a sugar substitute. Just keep in mind that it might slightly alter the taste and texture of the final result.
  5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make the mustikkapiirakka in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Warm it slightly before serving, if desired.
  6. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the mustikkapiirakka for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in the freezer.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Pie dish - A round or square baking dish used for baking the mustikkapiirakka.
  • Whisk - A utensil used for mixing the wet ingredients together.
  • Mixing bowl - A bowl used for combining the dry ingredients.
  • Spoon - Used for pouring the sour cream over the baked pie.
  • Sifter - Optional, but helpful for dusting the powdered sugar over the top of the pie.
  • Oven - Used for baking the mustikkapiirakka.
  • Toothpick - Used to test the doneness of the pie by inserting it into the center.
  • Cooling rack - Useful for allowing the pie to cool before serving.

Origin stories

Mustikkapiirakka, or Finnish Blueberry Pie, has a deeply rooted history in Finland, where wild blueberries are abundant in the summertime. Finnish families traditionally venture into the forest to gather these wild berries, a joyful and meditative activity that allows them to connect with nature. This beloved tradition then culminates in the kitchen, where families bake the fresh blueberries into mustikkapiirakka. This dessert is not just a pie, but a celebration of summer, family, and the generous gifts of the Finnish forests. It is a symbol of Finnish simplicity and love for nature, encased in a delicious, sweet treat.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.