Traditional Finnish Lingonberry Pie (Puolukkapiirakka) Recipe

Ingredients

1.5 cups of fresh lingonberries (puolukka) or cranberries
1 cup of sugar
2 eggs
1 cup of buttermilk
0.5 cups of melted butter
1.5 cups of all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon of baking powder
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (approximately 392 degrees Fahrenheit).
In a large bowl, combine the fresh lingonberries or cranberries with half a cup of sugar. Mix until the berries are well-coated, then set aside.
In another bowl, beat the eggs and the remaining half cup of sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the egg and sugar mixture. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined.
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring well to avoid lumps.
Pour the batter into a greased pie dish. Spread the sugared berries evenly over the top of the batter.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle of the pie comes out clean.
Allow the pie to cool before serving. Enjoy your Puolukkapiirakka!

Tools for making

Large bowl - used for mixing the berries with sugar and for preparing the batter
Pie dish - a greased dish used for baking the Puolukkapiirakka
Whisk - used for beating the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy
Spatula - for mixing the wet and dry ingredients together
Oven - preheated to 200 degrees Celsius (approximately 392 degrees Fahrenheit) to bake the pie
Toothpick - inserted into the pie to check if it is fully cooked

Recipe variations

Use a different type of berry, such as blueberries or raspberries, instead of lingonberries or cranberries.
Experiment with different types of crust, such as a graham cracker crust or a shortbread crust.
Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly nuttier flavor and added nutritional value.
For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom to the batter for a warm and aromatic twist.
Include a handful of chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for added texture and flavor.
For a dairy-free option, substitute the buttermilk and melted butter with non-dairy alternatives, such as almond milk and coconut oil.
To make it a savory pie, omit the sugar and berries, and instead add your favorite combination of sautéed vegetables and cheese.

Recipe overview

Puolukkapiirakka is a delicious Finnish lingonberry pie that's perfect for dessert or as a sweet treat with coffee. This recipe showcases the tartness of fresh lingonberries, balanced with the sweetness of sugar and the richness of buttermilk. If you can't find lingonberries, feel free to substitute with cranberries. The preparation is simple and straightforward, making it a great choice for beginner bakers. You'll start by coating the berries in sugar, then creating a rich batter to pour over them. After baking to a golden brown, you'll have a delightful pie with a tender crumb and a burst of berry flavor in every bite. This recipe serves 8, so it's perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy the process of making this traditional Finnish pie, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite.

Common questions

Can I use frozen lingonberries or cranberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen lingonberries or cranberries if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using in the recipe.
Can I use a different type of berry?
While the traditional recipe calls for lingonberries or cranberries, you can experiment with other berries if you prefer. Keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary.
Can I substitute the buttermilk with regular milk?
Yes, if you don't have buttermilk, you can use regular milk as a substitute. Simply add a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a cup of milk and let it sit for a few minutes to curdle before using.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Make sure to check the manufacturer's instructions for the appropriate amount to use.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie ahead of time. Simply cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Warm it in the oven before serving if desired.

Serving dishes and utensils

Pie dish - A round baking dish with high sides, used to bake the Puolukkapiirakka.
Mixing bowls - Various sizes of bowls for mixing the ingredients.
Whisk - Used for beating the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Spatula - A tool for mixing the batter and scraping the sides of the bowl.
Measuring cups - Used to measure the ingredients accurately.
Oven - To preheat and bake the Puolukkapiirakka.
Toothpick - To check if the pie is fully baked by inserting it into the middle of the pie.
Pie server - A utensil with a triangular blade, used to cut and serve the Puolukkapiirakka.
Cooling rack - Used to cool down the pie before serving.

Origin stories

Puolukkapiirakka, a popular Finnish delicacy, has a rich heritage steeped in the northern European culture. In Finland, lingonberries, or puolukka, grow abundantly in the wild, a hearty fruit that can withstand the harsh Nordic winters. For centuries, the Finnish people have harvested these resilient berries, incorporating them into their cuisine as a means of preservation and sustenance. The result is Puolukkapiirakka, a tart yet sweet pie that is a wonderful combination of Finnish resourcefulness and love for their natural environment. This luscious pie is often shared between neighbors, symbolizing the Finnish spirit of community and cooperation, particularly during the long, challenging winter months. It's not just a pie, it's a slice of Finnish culture and history.

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.