Classic Saskatoon Berry Pie Recipe

Name: Classic Saskatoon Berry Pie Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 110 min
Yield: 8 slices
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into cubes); 6-8 tablespoons ice water; 4 cups Saskatoon berries (fresh or frozen); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash); 1 tablespoon milk

110 min 8 slices Medium

All Recipes

Experience the taste of Canadian summer with this Saskatoon berry pie, combining tartness and sweetness in a flaky crust.

Prep

30 min

Cook

50 min

Total

110 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Saskatoon Berry Pie is a quintessential Canadian dessert that celebrates the unique flavour of Saskatoon berries, also known as serviceberries. These small, purple berries are a favourite in the Prairies and offer a delightful mix of sweetness and slight tartness. This pie is perfect for those who appreciate a classic dessert with a regional twist. Our version ensures a perfectly balanced filling, encased in a flaky, buttery crust. Whether you're using fresh berries picked in the summer or frozen ones stored from last season, this pie is sure to impress.

Instructions

Prepare the crust

In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add cold butter cubes and cut in using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together. Divide dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure your butter and water are cold to achieve a flaky crust.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Make the filling

In a medium bowl, combine Saskatoon berries, sugar, flour, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Stir together until berries are well coated. Set aside.

Pro tip: If using frozen berries, do not thaw before mixing.

Roll out the dough

On a floured surface, roll out one dough disc into a 30 cm (12-inch) circle. Fit into a 23 cm (9-inch) pie plate, allowing excess to hang over the edges.

Pro tip: Roll from the centre outward to maintain an even thickness.

Fill the pie

Pour the berry filling into the prepared crust, spreading evenly.

Top and seal

Roll out the second dough disc and place over the filling. Trim and fold the edges to seal. Cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape.

Pro tip: Use a fork or pinch method to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.

Apply egg wash

Mix the beaten egg with milk and brush over the top crust.

Pro tip: This helps achieve a golden colour.

Bake the pie

Place the pie on the oven's middle rack and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C). Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and juices are bubbling.

Pro tip: Tent the edges with foil if they brown too quickly.

Cool and serve

Remove pie from oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving.

Pro tip: Cooling allows the filling to set properly.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh or frozen Saskatoon berries for the best flavour.
Chill the pie dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling.
Brush the top crust with milk for a golden finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Saskatoon pie unique?

Saskatoon pie is unique due to the Saskatoon berries, which provide a distinct sweet and slightly almond-like flavour.

Can I use frozen Saskatoon berries?

Yes, frozen Saskatoon berries can be used directly without thawing, ensuring a delicious filling.

How many calories are in a slice of Saskatoon pie?

Each slice of Saskatoon pie contains approximately 350 calories.

Can I add rhubarb to Saskatoon pie?

Yes, adding rhubarb to Saskatoon pie is a popular variation that adds a tart contrast to the sweetness of the berries.

How do I store leftover Saskatoon pie?

Store leftover Saskatoon pie in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage.

What is the best way to serve Saskatoon pie?

Saskatoon pie is best served with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to complement its flavours.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Saskatoon Berry Pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance its flavours. This pie can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the pie before baking and cook directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.