Classic Saskatoon Berry Pie Recipe – Authentic Canadian Prairie Delight

A Taste of the Canadian Prairies

Saskatoon Berry Pie is one of Canada’s most cherished regional desserts, especially beloved on the Prairies where the wild saskatoon bushes grow abundantly. These small, purple berries – similar in appearance to blueberries but with a unique sweet-tart flavor and almond-like undertones – create a filling that’s rich, jammy, and deeply satisfying. Paired with a tender, flaky double crust (often finished with a beautiful lattice top), this pie is the ultimate celebration of Canadian summer foraging and baking traditions.

Why Saskatoon Pie is Special

Unlike common blueberry or strawberry pies, Saskatoon Berry Pie offers a distinctive taste profile that locals describe as a cross between blueberries and blackberries with hints of almond. It’s a true taste of the Canadian West, often served at family gatherings, summer fairs, and holiday tables. Making the pie from scratch with homemade pastry elevates it to a show-stopping dessert that’s both rustic and elegant. Whether you forage your own berries or buy them frozen, this recipe delivers authentic Prairie flavor every time.

Craving a slice of Canadian heritage? Dive into the full recipe below and bring the taste of the Prairies to your kitchen!

Classic Saskatoon Berry Pie Recipe – Authentic Canadian Prairie Delight

Recipe by Next DeliciousCourse: DessertCuisine: CanadianDifficulty: Hard

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

45

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

30

minutes

Calories

420

kcal

Ingredients

• 6 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tsp salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• 1 cup vegetable shortening, cold

• 1 large egg

• 1 tbsp vinegar

• Ice-cold water (to make 1 cup total with egg)

• 5 cups fresh or frozen Saskatoon berries

• ½ cup + 1 tbsp granulated sugar

• 3 tbsp cornstarch

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, diced

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)

Directions

• In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add cold butter and shortening; rub in until mixture resembles coarse oatmeal with pea-sized pieces.
• Beat 1 egg with vinegar in a 2-cup measure; add ice water to reach 1 cup. Stir into flour mixture just until dough holds together.
• Turn onto floured surface, divide into 5 portions. Use 2 now, freeze 3 wrapped tightly (up to 2 months).
• Chill 2 discs for 1 hour.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, place rack in lower third, line baking sheet with foil.
• Roll one disc into 12-inch circle; fit into 9-inch pie plate, leaving overhang.
• Mix berries with ½ cup sugar and cornstarch; pour into crust. Dot with butter.
• Roll second disc; cut into 6 wide strips. Weave lattice over filling.
• Fold bottom crust over lattice ends; crimp or press with fork.
• Beat remaining egg with 1 tbsp water; brush over crust. Sprinkle with 1 tbsp sugar.
• Bake on prepared sheet 90-100 minutes until golden and bubbling. Cool on rack.

Notes

• Frozen Saskatoons work perfectly – no need to thaw.
• Wide lattice strips are traditional for Saskatoon pie and help contain the juicy filling.
• For extra flavor, add ½ tsp almond extract to the filling.
• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Health Benefits of Saskatoon Berry Pie

Saskatoon berries are nutritional powerhouses, packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins C and E. They contain more anthocyanins than blueberries, supporting heart health, reducing inflammation, and improving brain function. The fiber aids digestion, while the natural sweetness means less added sugar is needed. Enjoyed in moderation, this pie offers a healthier dessert option compared to many traditional sweets.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Each slice of Saskatoon Berry Pie provides roughly 420 calories, 18g fat (mostly from butter/shortening), 58g carbohydrates, 5g fiber, 22g sugar, and 5g protein. It delivers a good source of vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants from the berries, plus iron from the crust. Values vary based on exact ingredients and portion size.

Storing Tips for Saskatoon Berry Pie

• Room Temperature: Best enjoyed the day it’s baked. Can sit covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Bring to room temperature or warm slightly before serving for best texture.
• Freezing: Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze whole pie or individual slices for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Warm slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–12 minutes to restore crust crispness (avoid microwave to prevent soggy crust).

Suggested Similar Canadian Desserts

If you love Saskatoon Berry Pie, try these other beloved Canadian classics:

• Flapper Pie – A creamy, custard-filled pie with a graham cracker crust and meringue topping, a true Prairie favorite.
• Canadian Sugar Pie (Tarte au Sucre) – A rich, gooey sugar pie made with brown sugar, cream, and a flaky crust.
• Canadian Timbits – Bite-sized doughnuts, often filled with jam or cream, that are a national coffee-shop staple.

Conclusion

Saskatoon Berry Pie is more than just a dessert – it’s a celebration of Canadian heritage, the taste of wild summer berries, and the joy of homemade baking. Whether you forage your own berries on the Prairies or use frozen ones, this pie delivers unforgettable flavor and a beautiful lattice crust that’s sure to impress. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or simply treating yourself, it’s a true taste of Canada. Explore more sweet treats on our Desserts List and discover your next favorite Canadian classic today!

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