Karjalanpiirakka Recipe – European Special
Karjalanpiirakka, or Karelian Pies, are classic Finnish pastries known for their thin rye crust and creamy rice porridge filling. This traditional recipe hails from the Karelia region and is a staple of Scandinavian breakfast tables. The rustic, hand-crimped pies are baked until golden, then brushed with butter and often topped with a rich egg-butter spread. Simple yet deeply comforting, Karjalanpiirakka captures the essence of Finnish home baking.
- Prep Time30 min
- Cook Time45 min
- Total Time1 hr 15 min
For the Rice Filling:
- 1 cup short-grain rice
- 4 cups milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp butter
For the Rye Crust:
- 1 cup rye flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup water
For the Egg-Butter Spread (Munavoi):
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp butter, softened
- Pinch of salt.
Prepare the Rice Filling:
Rinse rice thoroughly; bring water to a boil and add rice.
Cook until water is absorbed, then add milk and simmer over low heat until rice is soft and creamy (about 30–40 minutes).
Stir in butter and salt; let cool.
Make the Dough:
Mix rye flour, all-purpose flour, and salt in a bowl.
Add water gradually and knead into a firm but pliable dough.
Roll into a log and divide into small pieces (about 12–15).
Roll each piece into thin oval shapes.
Assemble the Pies:
Spoon a line of rice filling down the center of each oval.
Fold the edges over slightly and pinch or crimp to form the traditional ruffled edges.
Place pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake:
Preheat oven to 250 °C (480 °F).
Bake pies for 10–15 minutes until crust is lightly golden and set.
Finish:
Brush hot pies generously with melted butter or dip briefly in hot milk-butter mixture for softness.
Serve warm with egg-butter spread.
Recipe Notes :
Crust Tip: Roll the rye crust as thin as possible for the most authentic texture and flavor.
Filling Variations: While rice porridge is traditional, mashed potatoes or carrots can be used for variety.
Serving Suggestion: Enjoy warm with munavoi (egg-butter spread) — a classic Finnish topping.
Make Ahead: Both the dough and rice filling can be prepared ahead, making assembly quick and easy.
Authentic Flavor: Use rye flour for the crust to achieve the signature taste of true Karjalanpiirakka.
