20 Delicious Serviceberry Recipes for Every Season
As the seasons change, our taste buds crave new and exciting flavors to keep us warm and cozy. One such ingredient that’s often overlooked but deserves more love is the humble serviceberry. Native to North America, this bush produces small, juicy berries that are bursting with sweet-tart flavor. From pies and jams to smoothies and salads, we’ve rounded up 20 scrumptious serviceberry recipes for you to enjoy throughout the year.
In the following pages, discover how to harness the power of these tiny but mighty berries in a variety of dishes, from classic desserts to savory main courses and even refreshing drinks. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, we’ve got something for everyone to get your serviceberry game on!
Serviceberry Pie with Flaky Crust
This classic pie recipe showcases the unique flavor of serviceberries, a type of fruit often overlooked but well worth exploring. With its flaky crust and sweet-tart filling, this pie is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups serviceberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and butter; use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add water, stirring with a fork until dough comes together in a ball.
4. Roll out crust on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt; mix well.
6. Add serviceberries and mix until they’re evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
7. Place filling in center of dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
8. Fold crust over filling, pressing edges to seal.
9. Brush top with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
10. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Serviceberry Jam with Lemon Zest
This recipe showcases the sweet-tart flavor of serviceberries, paired with a hint of citrus from lemon zest. Perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups serviceberries (or substitute with blueberries or raspberries)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1 package pectin
Instructions:
1. Rinse the serviceberries and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a large pot, combine the serviceberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the grated lemon zest and pectin. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Serviceberry Smoothie Bowl with Granola
Start your day with a boost of antioxidants and fiber from this refreshing Serviceberry Smoothie Bowl topped with crunchy homemade granola.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen serviceberries (or substitute with blueberries or raspberries)
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Toppings: granola (recipe below), sliced banana, and a drizzle of honey
Granola Recipe:
– 2 tablespoons rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine serviceberries, banana, Greek yogurt, honey, oats, almonds, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour into a bowl and top with homemade granola (mix all ingredients together in a small bowl).
3. Add sliced banana and drizzle with honey, if desired.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serviceberry and Almond Tart
This sweet and tangy tart combines the flavors of juicy serviceberries with crunchy almonds, perfect for a summer dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen serviceberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together serviceberries and granulated sugar.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Arrange the serviceberry mixture on top of the crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the serviceberries.
6. Fold the crust edges up to form a crusty border.
7. Brush the egg wash over the crust and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Serviceberry Muffins with Cinnamon Streusel
Brighten up your morning routine with these moist and flavorful Serviceberry Muffins, topped with a crunchy cinnamon streusel. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup Serviceberry puree (or substitute with blueberries or raspberries)
– 1 large egg
– Cinnamon streusel topping (see below)
Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, Serviceberry puree, and egg. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Top each muffin with cinnamon streusel topping (see below).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Serviceberry Chia Pudding
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of serviceberries with the nutritional benefits of chia seeds, creating a delicious and healthy dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup serviceberry jam (or other fruit jam)
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
2. Add honey and vanilla extract to the mixture and stir well.
3. Spoon the serviceberry jam into the mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
4. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh fruit or nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Serviceberry Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream
Serviceberry Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
This classic dessert combines the sweetness of serviceberries (also known as Juneberries) with a crispy, buttery crust and a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen serviceberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 vanilla ice cream scoop per serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together serviceberries and granulated sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter, heavy cream, and eggs; stir until smooth.
4. Pour batter over berries and smooth top.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Serviceberry Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Elevate your breakfast routine with these fluffy Serviceberry Pancakes, infused with the sweet and tangy flavor of serviceberries (Amelanchier canadensis). Pair them with a drizzle of pure maple syrup for a delightful morning treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup serviceberry jam or preserves
– Butter, melted (for greasing the pan)
– Maple syrup, pure (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and serviceberry jam until smooth.
3. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for another minute.
8. Serve warm with pure maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (depending on pancake size)
Serviceberry Sorbet with Fresh Mint
This sorbet recipe combines the sweet-tart flavor of serviceberries with the cooling essence of fresh mint, creating a unique and revitalizing dessert perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups serviceberries (or substitute with blueberries or raspberries)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the serviceberries and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the serviceberries with the sugar, water, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and solids.
4. Stir in the fresh mint leaves.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once set, scoop the sorbet into bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (depending on ice cream maker)
Serviceberry Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts
This refreshing summer salad combines the sweet tartness of serviceberries with creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of mint. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh serviceberries (or substitute with blueberries or raspberries)
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine serviceberries, goat cheese, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Pour the honey-mustard mixture over the berry- cheese mixture, and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serviceberry BBQ Sauce for Grilled Meats
Elevate your grilled meats with this sweet and tangy Serviceberry BBQ Sauce recipe, featuring the unique flavor of serviceberries. This sauce is perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, pork chops, or burgers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon serviceberry jam (or substitute with another sweet and tangy preserve)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, water, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, and serviceberry jam.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None (preparation only)
Serviceberry Lemonade with Basil
This sweet and tangy lemonade combines the flavors of juicy serviceberries, fresh basil, and a hint of sugar. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique twist on traditional lemonade.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups serviceberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the serviceberries with 2 cups of water until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and pulp.
3. In a large pitcher, mix together the lemon juice, sugar, and 2 cups of water until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Add the basil leaves to the pitcher and stir well.
5. Pour in the serviceberry puree and stir gently.
6. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
7. Serve over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is a refreshing drink that doesn’t require cooking.
Serviceberry Oatmeal Cookies
Serviceberry Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of serviceberries with the warmth of oatmeal, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup serviceberry jam or preserves (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or dried cranberries for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in serviceberry jam or preserves until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Serviceberry Galette with Honey Drizzle
This sweet and tangy galette is a perfect celebration of the serviceberry’s unique flavor profile, paired with a rich honey drizzle that adds depth and warmth. Perfect for a springtime dessert or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh serviceberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Honey, for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Add serviceberries and toss to coat.
4. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Arrange the serviceberry mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
6. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Brush with beaten egg for glaze and sprinkle with sugar.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Drizzle with honey before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Serviceberry Yogurt Parfait
This Serviceberry Yogurt Parfait recipe combines the natural sweetness of serviceberries with the tanginess of yogurt and crunch of granola, making for a perfect snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup fresh serviceberries (or substitute with blueberries or raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup rolled oats granola
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Gently fold in the serviceberries.
3. Spoon the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
4. Top with granola and mint leaves (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Serviceberry Glazed Chicken
This sweet and tangy glazed chicken dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The serviceberry glaze adds a unique flavor profile with hints of tartness from the berries.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup serviceberries (or substitute with blueberries or raspberries)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the serviceberries with honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic until smooth.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the serviceberry glaze all over the chicken.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serviceberry Compote over Waffles
Start your day with a sweet and tangy twist on traditional waffles. This recipe combines the flavors of juicy serviceberries, sugar, and lemon to create a delicious compote that’s perfect for topping crispy waffles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen serviceberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 4-6 waffles (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine serviceberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Add the water and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the compote has thickened slightly.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature over waffles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serviceberry Infused Vodka
Combine the sweetness of serviceberries with the crispness of vodka to create a unique and refreshing spirit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup serviceberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 liter vodka
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Rinse the serviceberries and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a clean glass jar, combine the serviceberries and vodka. Stir gently to combine.
3. Seal the jar and store it in the refrigerator for at least 4 weeks, shaking occasionally.
4. After 4 weeks, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
5. Add the granulated sugar to the infused vodka and stir until dissolved.
Cooking Time: None (refrigeration only)
Notes:
– Serviceberries can be found in some specialty stores or online. You can also substitute with blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile.
– The longer you infuse, the stronger the flavor will be. Taste and adjust to your liking.
Serviceberry Bread with Walnuts
This recipe combines the sweet flavor of serviceberries with the earthy richness of walnuts, creating a unique and satisfying bread perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup serviceberry jam or preserves
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Add flour mixture, serviceberry jam, and walnuts to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Serviceberry Ice Cream with Dark Chocolate Chunks
Experience the unique flavor of serviceberries (Amelanchier canadensis) in this creamy ice cream recipe, paired with rich dark chocolate chunks.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pureed serviceberries
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chunks (at least 60% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in pureed serviceberries and vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the dark chocolate chunks.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-6 hours (including chilling and freezing time)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of serviceberry! This versatile fruit can be enjoyed all year round, and our list of 20 delicious recipes showcases its culinary potential. From classic pies and jams to innovative smoothie bowls and sorbets, we’ve got you covered for every season. Discover how to make a flaky crust pie, a bright and zesty jam, or even infused vodka. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet treats or savory delights, serviceberry is the perfect ingredient to add some excitement to your cooking routine.