Finnish Whipped Berry Dessert
Vispipuuro
Vispipuuro, meaning 'whipped porridge,' is a classic Finnish dessert or snack made from berries, typically lingonberries, cooked into a smooth, tart porridge and then whipped to a light, airy consistency. It's a refreshing and vibrant dish, often served with a splash of milk or cream.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 dl Fresh or frozen berries (lingonberries, cranberries, or mixed berries)
- 6 dl Water
- 1 dl Sugar (or to taste)
- 3 tbsp Lemon juice (optional, for tartness)
- 1 dl Farina (cream of wheat) or fine semolina
- pinch Salt
- as needed Milk or cream (for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Cook the berries: In a saucepan, combine the berries and water. If using fresh berries, bring to a boil and simmer until softened. If using frozen berries, bring to a simmer directly. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve if you prefer a smooth consistency, pressing gently on the solids. Discard the solids.
💡 Tip: Using lingonberries or cranberries will give a more traditional tart flavor. - 2
Sweeten and thicken: Return the berry liquid to the saucepan. Add the sugar and lemon juice (if using) and stir until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Gradually whisk in the farina or semolina, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
💡 Tip: Whisking continuously is key to achieving a smooth porridge. - 3
Simmer the porridge: Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring constantly, for about 5-10 minutes, or until the porridge thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Stir in a pinch of salt.
💡 Tip: The porridge should be thick enough to hold its shape. - 4
Whip the dessert: Remove the porridge from the heat. Let it cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes. Then, using a whisk or an electric mixer, whip the porridge vigorously until it becomes light, airy, and pale in color. This process can take several minutes.
💡 Tip: Whipping incorporates air, giving the dessert its characteristic light texture. - 5
Serve: Spoon the whipped vispipuuro into bowls. Serve immediately, optionally with a splash of cold milk or cream, and perhaps some fresh berries or a spoonful of jam.
💡 Tip: Vispipuuro is delicious served warm or chilled.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference, as berry tartness can vary.
- ✓If you don't have farina, fine semolina or even cornstarch (used sparingly) can be used as a thickener.
- ✓For a richer flavor, a small knob of butter can be stirred into the porridge before whipping.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Use different berry combinations like strawberry-rhubarb or blueberry.
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of skyr.