In Season: Blueberries

Blueberry Health Benefits: From research labs all across the country and the world, there is growing evidence that blueberries are an important part of a healthy diet.

Chana Rubin about blueberries
Serious Eats about blueberries
Cheese blintzes with blueberry sauce

Blueberry Bonanza: Part 1
Blueberry Bonanza: Part 2
Blueberry Bonanza: Part 3


Blueberry Buns (Shritzlach)

Source: This recipe is adapted from the one used by Toronto's Open Window Bakery.
Yield: Makes 8 buns

For dough:
1 package active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water
3 cups flour
1/3 cup sugar
1 tsp. salt
3 tbsp. vegetable shortening
2 eggs
1/2 tsp. vanilla

For Filling:
2 cups (1 pint) fresh or thawed frozen blueberries
1/2 cup sugar
1 tbsp. corn starch dissolved in 1/4 cup water
1/4 tsp. salt
1 beaten egg plus 1 tsp. water for egg wash
Sugar for sprinkling

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let stand until mixture begins to bubble, about 5 minutes.

Sift together flour, sugar, and salt. Place in the bowl of an electric mixer. Add shortening, yeast and water, eggs and vanilla and beat until dough is smooth. Let stand while preparing filling.

Mix filling ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool.

On a well-floured surface, roll out dough to 1/8" thickness. Add flour whenever dough threatens to stick. Cut dough into pieces 5" square.

Place 1 tbsp. of filling in center of square, then fold dough over on top and pinch to close. Pinch ends closed. Cover buns with a towel and let stand 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 375°F. Brush buns with egg wash and sprinkle tops with sugar. Bake until browned, about 16 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.