To us Idahoans, huckleberries are a treasure! We like to serve this pie as a special treat when we have out-of-state guests.

Huckleberry Cheese Pie is a delightful and indulgent dessert that combines the flavors of creamy cheese filling and tangy huckleberry topping. Huckleberries, small purple berries native to North America, impart a unique and slightly tart taste to this pie, making it a beloved regional specialty in certain parts of the United States.

The history of Huckleberry Cheese Pie can be traced back to early settlers and pioneers who foraged for wild huckleberries and incorporated them into various dishes. As settlers moved across the country, the tradition of using huckleberries in pies and desserts spread.

The combination of a buttery crunch crust, creamy cheese filling, and vibrant huckleberry topping creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Each bite of this pie is a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy goodness that captivates the taste buds.

Huckleberry Cheese Pie has become a cherished dessert in regions where huckleberries grow abundantly. Families and communities gather during huckleberry season to collect the wild berries and prepare this delectable treat, carrying on the traditions and flavors of generations past.

Now, you can enjoy the taste of this regional delight by following the detailed instructions provided. Get ready to experience the irresistible combination of flavors in Huckleberry Cheese Pie—a dessert that celebrates the natural bounty of huckleberries and the joy of homemade baking.

PREP: 30 MIN.

BAKE: 20 MIN. + CHILLING

MAKES: 8-10 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

BUTTER CRUNCH CRUST:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup finely chopped nuts
• ½ cup cold butter

CHEESE FILLING:

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping

FRUIT TOPPING:

• ½ cup sugar
• 4½ teaspoons cornstarch
• Dash of salt
• ½ cup water
• 2 cups fresh huckleberries or blueberries, divided
• 1½ teaspoons butter

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and nuts. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from the oven. While the mixture is still hot, press it into a 9-inch pie plate, forming a pie shell. Allow it to cool completely.
4. For the cheese filling, beat the cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream or whipped topping. Pour or spoon the filling into the cooled crust and refrigerate.
5. For the fruit topping, combine the sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan. Stir in the water until smooth, then add 1 cup of huckleberries. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
6. Cook and stir for 1-2 minutes or until thickened. Add the butter and the remaining huckleberries. Allow the mixture to cool, then pour it over the filling in the pie crust.
7. Top the pie with additional whipped cream if desired.
8. Serve and enjoy this delightful Huckleberry Cheese Pie!

Indulge in the flavors of this regional specialty and savor the perfect combination of creamy cheese filling, crunchy crust, and tangy huckleberry topping. The Huckleberry Cheese Pie is sure to become a favorite dessert for any occasion.