Piili

Piili is a traditional Finnish dessert, often described as a type of sweet bread or cake. It is made from a yeasted dough, typically enriched with butter, sugar, and eggs. The characteristic flavor of piili comes from the addition of cardamom, a spice that is commonly used in Finnish baking.

The dough for piili is usually allowed to rise before being shaped and baked. It can be prepared in various forms, with some recipes resembling a braided loaf or a round cake. A common variation involves filling the dough with a sweet mixture before baking, often incorporating ingredients like jam, fruit, or a spiced sugar-butter paste.

Piili is a popular treat for special occasions, such as holidays and family gatherings, but it is also enjoyed as an everyday dessert or with coffee. Its preparation is deeply rooted in Finnish culinary traditions, and it is often associated with comfort and home baking. While specific recipes may vary regionally or by family, the core elements of a sweet, spiced, yeasted dough remain consistent. The texture is typically soft and slightly dense, with a fragrant aroma from the cardamom.