Swedish Pancakes

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These Swedish pancakes are a delightful blend of fluffy, tender textures with a beautiful, lacy edge that makes each bite a perfect combination of buttery and chewy goodness. They’re thin enough to roll or fold but have just enough body to sink your teeth into. Traditionally topped with lingonberry jam and yogurt, they offer a slightly tart and sweet contrast to the buttery pancake base.

Whether for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick snack, Swedish pancakes are an all-time favorite for their ease of preparation and versatility. You can enjoy them plain, with fresh fruit and cream, or go classic with a drizzle of maple syrup. Each pancake is a little work of art, golden and delicious, perfect for a cozy family breakfast or a fancy brunch with friends.

Full Recipe:

3 eggs

1 1/2 cups whole milk (+ 1/4 cup, as needed)
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons melted butter

1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt

For Topping:

Lingonberry or blueberry jam
Plain yogurt
Whipped cream (or heavy whipping cream)

Directions:

Make Pancake Batter: In a blender, blend the eggs and milk until the mixture has doubled in size, about 30 seconds. Add flour, melted butter, sugar, and salt; blend for another 15-20 seconds until combined.
Pour and Pan Tilt: Preheat a nonstick or seasoned cast-iron pan over medium heat. Pour about 1/4 cup of pancake batter into the pan, and immediately tilt the pan to spread the batter wider, creating a thin lacy edge.

Cook: Let the pancake cook for about 1 minute or until golden brown on the first side. Flip the pancake using a spatula and cook for another 15-30 seconds on the other side.
Serve: Serve flat, folded, or rolled, topped with lingonberry jam and yogurt, or your preferred toppings like whipped cream, fresh fruit, or syrup.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 120 kcal per serving | Servings: 4-6 pancakes

The Tradition and History of Swedish Pancakes (Pannkakor)

Swedish pancakes, known as “pannkakor,” are a beloved part of Scandinavian cuisine, with a texture that’s lighter than American pancakes but slightly thicker than a French crepe. They’re traditionally enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a comforting dessert, often topped with sweet lingonberry jam, which has a tangy-sweet flavor that perfectly balances the buttery richness of the pancake.

The recipe has been passed down through generations and is a staple in many Swedish households. It’s common to find Swedish pancakes being served during special occasions like Midsummer celebrations, as a cozy Sunday breakfast, or as part of a family brunch spread.

Ingredients Explained and Their Role in the Recipe

Eggs: The base of the batter, providing structure and richness.

Whole Milk: Gives a smooth, creamy consistency to the batter. Adding extra milk will make the pancakes thinner and more delicate, while less milk keeps them a bit thicker.
All-Purpose Flour: The main dry ingredient, providing the necessary body to the batter without making it too dense.
Melted Butter: Adds flavor and moisture to the batter, ensuring that the pancakes remain tender and delicious without sticking to the pan.

Granulated Sugar: A touch of sweetness that doesn’t overwhelm the subtle flavor of the pancakes.
Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.

Tips for Making the Perfect Swedish Pancakes

Blend the Batter for Smoothness: Using a blender helps achieve a smooth, lump-free batter and also adds air, giving the pancakes a light texture.

Pan Tilt for a Lacy Edge: Tilting the pan immediately after pouring the batter creates that signature thin and crispy lacy edge.
Non-Stick or Cast Iron Pan: A well-seasoned cast-iron pan or non-stick skillet works best to prevent sticking and achieve an even cook on the pancakes.
Minimal Cook Time: Since the pancakes are thin, they only need a minute or so on one side, and a quick flip of 15-30 seconds on the other. They should be golden brown but not overcooked.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Classic Lingonberry Jam and Cream: The traditional way to serve Swedish pancakes is with a dollop of lingonberry jam and plain yogurt or whipped cream. The jam adds a lovely tartness that complements the buttery flavor.
Fruit and Cream: Fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries work wonderfully with a topping of whipped cream for a fresh and summery twist.
Nutella or Chocolate Spread: For those looking for a sweeter option, spread some Nutella or a chocolate hazelnut spread on the pancake before folding or rolling it.

Savory Fillings: While Swedish pancakes are most often served sweet, they can also be made savory by omitting the sugar from the batter and filling them with ingredients like smoked salmon, cream cheese, and fresh dill, or sautéed mushrooms and cheese.

Storing and Reheating Swedish Pancakes

Swedish pancakes store well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Simply stack them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. When ready to eat, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in the oven for a few minutes. For a quick breakfast on the go, they’re also delicious cold, rolled up with jam and yogurt.

Nutritional Information and Adaptations

Swedish pancakes are relatively low in calories (around 120 kcal per pancake), making them a light breakfast or snack option. If you’re looking to adapt the recipe:

Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version.
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and a dairy-free butter substitute.
Vegan: Swap the eggs with flaxseed or chia seed eggs, and use the dairy-free adaptations mentioned above.

Swedish Pancakes vs. Regular Pancakes vs. Crepes

Swedish Pancakes vs. American Pancakes: American pancakes are fluffier and thicker due to the use of baking powder or baking soda, creating a rise. Swedish pancakes have a denser, egg-based batter, resulting in a thinner and more flexible pancake.
Swedish Pancakes vs. Crepes: The batter for Swedish pancakes and crepes is quite similar. However, Swedish pancakes tend to be slightly thicker, have a lacy edge, and are primarily served with sweet toppings, while crepes are often rolled with both sweet and savory fillings.

Occasions to Enjoy Swedish Pancakes

Swedish pancakes are perfect for a variety of occasions:

Holiday Breakfasts: These pancakes make a festive breakfast on Christmas, Midsummer, or Easter, especially when served with traditional toppings.
Brunch Gathering: They’re an impressive and elegant addition to a brunch spread and can be made ahead of time, making hosting easier.
Weeknight Dinners: Due to their simple and quick preparation, they make a delightful and comforting dinner, especially when served with a variety of toppings for a make-your-own pancake bar.

The Origins of Swedish Pancakes (Pannkakor)

Swedish pancakes are a part of Sweden’s long culinary history and are a variation of the broader category of thin pancakes that exist throughout Scandinavia. The word “pannkakor” literally translates to “pan cakes,” and they have been enjoyed in Sweden for centuries, often served as a simple, comforting meal. These pancakes are commonly served on “Pancake Thursdays” (known as “Pannkaksdagen” in Swedish), a tradition where pancakes are eaten after a bowl of yellow pea soup (Ärtsoppa). This pairing dates back to a time when Swedish households would prepare a hearty meal before the fasting day of Friday, a practice rooted in old Catholic traditions.

Perfecting the Pancake: Achieving the Signature Texture

The key to Swedish pancakes is in their unique texture—thin, delicate, and with slightly chewy edges. To achieve this:

Balancing the Batter: The batter should have a consistency similar to heavy cream. If it’s too thick, the pancakes will be doughy and more akin to American-style pancakes. If too thin, they may tear easily and be closer to crepes.

Blending for Airiness: Blending the eggs and milk until fluffy helps introduce air into the batter, resulting in a lighter pancake. Some traditional recipes may suggest whisking by hand, but the blender method ensures a consistently airy texture.
Cooking Technique: The pan should be medium-hot, allowing for quick cooking but avoiding burning. Ideally, each side should just turn golden brown while retaining moisture and flexibility inside.

Swedish Pancake Variations Across Sweden

While this recipe is for the traditional thin pancakes, different regions in Sweden have their own takes on the beloved “pannkakor”:

Raggmunk: A thicker potato-based pancake that is fried until crispy and often served with pork and lingonberries.
Ugnspannkaka: A baked, thicker version of the pancake that is cooked in the oven, often enjoyed with bacon mixed in the batter for a savory twist.
Plättar: Mini Swedish pancakes cooked on a special pan with several small circular molds. These pancakes are smaller in size but similar in texture and taste to traditional Swedish pancakes.

Topping Ideas Beyond the Traditional

While lingonberry jam and yogurt are the most classic toppings, there are many other ways to enjoy Swedish pancakes:

Cinnamon Apple Compote: Stew apples with cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar for a warm, spiced topping that pairs beautifully with the buttery pancakes.
Coconut and Pineapple Salsa: Create a tropical flair by topping the pancakes with diced pineapple, shredded coconut, and a drizzle of honey for a refreshing and sweet combo.

Cardamom Cream & Orange Zest: Mix whipped cream with a touch of cardamom and top with freshly grated orange zest for a burst of citrus and spice.
Sautéed Mushrooms and Herbs: For a savory approach, sauté mushrooms in butter with thyme and a pinch of garlic, and use them as a filling for the pancakes.

How to Make Swedish Pancakes Kid-Friendly

Swedish pancakes are an excellent recipe to involve kids in the kitchen. Because the batter is simple to make and the pancakes cook quickly, children can participate in pouring the batter, tilting the pan, and adding their favorite toppings. Plus, the fun of rolling or folding them makes for an engaging eating experience. Serve them rolled with jam, sliced fruits, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a kid-approved treat.

Making Swedish Pancakes for a Crowd

If you’re planning to make Swedish pancakes for a larger gathering or brunch:

Batter Preparation: You can easily double or triple the batter recipe and prepare it ahead of time. Store it in a covered container in the fridge, and just stir before using.
Keeping Pancakes Warm: Once cooked, keep the pancakes warm by placing them in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C). Stack them on a baking tray with parchment paper in between layers to prevent sticking.

Pancake Bar: Set up a toppings bar with a variety of sweet and savory options. Have bowls of different jams, fresh berries, nuts, syrups, whipped cream, yogurt, chocolate chips, and even savory options like cheese, smoked salmon, or prosciutto. This allows guests to customize their pancakes to their taste.

Cooking Equipment for Swedish Pancakes

Pan Choice: A well-seasoned cast iron skillet is ideal for cooking Swedish pancakes due to its even heat distribution and natural non-stick properties. However, any non-stick skillet will work well. Using an 8 to 10-inch pan is optimal for achieving the traditional size and shape.
Spatula: Use a thin, flexible spatula for flipping. This helps prevent tearing the delicate pancakes as you turn them over.

Serving Swedish Pancakes for Special Occasions

Swedish pancakes are incredibly versatile and can be adapted for various occasions:

Breakfast in Bed: Treat someone special to breakfast in bed with a beautifully plated stack of Swedish pancakes, a side of fresh fruit, and a cup of coffee.
Holiday Brunch: These pancakes can be elevated for festive occasions like Easter, Christmas morning, or Mother’s Day brunch. Pair them with mimosas, fresh orange juice, or a cup of rich Swedish coffee (koffe) for a complete Scandinavian-inspired meal.

Summer Picnic Rolls: Roll the pancakes with fruit and cream cheese or jam and yogurt, wrap them in parchment paper, and take them to the park for a fun and portable snack.

Global Influence of Swedish Pancakes

While Swedish pancakes are distinctly Scandinavian, similar thin pancakes are enjoyed around the world:

French Crepes: Made similarly but often with more eggs and sometimes a bit of sugar, they are served both sweet and savory.

Russian Blini: Thicker and smaller than Swedish pancakes, blini are often served with savory toppings like smoked fish or caviar.
Dutch Pannenkoeken: These are larger and slightly thicker than Swedish pancakes and are often served with both savory and sweet toppings.

Conclusion

Swedish pancakes are a delicious and versatile dish, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. With their thin, lacy edges and buttery flavor, they offer a delightful combination of textures and can be customized with both sweet and savory toppings. Simple to make and quick to cook, these pancakes are great for any occasion and can be adapted to various dietary needs. Whether enjoyed traditionally with lingonberry jam and cream or creatively with new flavor pairings, Swedish pancakes are sure to become a beloved favorite for all ages.