Scandinavian culture is renowned for its simplicity and warmth, and the region’s desserts are no exception. The Danish concept of hygge is not limited to Denmark; other Scandinavian countries take equal pride in infusing little comforts into daily life. When it comes to dessert, rich puddings and buns reign supreme, serving as examples of time-honored culinary traditions among both home and professional bakers. Whether you’re traveling to a Scandinavian country soon or are just looking for ways to infuse a little bit of hygge into your life, here are three of the region’s most popular desserts.
Kanelbullar
Kanelbullar, or Swedish cinnamon buns, are fluffy pastries swirled with a buttery cinnamon filling and topped with pearl sugar. They’re a staple in Swedish households, thanks to their irresistible aroma that fills the air as they bake to perfection. We like to enjoy them with a cup of coffee or as a comforting afternoon snack.
Riskrem
Norwegian riskrem is a type of pudding made from creamy rice cooked in milk, traditionally served chilled and topped with a red berry sauce. The smooth texture of the pudding combined with the tangy sweetness of the sauce creates a heavenly combination that makes Riskrem a go-to for Norwegians during festive occasions, especially Christmas.
Æblekage
Æblekage, or Danish apple cake, is a simple yet satisfying dessert featuring layers of stewed apples, buttery breadcrumbs, and whipped cream. The tartness of the apples beautifully complements the sweet cream, resulting in a harmonious medley of flavors and textures. This cake is often served cold and garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
