8 Delectable Swedish Desserts You Must Try

Sweden is renowned for its innovative and comforting desserts, blending simple ingredients with centuries-old traditions. 8 Swedish desserts that will transport you straight to Sweden invite you to experience the heart of Swedish baking, from rich pastries to nostalgic cakes, each bite a tribute to the country’s culinary heritage. Whether you’re looking to impress with something elegant or enjoy a comforting treat, these desserts will captivate both your taste buds and your imagination. Let’s explore these must-try Swedish sweets that deserve a place at your table!

Kladdkaka (Sticky Chocolate Cake)

Kladdkaka is a delightful Swedish dessert known for its rich, gooey texture and intense chocolate flavor. This sticky chocolate cake is incredibly easy to make, making it a favorite among both novice and experienced bakers. When you take a bite, you’ll experience a perfect blend of sweetness and a slightly chewy crust, which pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries.

What makes Kladdkaka stand out is its simplicity. You can whip up this indulgent treat in no time at all, making it a great option for unexpected guests or last-minute cravings. This cake is often enjoyed as a popular Swedish sweet, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round cake pan with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until well combined.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for about 20-25 minutes. The cake should be set around the edges but still slightly gooey in the center.
7. Allow it to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream or berries.

Kardemummabullar (Cardamom Buns)

Kardemummabullar, or Swedish cardamom buns, are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness with the warm, aromatic flavor of cardamom. These buns are soft, fluffy, and have a subtle spice that makes them incredibly comforting. They are great for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or served with coffee during a cozy gathering.

Making Kardemummabullar is quite straightforward, making it an approachable recipe for bakers of all levels. They fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma as they bake, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a complete experience!

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup milk, warmed
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Coarse sugar, for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warmed milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Stir in melted butter, eggs, and salt, then gradually incorporate the flour until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area until doubled, about 1 hour.
3. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cardamom, and cinnamon. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter over it, and sprinkle the filling evenly. Roll tightly and slice into individual buns.
4. Bake the Buns: Arrange the buns on a greased baking sheet and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
5. Finish and Serve: Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar before baking for a lovely finish. Enjoy warm with coffee or as part of a Swedish breakfast spread!

Lingonberry Pie

Lingonberry pie is a delightful Swedish dessert that perfectly balances tart and sweet flavors. The bright, tangy taste of lingonberries shines through a buttery, flaky crust, making it a favorite among berry lovers. Plus, this dessert is simple to whip up, making it a great choice for both beginners and seasoned bakers.

Often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays, this pie is a wonderful addition to the list of Swedish desserts for Christmas. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat. Ready to impress? Here’s how to make it!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or frozen lingonberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 prepared pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the lingonberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir gently to coat the berries.
3. Pour the berry mixture into the prepared pie crust. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
4. Cover with a second pie crust if desired, and cut slits for ventilation or create a lattice top.
5. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg for a nice golden finish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
7. Let cool before serving, and enjoy your delicious Swedish berry tart!

Swedish Cinnamon Buns (Kanelbullar)

Swedish Cinnamon Buns, known as Kanelbullar, are a warm and comforting treat perfect for any occasion. These soft, sweet rolls are infused with aromatic cinnamon and sugar, making them an irresistible delight that melts in your mouth. The addition of cardamom adds a unique twist, creating a flavor that’s distinctively Swedish.

Making Kanelbullar is simpler than you might think! With just a few basic ingredients and some patience for proofing the dough, you can whip up a batch that will fill your kitchen with a heavenly scent. Whether enjoyed with coffee or on their own, these buns are a must-try for anyone looking to explore popular Swedish sweets.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1/4 cup pearl sugar (for topping)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the warmed milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. Then add melted butter, egg, salt, and cardamom. Gradually stir in flour until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Make the Filling: Combine the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle, spread softened butter over it, and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly. Roll it up tightly and slice into individual buns.
4. Bake the Rolls: Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
5. Finish and Serve: Brush warm buns with egg wash and sprinkle with pearl sugar before serving. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best taste!

Prinsesstårta (Princess Cake)

Prinsesstårta, or Princess Cake, is a delightful Swedish dessert that brings together layers of sponge cake, creamy filling, and a luscious marzipan cover. The cake is light, sweet, and has a subtle almond flavor, making it a perfect treat for any celebration. It’s not overly complex, but it does require a bit of time and patience to create the beautiful layers and finish.

This iconic cake is often adorned with a rose on top, making it not only delicious but visually stunning as well. If you’re interested in Swedish pastries to try, this cake is a must! Here’s a simple recipe to make your very own Prinsesstårta at home.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 5 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup raspberry jam
• 2 cups marzipan (rolled out to cover the cake)
• Green food coloring (for the marzipan)
• Pink food coloring (for decoration, optional)
• A fresh rose (for decoration)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sponge Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture and add melted butter. Pour into a greased cake pan and bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
2. Cool and Slice: Once baked, let the cake cool completely. Carefully slice it into three equal layers.
3. Fill the Layers: Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread with raspberry jam, then add a third of the whipped cream. Repeat this process for the second layer, then place the final layer on top.
4. Cover with Marzipan: Roll out the marzipan and tint it with green food coloring. Carefully drape it over the cake, smoothing it out to cover all sides. Trim any excess marzipan from the bottom.
5. Decorate: Use pink food coloring to mold a small rose from the extra marzipan and place it on top of the cake. Add more decorations if desired.

Gräddtårta (Cream Cake)

Gräddtårta, or Swedish cream cake, is a delightful treat that effortlessly combines layers of soft sponge cake with rich cream and fresh fruits. The taste is light, creamy, and just sweet enough to please any dessert lover. This cake is a favorite at celebrations, making it one of the popular Swedish sweets enjoyed year-round.

Making Gräddtårta is quite simple, making it a great option for both beginner bakers and seasoned chefs. With just a few key ingredients, you can create an elegant dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes. It’s perfect for gatherings, birthdays, or even just a sweet moment at home. Plus, you can customize it with various fruits, making it ideal for Swedish desserts with berries, especially during summer.

Ingredients

• 4 eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Fresh strawberries (or preferred berries)
• Optional: berry jam for layering

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually fold in the flour and baking powder, then add the melted butter.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely.
4. Once cooled, slice the cake in half horizontally to create two layers. If using, spread a thin layer of berry jam on the bottom layer.
5. Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
6. Spread half of the whipped cream over the jam layer, then add a layer of fresh strawberries. Place the second cake layer on top.
7. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream, and garnish with extra berries.
8. Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Chokladboll (Chocolate Balls)

Chokladboll, or chocolate balls, are a beloved Swedish treat that’s simple and satisfying. These no-bake delights combine oats, cocoa powder, sugar, and butter, rolled into bite-sized balls and coated in coconut flakes. They offer a rich chocolate flavor with a chewy texture, making them perfect for a quick snack or a sweet addition to your coffee break.

Easy to make at home, Chokladboll is a popular choice among Swedish chocolate desserts. They require just a few ingredients and minimal time, making them a great option for anyone looking to try their hand at Swedish pastries. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed alone, these chocolate balls are sure to please!

Ingredients

• 100g unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup brewed coffee (optional)
• 1 cup desiccated coconut for coating

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the rolled oats, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and brewed coffee (if using). Mix until well combined.
3. Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Roll each ball in desiccated coconut until fully coated.
5. Place the finished chocolate balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Enjoy your Chokladboll as a sweet treat or snack!

Saffransbullar (Saffron Buns)

Saffransbullar, or saffron buns, are a delightful Swedish treat often enjoyed during the festive season. Their rich, golden color comes from saffron, which also imparts a subtle, aromatic flavor that’s hard to resist. These buns are slightly sweet, soft, and fluffy, making them perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack with a cup of coffee.

This recipe is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up these lovely buns that are sure to impress your friends and family, especially during Christmas celebrations.

Ingredients

• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. Warm the Milk: In a saucepan, gently warm the milk and butter until the butter is melted. Remove from heat and add the saffron threads, letting them steep for about 10 minutes.
2. Activate the Yeast: Stir in the sugar and yeast into the warm milk mixture. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it foams up.
3. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the milk mixture to the flour, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Buns: Punch down the dough and divide it into smaller pieces. Roll each piece into long strips and shape them into twists or traditional S shapes.
6. Second Rise: Place the shaped buns on a lined baking sheet. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix the egg yolk with water and brush over the buns. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve: Let them cool on a wire rack before enjoying these lovely saffron buns!

Savor the Flavors of Sweden

If you’re eager to taste these Swedish desserts or want to find local businesses offering Scandinavian-inspired treats, check out our dessert directory to discover small businesses near you. Supporting local shops allows you to savor authentic Swedish-inspired desserts, made with the passion and craftsmanship of your community.

For those ready to try their hand at these iconic desserts at home, why not share your creations with us? Submit your recipe here and become part of a growing community that celebrates global flavors and the joy of creating together.

Swedish desserts are not just about indulgence, they tell the story of Swedish culture and heritage. From the festive semlor to the delicate prinsesstårta, each dessert brings its own piece of Sweden’s heartwarming traditions to your kitchen.

At Creme Filled Churros, we’re here to inspire your next dessert journey. Try these 8 Swedish desserts that will transport you straight to Sweden, and let us guide you through the best of Swedish pastry culture!