📝 About This Recipe
Multekrem is the crown jewel of Scandinavian winter desserts, often served as the grand finale to a traditional Christmas Eve dinner. This elegant dish marries the rare, amber-colored 'gold of the North'—the tart and honey-scented cloudberry—with a lush, velvety cloud of whipped cream. Its sophisticated balance of sweetness and wild acidity makes it a timeless testament to the pristine flavors of the Nordic wilderness.
🥗 Ingredients
The Fruit Base
- 350 grams Cloudberries (Multer) (fresh or high-quality frozen and thawed)
- 3-4 tablespoons Granulated sugar (adjust based on the tartness of the berries)
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla bean paste (or the seeds from half a vanilla pod)
The Cream Component
- 500 ml Heavy whipping cream (well-chilled, minimum 35% fat)
- 2 tablespoons Powdered sugar (sifted to avoid lumps)
- 2 tablespoons Sour cream or Crème fraîche (adds a subtle traditional tang)
The Traditional Accompaniment (Krumkaker)
- 6-8 pieces Krumkaker cookies (thin, waffle-style Norwegian cone cookies)
- 1 handful Fresh mint leaves (for a pop of color)
- 12 pieces Reserved whole cloudberries (set aside for final garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
-
1
If using frozen cloudberries, ensure they are completely thawed in a sieve over a bowl to collect any excess juices.
-
2
Place the cloudberries in a small glass bowl and sprinkle with the granulated sugar and vanilla bean paste. Gently toss with a silicone spatula, being careful not to crush the delicate fruit.
-
3
Let the berries macerate at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the sugar to dissolve and draw out the aromatic juices.
-
4
While the berries rest, place your mixing bowl and whisk attachment in the freezer for 5 minutes; a cold bowl ensures the most stable whipped cream.
-
5
Pour the chilled heavy cream into the cold mixing bowl. Begin whisking on medium-low speed to create small, uniform bubbles.
-
6
Once the cream begins to thicken slightly, sift in the powdered sugar. Increase the speed to medium-high.
-
7
Whip the cream until soft peaks form. At this stage, add the sour cream or crème fraîche, which provides a structural stability and a classic Nordic flavor profile.
-
8
Continue whipping until the cream reaches stiff peaks. Be vigilant; you want it firm enough to hold its shape but still smooth and glossy, not grainy.
-
9
Set aside about 2 tablespoons of the macerated berry juice. Reserve a few of the most beautiful whole berries for garnish.
-
10
Using a wide spatula, gently fold the macerated cloudberries into the whipped cream. Use a 'cut and fold' motion to create a marbled effect rather than a uniform orange color.
-
11
Taste the Multekrem. If it needs more sweetness, fold in an extra tablespoon of powdered sugar, but remember the berries should be the star.
-
12
Spoon the mixture into individual glass dessert coupes or a large crystal serving bowl to showcase the golden hues.
-
13
Drizzle the reserved berry juice over the top for a vibrant visual contrast.
-
14
Garnish each serving with the reserved whole berries and a tiny sprig of fresh mint.
-
15
Serve immediately alongside crisp Krumkaker or thin almond lace cookies for the essential textural contrast.
💡 Chef's Tips
Use the highest fat cream available to ensure the dessert feels luxurious and doesn't weep. If cloudberries are unavailable, you can substitute with high-quality cloudberry jam, though you should reduce the added sugar significantly. Avoid over-mixing once the berries are added; the goal is a beautiful streak of orange through the white cream. Always chill your serving glasses beforehand to keep the cream light and airy during the meal. Cloudberries have small, crunchy seeds that are a hallmark of the dish; do not attempt to strain them out or you will lose the authentic texture.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with traditional Norwegian Krumkaker (waffle cones) or Kransekake pieces. Pair with a chilled glass of Sauternes or a late-harvest Riesling to complement the berry acidity. A small glass of cloudberry liqueur (Lakka) served on the side enhances the wild fruit notes. Accompany with a cup of strong, black Scandinavian-style coffee to cut through the richness of the cream. For a modern twist, serve with a sprinkle of crushed ginger snaps for a spicy, crunchy element.