📝 About This Recipe
Kladdkaka is Sweden’s most beloved dessert, a 'sticky cake' that sits somewhere between a molten lava cake and a dense brownie. Originating in the 1970s, its magic lies in its simplicity and the deliberate under-baking that creates a gooey, decadent center encased in a thin, crackly crust. It is the quintessential centerpiece for a Swedish 'Fika'—a social coffee break that celebrates indulgence and connection.
🥗 Ingredients
The Cake Batter
- 150 grams Unsalted Butter (high quality, melted and slightly cooled)
- 250 grams Granulated Sugar (provides the classic chewy texture)
- 3 pieces Large Eggs (at room temperature)
- 120 grams All-Purpose Flour (sifted to avoid lumps)
- 45 grams Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Dutch-processed for a deeper flavor)
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Sugar or Vanilla Extract (authentic Swedish recipes often use vanilla sugar)
- 1/2 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt (to balance the intense sweetness)
- 50 grams Dark Chocolate (70% Cocoa) (finely chopped, optional for extra richness)
Pan Preparation & Garnish
- 1 tablespoon Butter (for greasing the pan)
- 2-3 tablespoons Breadcrumbs (Ströbröd) (traditional Swedish method for coating the pan)
- 1 tablespoon Powdered Sugar (for dusting the finished cake)
- 250 ml Heavy Whipping Cream (chilled, for serving)
- 1 handful Fresh Raspberries (for a tart contrast)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Position the rack in the center of the oven for even heat distribution.
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2
Grease a 20-22cm (8-9 inch) springform pan generously with butter. Dust the pan with breadcrumbs, shaking out the excess; this creates a lovely texture on the cake's exterior.
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3
Melt the 150g of butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and let it cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.
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4
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar together. Do not overbeat; you want them combined and smooth, but not aerated or fluffy, as Kladdkaka should be dense.
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5
Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract (or vanilla sugar) into the egg mixture until well incorporated.
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6
Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and sea salt directly into the bowl. Sifting is crucial to ensure a silky, lump-free batter.
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7
Using a spatula, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stop as soon as no streaks of flour remain.
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8
If using, fold in the finely chopped dark chocolate pieces. This adds 'pockets' of molten chocolate to the sticky center.
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9
Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan and smooth the top with your spatula.
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10
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. This is the most critical step: the edges should be set, but the center should still be quite jiggly when you move the pan.
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11
Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan. As it cools, the center will settle and become that signature 'sticky' fudge.
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12
Once cooled to room temperature (or after chilling in the fridge for an even fudgier texture), run a knife around the edge and release the springform ring.
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13
Dust the top with a light layer of powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful contrast.
💡 Chef's Tips
Never over-bake! If the center doesn't wobble when you pull it out, it will be a dry sponge rather than a Kladdkaka. For the best flavor, use high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa powder which has a lower acidity and darker color. Using breadcrumbs (ströbröd) to line the pan is the secret to a traditional Swedish crust; it adds a subtle crunch that flour cannot provide. If you have time, let the cake rest in the fridge for 2-4 hours after cooling; it makes the texture incredibly dense and truffle-like. To get clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between every single cut.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a generous dollop of unsweetened softly whipped cream (vispgrädde) to cut through the richness. Pair with a handful of fresh tart berries like raspberries or redcurrants to balance the sugar. A strong cup of black coffee or a double espresso is the traditional Swedish accompaniment for Fika. For a modern twist, serve with a scoop of salted caramel gelato or vanilla bean ice cream. Enjoy a slice alongside a glass of cold milk for the ultimate comforting snack.