📝 About This Recipe
A cornerstone of Danish hygge, Æbleskiver are delightful, spherical pancakes traditionally served during the advent season and Christmas markets. Though the name literally translates to 'apple slices,' modern versions are prized for their light, airy interior achieved through whipped egg whites and a hint of cardamom. These golden globes are more than a treat; they are a warm, communal experience best enjoyed straight from the specialized pan with a dusting of snow-white sugar.
🥗 Ingredients
The Batter Base
- 2 cups All-purpose flour (sifted)
- 2 cups Buttermilk (at room temperature)
- 3 large Eggs (separated into yolks and whites)
- 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground cardamom (freshly ground for best aroma)
- 1 teaspoon Lemon zest (finely grated)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
For the Pan and Filling
- 4-6 tablespoons Unsalted butter (for greasing the pan wells)
- 1 small Tart apple (peeled and finely diced (optional traditional filling))
Traditional Accompaniments
- 1/2 cup Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 1 cup Raspberry or Strawberry jam (for dipping)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cardamom, and lemon zest until well combined.
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2
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, buttermilk, and 4 tablespoons of melted butter until smooth.
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3
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk mixture. Whisk gently until just combined; it is okay if there are a few small lumps. Do not overmix.
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4
In a clean, grease-free bowl (preferably metal or glass), beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. They should be firm but not dry.
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5
Gently fold one-third of the egg whites into the batter to lighten it, then fold in the remaining whites using a rubber spatula until no white streaks remain. This ensures the spheres are incredibly airy.
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6
Place your æbleskiver pan (cast iron is traditional) over medium-low heat. Let it get thoroughly hot before you begin.
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7
Place a small pea-sized piece of butter into each well of the pan. It should sizzle immediately upon contact.
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8
Fill each well about 3/4 full with batter (roughly 2 tablespoons). If using apples, drop 2-3 tiny pieces of diced apple into the center of the wet batter now.
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9
Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown and the edges begin to set. Use a wooden skewer or knitting needle to check the edge.
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10
The 'Quarter-Turn' Technique: Using the skewer, grab the edge of the pancake and turn it 90 degrees (sideways). This allows some raw batter to flow out into the bottom of the well, creating the spherical shape.
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11
After another minute, use the skewer to flip the pancake the rest of the way over so the top is now at the bottom. The ball should now be sealed.
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12
Continue cooking for 2-3 more minutes, rotating occasionally to ensure even browning, until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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13
Transfer the finished æbleskiver to a wire rack or a warm oven while you repeat the process with the remaining batter, remembering to butter the wells between each batch.
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14
Dust generously with powdered sugar while still warm and serve immediately.
💡 Chef's Tips
Temperature control is key: if they brown too fast, they will be raw inside; use medium-low heat. Always use a wooden skewer or knitting needle for the 'flick'—it provides much better control than a fork. Don't skip the lemon zest and cardamom; they provide the essential 'Scandinavian' flavor profile. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute with 2 cups of milk mixed with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice (let sit for 5 minutes). For the lightest texture, fold the egg whites in at the very last second and don't let the batter sit too long.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a side of high-quality raspberry or blackcurrant jam for dipping. Pair with a hot mug of Gløgg (Scandinavian mulled wine) for the ultimate holiday experience. For a modern twist, serve with a side of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup. Accompany with a strong cup of dark roast coffee to balance the sweetness of the powdered sugar. Offer a small bowl of granulated sugar alongside the jam for the most traditional Danish presentation.