If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s light, comforting, and steeped in tradition, authentic Swedish pancakes are the perfect choice. These paper-thin delights have been passed down through generations in Swedish households, offering a delicate alternative to thick American pancakes.
Unlike their fluffy American cousins, Swedish pancakes (Svenska pannkakor) are wonderfully thin, slightly eggy, and ideal for rolling or folding around your favorite toppings. Whether you choose classic lingonberry jam, fresh berries, or simply butter and sugar, these pancakes deliver a memorable breakfast experience.
This recipe comes from a Swedish grandmother, passed to her son and granddaughter, remaining unchanged because perfection needs no improvement. It yields about 52 mini pancakes—perfect for feeding a crowd or freezing for quick weekday breakfasts.
Why This Authentic Swedish Pancakes Recipe Recipe Works
Simple Ingredients, Perfect Results
The magic of Swedish pancakes lies in their simplicity. With just eggs, milk, flour, sugar, salt, and butter, you create something extraordinary. The high egg-to-flour ratio produces tender, pliable pancakes that won’t tear when rolled.
Thin Consistency is Key
The batter is much thinner than American pancake batter—closer to heavy cream. This ensures pancakes cook quickly and remain delicate. Many recipes get this wrong, but this authentic version nails the proper consistency.
Resting Time Matters
Allowing the batter to rest for 30 minutes lets the flour fully hydrate and gluten relax, resulting in tender pancakes without toughness. This step separates good pancakes from great ones.
Temperature Control
Cooking at medium heat prevents burning while ensuring proper browning. Too hot, and they’ll burn before cooking through; too cool, and they’ll be pale and rubbery.
Authentic Technique
Using a small ladle and swirling the pan distributes batter evenly, creating uniformly thin pancakes. This traditional Swedish method has been perfected over generations.
Ingredients For The Authentic Swedish Pancakes Recipe
For the Pancakes:
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons melted butter (plus more for cooking)
For Serving:
- Lingonberry jam (traditional Swedish choice)
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
- Maple syrup
- Lemon wedges and granulated sugar
- Butter
Instructions To An Authentic Swedish Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them thoroughly. Add the milk and whisk until completely combined. The mixture should be smooth and uniform.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour, sugar, and salt to the egg mixture. Whisk continuously to prevent lumps. The batter will be quite thin—much thinner than regular pancake batter. This is correct and essential for authentic Swedish pancakes.
Step 3: Incorporate Melted Butter
Stir in the melted butter until fully incorporated. This adds richness and helps prevent sticking.
Step 4: Rest the Batter
Cover the bowl and let the batter rest for 30 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flour to hydrate and creates tender pancakes. Don’t skip this step.
Step 5: Heat Your Pan
Place a non-stick skillet or Swedish pancake pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter and let it melt, swirling to coat the bottom. The pan is ready when a drop of water sizzles immediately.
Step 6: Cook the Pancakes
Using a small ladle (about ¼ cup), pour batter into the hot pan. Immediately tilt and swirl the pan to spread the batter thinly and evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges look set and the bottom is lightly golden. Flip carefully and cook another 30-60 seconds. The pancakes should be tender and slightly golden with some darker spots.
Step 7: Keep Warm and Serve
Stack finished pancakes on a plate and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep warm. Serve immediately with your choice of toppings, or let cool for storage.
Serving An Authentic Swedish Pancakes RecipeSuggestions
Traditional Swedish Style
The most authentic way to serve Swedish pancakes is with lingonberry jam and a dusting of powdered sugar. Roll them up or fold into quarters. Many Swedes also enjoy them with whipped cream.
American-Friendly Options
- Maple syrup and butter
- Fresh strawberries and whipped cream
- Blueberry compote
- Nutella and bananas
- Lemon juice and sugar (British-style)
Savory Variations
While typically served sweet, Swedish pancakes work beautifully with savory fillings:
- Smoked salmon and cream cheese
- Mushrooms and Swiss cheese
- Ham and Gruyère
- Spinach and feta
Presentation Ideas
For brunch gatherings, create a topping bar with various jams, fresh fruits, whipped cream, and syrups. Let guests customize their pancakes for an interactive, fun experience.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
Cool pancakes completely, then stack with parchment paper between each one. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side, or microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Freezer Storage
Swedish pancakes freeze exceptionally well. Layer them between parchment paper, place in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or microwave directly from frozen for 30-45 seconds.
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate. Stir gently before using. You can also cook all pancakes in advance for easy weekday breakfasts or last-minute entertaining.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between Swedish pancakes and crepes?
Swedish pancakes are slightly thicker and sweeter than French crepes, with a softer, more tender texture. They contain more eggs and sugar, making them richer and less delicate.
Can I use a regular frying pan?
Absolutely! While a Swedish pancake pan (plättlagg) with multiple small wells is traditional, a regular non-stick skillet works perfectly. Just make smaller pancakes (4-5 inches diameter).
Why are my pancakes tough?
Overmixing develops gluten, creating tough pancakes. Whisk just until smooth. Also ensure your batter rests for 30 minutes before cooking.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute almond milk or oat milk for regular milk, and use dairy-free butter. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
What if I don’t have lingonberry jam?
While lingonberry is traditional, raspberry jam, strawberry preserves, or even cranberry sauce make excellent substitutes. Any tart berry jam works well.
How do I prevent sticking?
Use a good non-stick pan and add a small amount of butter before each pancake. The melted butter in the batter also helps prevent sticking.
Can I double this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe doubles or triples easily. It’s perfect for large gatherings or meal prep for the week.
Final Thoughts On The Authentic Swedish Pancakes: Why You’ll Love Them
There’s a reason this recipe has been treasured for generations—it’s simple, reliable, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re Swedish by heritage or simply seeking a lighter, more elegant pancake experience, these authentic Swedish pancakes deserve a place in your breakfast rotation.
Their soft texture and mild sweetness appeal to both children and adults. You can enjoy them plain with butter and sugar or dress them up with elaborate toppings. They roll easily without breaking and practically melt in your mouth. Best of all, they require no fancy equipment—just a bowl, whisk, and skillet.
These pancakes are perfect for meal prep. Make a large batch, freeze the extras, and reheat as needed for quick weekday breakfasts. Hosting brunch? They’re guaranteed to impress, especially with a colorful array of toppings displayed buffet-style.
Their cultural significance adds meaning to every bite. You’re not just enjoying breakfast—you’re experiencing Swedish tradition, lovingly passed through generations. According to Swedish Food traditions, these pancakes are often served on Thursdays following pea soup, a custom dating back centuries.
The recipe’s beauty lies in its authentic simplicity. Passed from a Swedish grandmother through her family and shared with the world, it remains unchanged because perfection needs no improvement. Every time you make these pancakes, you honor that legacy while creating new traditions in your own home.
So grab your whisk and bring Sweden into your kitchen. Whether for cozy Sunday mornings or festive holiday breakfasts, these pancakes bring people together—thin, golden, and full of heart.
Try this recipe this weekend and discover why Swedish families have cherished these perfect pancakes for generations.