What Is an Aebleskiver?

Aebleskiver (or æbleskiver) translates to “apple slices” in Danish, though modern recipes don’t always include apples. This aebleskiver recipe creates small, round pancakes cooked in a special aebleskiver pan with hemispherical wells. The result? Perfectly golden, fluffy bites that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Traditionally, they’re filled with apple pieces or jam, but today, you can get creative with aebleskiver fillings like chocolate, berries, or even savory options.

Fun Fact: According to a 2023 survey by the Danish Food Institute, 72% of Danes associate aebleskiver with holiday gatherings, making it a cultural staple.

Why You’ll Love This Aebleskiver Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples like flour, eggs, and milk.
  • Versatile: Customize with sweet or savory aebleskiver fillings.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids love the fluffy texture and fun shape.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Easily adapt for a gluten-free aebleskiver version.

For more Danish culinary inspiration, check out Visit Denmark’s Traditional Recipes.

How to Make

Ready to create your own aebleskiver recipe? Here’s everything you need to know.

Ingredients for the Aebleskiver Recipe

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free aebleskiver)
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs, separated
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (plus extra for the pan)
  • Optional: ½ tsp cardamom for a traditional flavor

Instructions for the Aebleskiver Recipe

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and cardamom.
  2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix egg yolks, milk, and melted butter.
  3. Make the Batter: Add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring until smooth.
  4. Whip Egg Whites: Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter for extra fluffiness.
  5. Heat the Aebleskiver Pan: Place your aebleskiver pan on medium heat and brush each well with melted butter.
  6. Cook the Aebleskiver: Fill each well ¾ full with batter. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges set, then use a skewer to flip them 90 degrees. Cook another 1-2 minutes, flipping again until fully golden and cooked through.
  7. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar and serve with jam or maple syrup.

Pro Tip: For a visual guide on flipping techniques, check out King Arthur Baking’s Aebleskiver Tips.

Creative Fillings and Toppings

Take your aebleskiver recipe to the next level with these ideas:

  • Sweet Fillings: Add a small piece of apple, a dollop of raspberry jam, or a chunk of chocolate before flipping.
  • Savory Twists: Try cream cheese and chives or bacon bits for a brunch twist.
  • Toppings: Drizzle with honey, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, or dip in melted chocolate.

Tips for the Perfect Recipe

  • Use the Right Pan: A cast-iron aebleskiver pan ensures even cooking.
  • Don’t Overfill: Fill wells only ¾ full to avoid overflow.
  • Practice Flipping: Use a wooden skewer or knitting needle for smooth turns.
  • Freeze Extras: Store cooked aebleskiver in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.

Conclusion:

Making an aebleskiver recipe at home is a fun, rewarding experience that brings a taste of Denmark to your kitchen. Whether you stick to the traditional aebleskiver style or experiment with modern fillings, these Danish pancakes are sure to delight. Try this aebleskiver recipe for your next brunch or holiday gathering, and let me know how it goes in the comments! For more pancake inspiration, explore Allrecipes’ Pancake Collection.