Just about every culinary culture has pancakes. You know that chain pancake place over by the highway? They claim to be 'International', but they only offer us French Toast and Belgian Waffles. What other international delights are they keeping from us?


Ålandspannkaka

Ålandspannkaka

Photo: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Åland_pancake#/media/File:Ålandspannkaka.jpg

Åland pancake, or Ålandspannkaka, is a traditional dessert from the Åland Islands, a region of Finland. Unlike typical pancakes, Åland pancake is baked in the oven, giving it a custard-like consistency with a rich, dense texture. The batter is made from a mix of semolina or rice pudding, eggs, milk, sugar, and a touch of cardamom for flavor. This combination creates a uniquely fragrant and hearty pancake that’s more like a thick, flavorful pudding than a flat pancake.

Traditionally, Åland pancake is served with a dollop of whipped cream and a generous spoonful of prune or berry jam, adding a sweet, fruity contrast to the pancake’s creamy base. It’s a popular dish for special occasions and is often enjoyed as a dessert or a hearty afternoon snack.

Ålandspannkaka Recipe (Åland Islands Pancake)

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

  • Semolina – 1 cup
  • Milk – 4 cups
  • Sugar – ½ cup
  • Cardamom – 1 teaspoon (ground)
  • Eggs – 2 large
  • Butter – 2 tablespoons (melted)
  • Salt – ¼ teaspoon
  • Cinnamon – For sprinkling (optional)
  • Butter or oil – For greasing the baking dish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Semolina Porridge

  1. In a large saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm. Gradually whisk in the semolina to avoid lumps.
  2. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a smooth porridge (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Batter

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and grease a large baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, cardamom, and salt until well combined.
  3. Slowly mix the cooled semolina porridge into the egg mixture. Add the melted butter and stir until smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Pancake

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
  2. Sprinkle a light layer of cinnamon on top (optional).
  3. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the pancake is golden brown and set in the center.
  4. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Ålandspannkaka is traditionally served warm or at room temperature with:

  • Prune jam or any fruit preserves
  • Whipped cream
  • Fresh berries
Name_ Ålandspannkaka
Origin_ 🇫🇮 Finland
Morphology_ ☰ flat
Flavor_ sweet
Filling_ spices
Topping_ cream, jam
Recipe_ Ålandspannkaka Recipe
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