In the month of December, Denmark comes alive with cozy traditions that warm both the heart and soul. Among these, Aebleskiver and Gloegg hold a special place – especially if you’re Danish like me! There’s something magical about gathering with friends and family, enjoying the festive ambiance, and sharing a plate of these delicious treats. This experience is what we Danes call Hygge, an atmosphere of warmth, calm, and well-being. It’s about savoring simple pleasures, being present in the moment, and cherishing the company of loved ones. And when the scent of freshly made Aebleskiver fills the room, it’s impossible not to feel that cozy, happy vibe.
The history of aebleskiver
The story of Aebleskiver begins in the 1700s, when they were literal “apple slices” (as their name suggests) – pieces of apple dipped in batter, fried, and enjoyed as a sweet treat. Over time, the recipe evolved, and by the 1870s, the æbleskiver we know today – soft, spherical pancakes – became a Danish favorite. Hans Christian Andersen even described them in his fairy tale The Cripple, and Johan Krohn captured their preparation in the beloved Christmas story Peter’s Jul. These literary mentions cemented their place as a cherished holiday tradition.
Today, Aebleskiver are a staple during the holiday season in Denmark, typically served as a dessert or even as a light dinner with powdered sugar and jam. In the United States, they’ve found a new identity as a versatile breakfast dish, often filled with cheese, berries, chocolate, or even vegetables. While convenient frozen options are widely available, there’s nothing quite like the Hygge of making them from scratch – gathering around the stove, flipping each little pancake to perfection, and savoring the anticipation of that first bite.
Making æbleskiver is more than just cooking; it’s a ritual that brings people together. The process of preparing the batter, heating the special pan, and carefully turning each piece with a knitting needle or skewer creates a rhythm that slows down time. Add some laughter, the warmth of Gløgg in your hand, and the flicker of candles, and you have a moment that embodies Hygge in its purest form.
So this December, why not bring a little Danish tradition into your home? Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them as a family, æbleskiver are a delicious way to create memories and celebrate the season.
Makes about 20
3 egg
0,5 tsp natron
0,5 tsp baking soda
Fine shredded peel from one lemon
7 oz all purpose flour
2,8 oz arrow root
0.5 oz coconut flower sugar
0,5 tsp salt
1 tsp of coriander, cardamom, ground vanilla and husk
16 fl oz of rice or almond milk
1,7 oz of butter
Whisk the egg whites and natron into a firm mass. Mix all dry ingredients in your mixer, and all wet ingredients in a bowl. Slowly add the wed ingredients to the dry, and mix it for a couple of minutes.
Carefully add the egg whites
Heat your aebleskiver pan and add a little coconut oil or organic butter in every spot.
Add dough 3/4 up and wait until it starts getting firm. Turn the aebleskiver and keep baking untill it’s even in color.
Serve with your favorite jam and powder sugar
