Krumkake: The Delicate Norwegian Treat That Crunches and Melts

A Crisp Bite into History

Imagine a cold Nordic winter, the kind where snow piles high, and the only thing keeping you warm is a roaring fire and something sweet from the kitchen. That’s where krumkake comes in—a delicate, golden, wafer-thin Norwegian treat that’s been delighting families for generations.

Krumkake, which translates to “curved cake,” traces its roots back to Norway, where it became a staple of festive tables and family gatherings. Some say its origins go as far back as the 17th century, when it was cooked over an open fire using decorative irons. Each iron, often passed down through families, imprinted intricate floral or geometric designs onto the cookies, making them as beautiful as they are delicious.

When Norwegian immigrants set sail for new lands, they carried their traditions with them, including their krumkake irons. This is why you’ll find krumkake not just in Norway but also in parts of the United States, especially in regions with a strong Scandinavian heritage, like Minnesota and North Dakota.

Variations from Near and Far

While the classic krumkake recipe is a simple combination of eggs, sugar, butter, flour, and cream, there are plenty of variations to keep things interesting. Some families add cardamom for a touch of warmth, while others dip their krumkake in chocolate for an extra indulgence.

In Norway, krumkake is traditionally shaped into a cone and left unfilled, allowing its delicate texture and subtle sweetness to shine. But over time, creative minds have experimented with fillings like whipped cream, fruit, or even sweetened cheese. Across the Atlantic, American variations tend to be slightly thicker and often filled with all manner of sweet delights.

What Makes Krumkake So Special?

It’s light. It’s crisp. It’s the perfect blend of buttery richness and melt-in-the-mouth sweetness. The magic of krumkake lies in its delicate balance—just enough sugar to satisfy, but not so much that it overpowers the buttery goodness.

And then there’s the crunch. That first bite, when the paper-thin cookie shatters and then melts away, leaving behind just a whisper of sweetness, is pure bliss. Plus, the intricate patterns imprinted on each krumkake make it a work of edible art, perfect for showing off at holiday gatherings.

Perfect Drinks to Sip Alongside

Krumkake pairs beautifully with a warm beverage. A cup of strong Norwegian coffee is the traditional go-to, its deep, slightly bitter notes balancing the sweetness of the cookie. For those who prefer tea, a lightly spiced chai or an Earl Grey complements the subtle flavours of krumkake beautifully.

If you’re feeling extra festive, a glass of gløgg—a Scandinavian mulled wine infused with spices—makes for a delightful pairing. For a non-alcoholic treat, a steaming mug of hot chocolate with a touch of cinnamon turns krumkake into the ultimate winter indulgence.

Other Foods That Play Nice with it

While krumkake is perfectly delicious on its own, it loves good company. A dollop of cloudberry jam or lingonberry preserves adds a tart contrast that cuts through the richness. For a more decadent treat, a side of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce elevates the experience to new heights.

During the holidays, krumkake often shares the spotlight with other Scandinavian baked goods, like sandbakkels (buttery tart-like cookies) or rosettes (deep-fried, sugar-dusted wonders). If you ever find yourself at a Nordic Christmas gathering, expect a full spread of these delicate delights.

Health Benefits and a Small Dose of Guilt

Let’s be real—krumkake is not exactly health food. It’s made of butter, sugar, and cream, and that’s why it tastes so ridiculously good. But if you’re looking for a silver lining, the paper-thin layers mean each cookie is light and airy, so you can almost convince yourself that having just one more won’t hurt.

For those watching their sugar intake, some recipes use honey or alternative sweeteners. And if you’re feeling particularly daring, you can swap out some of the flour for almond or oat flour to add a bit of fibre. But honestly, krumkake is meant to be enjoyed as it is—crispy, buttery, and unapologetically indulgent.

Where to Get Your Hands on Krumkake

If you’re in Norway, you’ll find krumkake in bakeries, particularly during the Christmas season. But since krumkake is traditionally homemade, the best versions come straight from family kitchens, made with well-loved irons and passed-down recipes.

Outside of Norway, Scandinavian bakeries and speciality shops sometimes stock krumkake, especially in areas with a strong Nordic influence. And if you’re feeling ambitious, investing in a krumkake iron and making them yourself is the ultimate way to enjoy this treat fresh from the stove.

A Simple Yet Perfect Krumkake Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 large eggs
• 150g sugar
• 120g butter, melted
• 125ml heavy cream
• 150g plain flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp ground cardamom (optional)

Method:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the melted butter, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and cardamom, stirring until smooth.
3. Gradually sift in the flour, mixing until a smooth batter forms.
4. Preheat your krumkake iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Spoon a small amount of batter onto the iron, close it, and cook for about 30 seconds or until golden brown.
6. While still warm, carefully roll the krumkake around a wooden cone or a dowel to shape it. Let it cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your homemade krumkake with a warm drink, good company, and the knowledge that you’ve mastered a piece of Norwegian baking history.