Dessert

Danish Aebleskiver Recipe

Name: Danish Aebleskiver Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Danish
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups flour; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 3/4 cups buttermilk; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3 large eggs, separated; melted butter for greasing pan; apples or jam, optional for filling; powdered sugar or maple syrup, optional for topping

ByRafael Mansero December 17, 2025December 17, 2025

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Introduction

Danish Aebleskiver are delightful, fluffy pancake balls that are perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack. Traditionally cooked in a special pan, they can be enjoyed plain or filled with apples or jam for extra flavor. Let’s explore how to make these charming treats at home.

A black cast-iron pan holds seven small, round, golden-brown balls that look like they are made from a batter, each one puffed up with a smooth top and slightly darker brown spots from cooking. The pan is set on a wooden surface with visible wood grain lines. The balls are evenly spaced, showing a soft texture and light crust. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tbsp sugar
1 3/4 cups buttermilk
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla
3 large eggs, separated
Melted butter for greasing pan
Apples or jam, optional for filling
Powdered sugar or maple syrup, optional for topping

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking soda, and sugar.
Step 2: Add the buttermilk, vanilla, and egg yolks to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 3: Melt the butter, let it cool slightly, then stir it into the batter.
Step 4: Using a hand mixer, whip the egg whites until they hold stiff peaks, then gently fold them into the batter.
Step 5: Heat the aebleskiver pan until hot but not smoking. Brush each cavity with melted butter.
Step 6: Fill each cavity about three-quarters full with batter. If using filling, fill cups one-third full, add a small amount of filling, then cover with more batter.
Step 7: Cook for 1-2 minutes until the batter puffs up. Use a skewer or knitting needle to turn each pancake about 90 degrees, allowing raw batter to spill into the pan.
Step 8: After turning 90 degrees, turn them another 90 degrees to flip completely upside down. Continue cooking and turning occasionally until golden and cooked through.
Step 9: Remove from the pan and repeat until all batter is used.
Step 10: Serve warm, topped with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or jam.

Tips & Variations

For extra fluffiness, be gentle when folding the egg whites into the batter to retain air.
Try different fillings like Nutella, berries, or custard for varied flavors.
If you don’t have an aebleskiver pan, a mini muffin tin can be a substitute, though turning the balls will be more challenging.

Storage

Store leftover aebleskiver in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a warm oven or toaster oven to retain crispness. They are best enjoyed fresh but can also be frozen and reheated as needed.

How to Serve

The image shows seven round, golden-brown bread balls with a slightly crispy top texture inside a black pan with a handle. The bread balls vary slightly in color from light golden to darker brown, showing even cooking. The pan is set on a wooden surface with visible slats. The bread balls are arranged in two rows of three each and one in the center, filling the round slots of the pan perfectly. The texture of the bread looks soft and well-risen, with a smooth, slightly uneven surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 3/4 cups of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How do I know when the aebleskiver are cooked through?

They should be golden brown all around and feel firm when gently pressed with a skewer or fork. Cooking time varies, but usually, a couple of minutes after the final turning is enough.