Swedish Pancakes

Dust these paper-thin Swedish Pancakes with powdered sugar, and stack them high for an easy, elegant breakfast.

Swedish pancakes are what you make when you want something that feels special but doesn’t ask much of you. They’re soft, lacy-edged, and not overly sweet—ready to be rolled or folded around whatever jam, cream, or lemon curd you have lying around. Also known as pannkakor, they’re thinner than your standard American flapjack, less delicate than French crêpes, and simple in the best possible way.

For an easy recipe that takes just over half an hour, you’re serving up something that looks way more impressive than it should. A typical Swedish breakfast might lean more savory—think open-faced sandwiches, cheese, and lots of hard-boiled eggs—but there’s always room for a little morning sweet treat.

I like to make these on Sunday mornings when my family comes to visit. My nieces and nephews love rolling them up and eating them with their hands. And my adult relatives always comment on my expert flipping skills!

Are Swedish Pancakes Healthy?

These Swedish pancakes contain only a small handful of ingredients and offer a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. The eggs and milk deliver a good dose of protein and calcium, along with iron and vitamin A—but the cholesterol and sodium in the dish lean toward the high side. The added sugar amount is moderate compared to many breakfast pastries, but the fiber content is low. Overall, Swedish pancakes can be part of a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation, especially when served with nutrient-rich toppings like fresh berries or yogurt.

There are a few adjustments you can make if you’re looking to suit specific dietary needs. A gluten-free flour blend can easily replace all-purpose flour, and plant-based milks and butters work well in place of dairy. Unfortunately, there isn’t a time-tested egg substitute that works well here, so these aren’t vegan.

Swedish Pancake Toppings

These Swedish pancakes are practically begging to be dressed up with whatever makes you happy. Traditionally, they’re served with lingonberry jam and whipped cream, and Swedes often eat them for lunch or dessert. You can treat these like dessert and top them with chocolate-hazelnut spread, sliced bananas, crushed hazelnuts, or a simple mixture of lemon juice and sugar. Warm berries with crème fraîche are also fantastic on these. If you’re in the mood, try Greek yogurt, hemp hearts, and your favorite granola. I like to eat these with half a cup of blueberries, a dollop of cottage cheese, and a generous drizzle of maple syrup. For savory pancakes, consider a thin slice of ham with a little shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese.

FAQs & Tips

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover Swedish pancakes—sans toppings—in an airtight container in the fridge, separating each one with a sheet of parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay good for up to 3 days. Alternatively, freeze them in a tightly sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently in a skillet.

How Can I Keep My Swedish Pancakes Warm For Serving?

An easy way to keep your Swedish pancakes warm while preparing a batch is to place them on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven, loosely covered with foil to prevent drying out.

How To Keep Swedish Pancakes From Sticking To The Pan

Start with a good-quality nonstick or well-seasoned cast-iron pan and preheat it over medium to medium-high heat—it’s ready when a drop of water sizzles on contact. Lightly grease the pan with butter, oil, or cooking spray before pouring in each pancake. Butter adds flavor but can burn if the pan is too hot, so watch your heat. After adding the batter, swirl it quickly to coat the pan in a thin layer. Wait until the edges look set and slightly dry and small bubbles form on the surface before flipping with a thin spatula. If the pancake tears or sticks, the pan may not be hot enough, you may need more fat, or you might be flipping too soon. The first pancake may stick more as the pan finishes coming to temperature—this is normal.

Serving Suggestions

For dessert or a sweet breakfast, top your Swedish pancakes with this delicious Lemon Curd Recipe and a bit of whipped cream—or better yet, this luscious Cream Cheese Crêpe Filling. They’re also sensational with just a bit of this creamy Cashew Butter Recipe. It’s quite commonplace in Sweden to enjoy these Swedish pancakes alongside a savory dinner, like this really excellent Lentil Soup or this Red Lentil Soup.

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