Top 10 Finnish Desserts & Sweets

Heritage Web
Heritage Digest
Published in
7 min readJun 29, 2023

Let’s explore a wide range of tempting Finnish delicacies that are guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. From the crunchy, spiced Piparkakku cookies to the sweet and juicy Mustikkapiirakka, aka Finnish blueberry pie, there is something for everyone to enjoy. And for those special occasions, you can’t go wrong with the indulgent Toscakakku, topped with caramel and almonds.

Lastly, no holiday season would be complete without a traditional Joulutorttu — a flaky pastry filled with sweet plum jam that is sure to bring cheer and joy to any occasion. It’s never too late to savor the sweet treats of Finland. So don’t wait any longer and let the baking begin!

1. Pannukakku

If you’re a fan of pancakes, then you absolutely need to try Pannukakku. This Finnish dish is basically a cross between a pancake and a custard, resulting in a heavenly treat that is uniquely its own.

Pannukakku is a cake made with eggs, milk, flour, sugar, and vanilla. When baked, its golden-brown exterior is crispy with a soft interior. Enjoy this tasty cake for breakfast, brunch, or dessert and pair it with fruit, whipped cream, or syrup.

Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, making Pannukakku is a breeze as it requires minimal effort and just a few ingredients. So why not shake things up the next time you’re in the mood for pancakes and try this delightful Finnish dish instead? I guarantee this — you won’t be disappointed!

2. Mansikkakakku

Indulge your sweet tooth with the heavenly concoction of Mansikkakakku, a Finnish delight that will have your taste buds singing! This light, airy strawberry meringue cake is a slice of heaven that will leave you mesmerized. Its delicate layers of soft meringue, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries are beautifully intertwined to create a vibrant, delicious dessert that will impress even the most discerning.

The mere sight of the beautiful, vibrant red strawberries atop the soft white meringue is enough to make anyone drool. Whether you’re enjoying a special occasion, dinner party, or simply treating yourself, Mansikkakakku is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings. So try something new — delight your senses with this Finnish masterpiece and savor every beautiful bite!

3. Runebergintorttu

If you’re looking for a tasty Finnish treat, look no further than Runebergintorttu. This delicious dessert is named after Finnish poet Johan Ludvig Runeberg, who reportedly enjoyed eating them with his morning coffee.

These small cakes are usually prepared with almond flour, breadcrumbs, and a touch of rum. They are decorated with raspberry jam and sugar icing, creating a delightful combination of sweet and nutty flavors. The attractive cylindrical shape of these makes them visually appealing in addition to being delicious.

Whether you’re a fan of Finnish culture or just looking to try something new, Runebergintorttu is definitely worth a taste. So next time you’re on the hunt for a unique dessert, remember Runebergintorttu and give your taste buds a treat they won’t soon forget!

4. Vispipuuro

If you haven’t tried Vispipuuro yet, you’re truly missing out! This Finnish dessert is a delightful treat that’s bursting with flavor. Made from lingonberries and semolina, Vispipuuro resembles a bright pink porridge that’s sweet, tart, and creamy all at once.

Vispipuuro is a popular dessert in Finland which people have enjoyed for generations. Served with sugar, fresh cream, or whipped cream, it is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings throughout the year. With each spoonful, you can taste the unique flavors of Vispipuuro and feel as if you are sitting in a snow-covered log cabin in the heart of a Finnish forest. So why not try it out today? Your taste buds will thank you!

5. Tippaleipä

Have you ever tasted the delicious Finnish pastry known as Tippaleipä? No? You’re definitely missing out! This crispy, twirled treat is a staple at summer festivals and carnivals in Finland.

The thin egg batter is poured through a piping bag into a deep fryer in a tangled manner, resulting in an irregularly-shaped, golden brown treat, and is typically dusted with powdered sugar. The result is a mouth-watering Finnish funnel cake that’s both crunchy and sweet.

Whether you’re enjoying Tippaleipä with a cup of coffee or as a snack on-the-go, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. So why not try something new and indulge in the wonderful world of Finnish pastries by sinking your teeth into a tasty Tippaleipä today? Trust me, your taste buds will be so happy you did!

6. Laskiaispulla

Laskiaispulla, also known as Shrove buns, are a quintessential winter dessert in Finland. Imagine, if you will, biting into a fluffy, golden-brown bun stuffed with sweet, rich almond paste and whipped cream that oozes out with each delicious bite. You will experience a heavenly delight as you enjoy the delicious flavors of this Finnish delicacy that will tantalize your taste buds.

Perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or a sweet treat after a day of outdoor winter activities, Laskiaispulla is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings. Give this delectable treat a try — you won’t regret it!

7. Piparkakku

Have you ever had a Piparkakku cookie? No? Piparkakku is a traditional Finnish gingerbread cookie that’s packed full of warm and comforting flavors. Every bite is like a hug for your taste buds.

What makes Piparkakku so special? The unique blend of cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves give this cookie its delightful aroma and unmistakable taste. On chilly days, they’re absolutely perfect with a hot cup of tea or coffee. Plus, the festive shapes and intricate designs of Piparkakku cookies make them a favorite during the holiday season.

Whether you’re enjoying them with friends and family or savoring them all to yourself, Piparkakku cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face. So go ahead, give them a try — your taste buds will be so pleased!

8. Mustikkapiirakka

Get ready to indulge in a delicious Finnish treat, Mustikkapiirakka! This mouth-watering dessert is a traditional blueberry pie with a buttery crust and a tangy yet sweet blueberry filling. Every bite is packed with the natural and juicy sweetness of the wild Finnish blueberries. The pastry of this pie is cooked until it becomes crispy and golden brown, resulting in an ideal dessert with a rustic feel that can be shared among friends and family.

Mustikkapiirakka is not only easy to make, but it is also a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed warm or cooled and topped with whipped cream. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, Mustikkapiirakka is the perfect dessert to tantalize your taste buds!

9. Toscakakku

If you’re looking for a cake that is simultaneously rich, buttery, and crispy, then Finnish Toscakakku is the perfect choice for you! This decadent cake is a staple in Finland, and is beloved for its unique almond caramel topping that creates a crunchy texture and a perfect balance of flavors.

The cake consists of a smooth combination of butter, eggs, and sugar, which is then covered with a copious quantity of sliced almonds and a delectable caramel sauce. Due to its popularity, several variations of the Toscakakku exist, but all deliver a deliciously indulgent treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re in Finland or not, you absolutely must try this cake if the opportunity arises, as it’s a true culinary masterpiece!

10. Joulutorttu

The holiday season brings with it an overwhelming feeling of warmth and joy, and what better way to celebrate than with Joulutorttu — a traditional Finnish pastry that is sure to put a smile on everyone’s faces.

Take a bite of this delicious treat, and you might be transported to a world of snowy wonderlands and cozy log cabins, surrounded by loved ones and the magic of the festive season.

The flaky pastry shell, filled with sweet plum jam, is shaped like a pinwheel or a star, making it the perfect addition to any holiday table. Whether you are sharing them with friends and family, or treating yourself to a well-deserved indulgence, Joulutorttu is more than just a pastry — it is a celebration of togetherness and the hope and happiness that come with the festive season.

So take a moment to savor the flavors of this Finnish delicacy and let the holiday spirit fill your heart with love and warmth.

Wrapping It Up

Finnish sweets and desserts are truly something special. From Piparkakkus to Toscakakku, the variety of flavors and textures allows for a wide range of creative possibilities. Whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying on your own, these delectable treats guarantee a memorable experience that will bring warmth and joy to any occasion.

So the next time you’re looking for a truly unique and delicious treat, be sure to explore the wonderful world of Finnish sweets and desserts!

Hyvää ruokahalua!

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Heritage Web
Heritage Digest

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