Fettisagen – eating semlor
At the beginning of the year, the ‘semla‘ (plural: semlor) or ‘fettisdagsbulle’, a beloved Swedish pastry, makes its big launch. That occasion will only happen once a year. Right before Lent, on the so-called Fat-Tuesday, Swedes trade their cinnamon bun for these buns. The semla is a cardamom-spiced bun with a cut-off top. It is filled with almond paste and topped with whipped cream.
Vaffeldagen – eating vafflor
On March 25th, there are waffles everywhere. This tradition refers to Christian Vårfrudagen, which indeed slightly sounds like Vaffeldagen but is no longer linked to religion. Nowadays it marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring.
Pannkakordagen – eating pancakes
Then we have the Swedish Pancake Day – which happens every Thursday all year long, to be more precise. Here in Sweden, the beloved ‘pannkaka’ (plural: pannkakor) is not part of Sunday’s brunch. It is a special treat on the afternoon, or right after lunch – as a kind of dessert. Traditionally, you will have it with whipped cream and jam. Also, you will notice that the pancake itself is rather savoury than sweet.
Kanelbullardagen – eating banelbullar
Last but not least, the most famous Swedish pastry also has its own special day during the year. The ‘kanelbulle’ (plural: kanelbullar) is celebrated on October 4th. On this special day, you will not find any other bullar than this one. However, you can eat cinnamon buns all year long. The cinnamon bun is perhaps the most internationally recognized of all Swedish pastries. You will probably find it difficult to survive without at least one bun a week. 🙂
Have you tried any of these delicious Swedish pastries? Do you have a favorite one? 🙂
