10+ Best Danish Recipes You Need To Try Once

When it comes to Danish cuisine, it’s not just about pastries (though, let’s be real, they’re pretty amazing).

Denmark’s food scene is a treasure trove of hearty, comforting, and downright delicious dishes that’ll make you feel like you’re dining in a cozy Copenhagen café.

Whether you’re a foodie looking to expand your culinary horizons or just someone who loves trying new flavors, these Danish recipes are about to become your new favorites.

From buttery, flaky pastries to savory classics that’ll warm your soul, this list has it all.

Trust me, once you try these dishes, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t dive into Danish cuisine sooner. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

1. Danish Butter Cookies (Småkager)

Let’s kick things off with a classic that’s probably already stolen your heart—Danish butter cookies.

These little golden bites are buttery, crumbly, and downright addictive.

They’re perfect with a cup of coffee or tea, and they make a great gift (if you can resist eating them all yourself).

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

How to Make It:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and salt.
4. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll the dough into small balls or use a cookie press to create shapes.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Why We Chose It:
These cookies are iconic for a reason. They’re simple, timeless, and universally loved. Plus, they’re a great introduction to Danish baking.

2. Smørrebrød (Open-Faced Sandwiches)

Smørrebrød is the Danish answer to lunch, and it’s anything but boring.

These open-faced sandwiches are a canvas for creativity, topped with everything from pickled herring to creamy avocado.

Ingredients:

• Rye bread slices
• Butter or cream cheese
• Toppings of your choice (e.g., smoked salmon, boiled eggs, cucumbers, radishes, dill)

How to Make It:

1. Spread a thin layer of butter or cream cheese on the rye bread.
2. Add your favorite toppings in an artful arrangement.
3. Garnish with fresh herbs like dill or chives.

Why We Chose It:
Smørrebrød is versatile, healthy, and oh-so-Danish. It’s a lunchtime staple that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

3. Frikadeller (Danish Meatballs)

Move over, Swedish meatballs—Danish frikadeller are here to steal the show.

These pan-fried meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfect with a side of potatoes or pickled veggies.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Butter for frying

How to Make It:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small, flattened meatballs.
3. Heat butter in a pan and fry the meatballs until golden brown on both sides.

Why We Chose It:
Frikadeller are the ultimate comfort food. They’re easy to make and packed with flavor.

4. Æbleskiver (Danish Pancake Balls)

These spherical pancakes are a Danish delight, often enjoyed during the colder months.

They’re fluffy, slightly sweet, and perfect for dipping in jam or powdered sugar.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 tbsp sugar
• A pinch of salt
• Butter for cooking

How to Make It:

1. Mix dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another.
2. Combine the two mixtures to form a smooth batter.
3. Heat an æbleskiver pan and add a small amount of butter to each mold.
4. Pour batter into the molds and cook until golden, turning with a skewer to ensure even cooking.

Why We Chose It:
Æbleskiver are fun to make and even more fun to eat. They’re a unique twist on traditional pancakes.

5. Rødgrød med Fløde (Red Berry Pudding)

This vibrant dessert is a Danish summer classic. It’s a sweet-tart berry pudding served with a dollop of cream—simple yet stunning.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed red berries (strawberries, raspberries, currants)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 cup water
• Whipped cream for serving

How to Make It:

1. Cook the berries and sugar in a pot until soft.
2. Mix cornstarch with water and add to the berries, stirring until thickened.
3. Chill in the fridge and serve with whipped cream.

Why We Chose It:
Rødgrød med Fløde is a celebration of fresh berries and Danish simplicity.

6. Koldskål (Danish Buttermilk Soup)

This chilled buttermilk soup is a refreshing summer treat, often served with crunchy biscuits or fresh fruit.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Lemon zest (optional)
• Biscuits or fruit for serving

How to Make It:

1. Whisk all ingredients together until smooth.
2. Chill in the fridge and serve cold with biscuits or fruit.

Why We Chose It:
Koldskål is light, refreshing, and uniquely Danish.

7. Kartoffelsalat (Danish Potato Salad)

Danish Kartoffelsalat is the ultimate comfort food, especially during summer picnics and family gatherings.

It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh herbs that make it refreshing yet satisfying.

Unlike the American version, Danish potato salad skips mayonnaise and uses a tangy dressing made with yogurt and mustard.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs baby potatoes
• 1 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper

How to Make It:
Boil the potatoes until tender, then let them cool. Cut them into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Add the diced red onion and chives for extra flavor.

Gently fold in the potatoes until they’re well coated. Let the salad chill in the fridge for an hour before serving—it tastes even better when the flavors meld together.

Why We Chose It:
Kartoffelsalat is a fresh and light side dish that pairs well with just about anything.

It’s proof that simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

8. Kringle (Danish Pastry)

This oval-shaped pastry is filled with nuts, cinnamon, or fruit, and it’s a must-try for any pastry lover.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups flour
• 1 cup butter
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup almond paste or fruit filling

How to Make It:

1. Make a dough with flour, butter, and water.
2. Roll out the dough and add the filling.
3. Shape into an oval and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.

Why We Chose It:
Kringle is a Danish pastry masterpiece that’s worth every calorie.

9. Brunede Kartofler (Caramelized Potatoes)

These sweet, caramelized potatoes are a staple at Danish holiday meals.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb small potatoes
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tbsp butter

How to Make It:

1. Boil the potatoes until tender.
2. Melt sugar in a pan until caramelized, then add butter.
3. Toss the potatoes in the caramel until coated.

Why We Chose It:
Brunede Kartofler are a sweet and savory side that’s impossible to resist.

10. Hønsekødssuppe (Danish Chicken Soup)

This hearty chicken soup is a Danish comfort food classic, often served with dumplings or vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 carrots (sliced)
• 1 leek (sliced)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Simmer the chicken in broth until cooked.
2. Remove the chicken, shred the meat, and return to the pot.
3. Add vegetables and simmer until tender.

Why We Chose It:
Hønsekødssuppe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days.

11. Kajkage (Danish Layer Cake)

This layered cake is a Danish celebration favorite, often filled with cream and fruit.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup butter
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup whipped cream
• Fresh berries

How to Make It:

1. Bake a sponge cake and slice into layers.
2. Fill with whipped cream and berries.
3. Frost the outside and decorate as desired.

Why We Chose It:
Kajkage is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion

Danish cuisine is a delightful mix of comfort, tradition, and innovation.

These recipes are just the tip of the iceberg, but they’re a fantastic way to bring a taste of Denmark into your kitchen.

So, what are you waiting for? Pick a recipe, roll up your sleeves, and start cooking.