Nordic-Style Ponnokukur Pancakes
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Nordic-inspired Ponnokukur Pancakes, a cherished recipe passed down through generations from a grandmother in Fargo, North Dakota. These light and fluffy pancakes are infused with warming spices like cardamom and nutmeg, offering a comforting taste that's perfect for breakfast or brunch. With a base of versatile flour and a creamy texture from the addition of heavy cream, these pancakes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether served plain, topped with fresh fruit, or drizzled with syrup, they embody the heartwarming essence of Midwestern hospitality.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
all-purpose flour
1 cup (can substitute 1/3 cup whole wheat or buckwheat flour)
sugar
2 tablespoons
baking powder
1 teaspoon
salt
1 teaspoon
ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon
grated nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon
eggs
2 (beaten)
milk
1 3/4 cups (can use non-dairy milk)
heavy cream
1/2 cup (can use coconut cream)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon
butter
as needed (for coating the pan)
Instructions
1
In a medium mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, ground cardamom, and grated nutmeg. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
2
In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs until smooth and homogenous. Gradually incorporate half of the flour mixture along with half of the milk, whisking continuously until well combined.
3
Repeat the process by adding the remaining flour mixture and the rest of the milk, whisking until a smooth batter forms.
4
Gently fold in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. For best results, refrigerate the batter for at least 30 minutes. This resting period helps to develop the pancake's texture.
5
Preheat a crepe pan or large skillet over medium-high heat, allowing ample time for even heating. Lightly coat the pan with butter, allowing it to foam but not brown.
6
Pour 3 to 4 tablespoons of batter into the hot pan, tilting the pan as necessary to evenly spread the batter across the surface. After about 30 seconds, or once the edges turn golden brown, carefully flip the pancake using an offset spatula or a pie server to cook the opposite side until golden.
7
To serve, either stack the pancakes directly on plates or layer them with parchment paper in between if preparing for later use. These pancakes can be enjoyed immediately or allowed to cool, then tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to freeze or store them at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Nordic-Style Ponnokukur Pancakes?
They are light and fluffy pancakes infused with warming spices like cardamom and nutmeg, based on a traditional recipe.
Where did this recipe originate?
This recipe was passed down from a grandmother in Fargo, North Dakota, reflecting Midwestern hospitality.
What spices give these pancakes their unique flavor?
The batter is seasoned with ground cardamom and grated nutmeg for a comforting, spiced taste.
How do I ensure the pancakes are light and fluffy?
The use of baking powder, beaten eggs, and a resting period for the batter helps achieve a fluffy texture.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute 1/3 cup of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat or buckwheat flour.
What is the ratio for using whole wheat flour?
You can replace 1/3 cup of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Is buckwheat flour an option for this recipe?
Yes, 1/3 cup of buckwheat flour can be used as a substitute for part of the all-purpose flour.
Can I use a dairy-free milk alternative?
Yes, non-dairy milk can be used instead of the 1 3/4 cups of regular milk.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
Coconut cream can be used as a substitute for the 1/2 cup of heavy cream.
What role does heavy cream play in the batter?
Heavy cream provides a rich, creamy texture that makes the pancakes more indulgent.
Why is it important to sift the dry ingredients?
Sifting ensures the flour and spices are evenly distributed and the batter remains smooth.
How should the eggs be prepared before adding to the mix?
The eggs should be beaten until they are smooth and homogenous.
Why must the batter rest for 30 minutes?
Resting the batter helps develop the pancake's texture and allows the spiced flavors to meld.
Should the batter be refrigerated while resting?
Yes, the batter should be refrigerated for at least 30 minutes for best results.
What type of pan is recommended for cooking?
A crepe pan or a large skillet is ideal for even heating.
How do I prepare the pan with butter?
Lightly coat the pan with butter, allowing it to foam but ensuring it does not brown.
How much batter should I use for each pancake?
Use approximately 3 to 4 tablespoons of batter per pancake.
How do I spread the batter evenly in the pan?
Tilt the pan as necessary to spread the batter across the surface immediately after pouring.
How long should I cook the first side?
Cook the first side for about 30 seconds or until the edges turn golden brown.
When is the best time to flip the pancake?
Flip the pancake once the edges turn golden brown and the surface is set.
What tool is best for flipping these pancakes?
An offset spatula or a pie server is recommended for carefully flipping the pancakes.
How should I serve the pancakes if eating immediately?
You can stack the hot pancakes directly on plates to serve.
How do I store pancakes for future use?
Layer them with parchment paper and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
How long do these pancakes stay fresh at room temperature?
They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days if tightly wrapped.
Can Nordic-Style Ponnokukur Pancakes be frozen?
Yes, they can be frozen if they are tightly wrapped in plastic wrap.
What are common topping suggestions?
They are excellent served plain, with fresh fruit, or drizzled with syrup.
Is this recipe suitable for brunch?
Yes, these pancakes are perfect for both breakfast and brunch occasions.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 11 specific ingredients, including spices and pantry staples.
Does this recipe include vanilla?
Yes, one teaspoon of vanilla extract is folded into the batter for extra flavor.
What tags are associated with this dish?
The dish is tagged as Icelandic, Nordic, Midwestern, and comfort food.