15 Scandinavian-Inspired Holiday Recipes Perfect for Cozy Thanksgiving Dinners

15 Scandinavian-Inspired Holiday Recipes Perfect for Cozy Thanksgiving Dinners

Hearty Swedish Meatballs in Cream Sauce

hearty meatballs in cream sauce

Hearty Swedish meatballs in cream sauce are a comforting dish that brings a taste of Scandinavian home-cooking to your holiday table. These tender meatballs are flavored with spices and served in a rich, creamy sauce, making them perfect for a cozy gathering or festive meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Ground beef 1 pound
Ground pork 1/2 pound
Bread crumbs 1/2 cup
Milk 1/4 cup
Onion (finely chopped) 1 medium
Egg 1 large
Nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon
Allspice 1/4 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Butter 3 tablespoons
Flour 2 tablespoons
Beef broth 2 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Parsley (chopped) For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, bread crumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs.
  2. In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
  4. Add heavy cream, return meatballs to the skillet, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until cooked through.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley. Enjoy your hearty Swedish meatballs!
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Traditional Danish Roast Pork With Crackling

crispy roast pork delight

Traditional Danish Roast Pork with Crackling is a beloved dish in Scandinavian cuisine that showcases the rich flavors of succulent pork combined with crispy, crunchy skin. Perfect for festive gatherings or a hearty family meal, this roast is typically served with classic sides like red cabbage and potato dumplings.

Ingredients Quantity
Pork roast (with skin) 3-4 pounds
Coarse sea salt 2 tablespoons
Black pepper 1 teaspoon
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Fresh rosemary (chopped) 1 tablespoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Water 1 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
  2. Score the skin of the pork roast in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.
  3. Rub the roast with olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary.
  4. Place the roast in a roasting pan, skin side up, and pour water into the pan.
  5. Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the skin starts to crackle.
  6. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue to roast for another 1.5 to 2 hours, basting occasionally, until the meat is tender.
  7. Allow the roast to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your traditional Danish roast pork!
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Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

creamy salmon potato soup

Finnish Salmon Soup, known as Lohikeitto, is a comforting and creamy dish that highlights the fresh flavors of salmon, potatoes, and dill, making it a perfect choice for chilly days. This traditional soup is not only hearty but also quick to prepare, making it a favorite among families in Finland and beyond.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh salmon fillet 1 pound
Potatoes 2 medium-sized
Carrot 1 medium
Onion 1 medium
Leeks 1 small
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Fresh dill 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Butter 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat and sauté chopped onions, leeks, and carrots until softened.
  2. Add diced potatoes and vegetable broth, bringing it to a boil. Cook until potatoes are tender.
  3. Reduce the heat and add diced salmon, cooking until the fish turns opaque.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream, fresh dill, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional few minutes.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with extra dill if desired. Enjoy your Finnish Salmon Soup!
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Norwegian Root Vegetable Mash

hearty scandinavian root vegetable mash

Norwegian Root Vegetable Mash, known as “Rotmos,” is a hearty and nourishing side dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and rutabaga. This comforting mash is a perfect accompaniment to various meats, especially during holiday feasts, embodying the spirit of traditional Scandinavian cuisine.

Ingredients Quantity
Potatoes 2 medium-sized
Carrots 2 medium-sized
Rutabaga 1 small
Butter 4 tablespoons
Heavy cream or milk ½ cup
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Peel and chop the potatoes, carrots, and rutabaga into uniform pieces.
  2. Place the chopped vegetables in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
  3. Bring to a boil and cook until all vegetables are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
  4. Drain the vegetables and return them to the pot. Add butter and heavy cream (or milk).
  5. Mash the vegetables until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Serve warm as a delicious side dish to your favorite meat entrees. Enjoy your Norwegian Root Vegetable Mash!
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Classic Swedish Lingonberry Sauce

tangy sweet swedish sauce

Classic Swedish Lingonberry Sauce is a tangy and sweet condiment that is a staple in Swedish cuisine, particularly served alongside dishes such as meatballs, game meats, or even pancakes. This vibrant red sauce is made from lingonberries, which are similar to cranberries, and brings a delightful contrast to rich and savory foods, making it a must-have for holiday feasts.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh or frozen lingonberries 2 cups
Sugar 1 cup
Water ½ cup
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine lingonberries, sugar, and water.
  2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a gentle boil and the berries burst, about 10-15 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice; let the sauce cool.
  4. Serve warm or chilled as a delightful accompaniment to various dishes. Enjoy your Classic Swedish Lingonberry Sauce!
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Icelandic Lamb Stew

hearty icelandic lamb stew

Icelandic Lamb Stew is a hearty and comforting dish that features tender chunks of lamb slow-cooked with root vegetables and aromatics. This dish is a staple in Icelandic cuisine, perfect for warming up during the long, cold winters. The rich flavors of the lamb combined with the sweetness of the vegetables make it an excellent meal for festive gatherings or family dinners.

Ingredients Quantity
Lamb shoulder, cubed 2 pounds
Onion, chopped 1 large
Carrots, sliced 2 medium
Potatoes, diced 4 medium
Celery, chopped 2 stalks
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Beef or lamb broth 4 cups
Bay leaves 2
Fresh thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Olive oil 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and brown the cubed lamb on all sides.
  2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
  3. Stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes, then add the broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender.
  5. Remove bay leaves before serving, and enjoy your hearty Icelandic Lamb Stew!
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Cardamom-Spiced Scandinavian Bread

aromatic cardamom spiced bread recipe

Cardamom-Spiced Scandinavian Bread is a delightful, aromatic bread that captures the essence of Scandinavian baking. This sweet, spiced bread is often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays, offering a warm and comforting flavor that pairs wonderfully with butter or cheese. The fragrant hint of cardamom makes this bread a unique treat that can be served alongside various dishes or enjoyed on its own with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 4 cups
Instant yeast 2 teaspoons
Ground cardamom 1 teaspoon
Sugar 1/4 cup
Salt 1 teaspoon
Milk (warm) 1 cup
Butter (melted) 1/4 cup
Eggs 2 large
Egg (for egg wash) 1 (beaten)
Raisins (optional) 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, cardamom, sugar, and salt.
  2. Mix warm milk and melted butter, and add to the dry ingredients along with the eggs. Stir until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
  5. Punch down the dough and knead in the raisins, if using. Shape into a loaf or round, place on a baking sheet, and cover for another 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top with the beaten egg.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before slicing, and enjoy your Cardamom-Spiced Scandinavian Bread!
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Norwegian Potato Lefse

traditional norwegian flatbread recipe

Norwegian Potato Lefse is a traditional flatbread made from potatoes, flour, and sometimes milk or cream. This soft, pillowy bread is a beloved staple in Norwegian cuisine, often enjoyed during the holidays and special gatherings. Lefse can be served with various toppings, such as butter, sugar, or cinnamon, and is perfect for wrapping around meats or cheeses.

Ingredients Quantity
Potatoes (mashed) 2 cups
All-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups
Butter (melted) 1/4 cup
Milk or cream 1/4 cup
Sugar 2 tablespoons
Salt 1/2 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash and let them cool.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, melted butter, milk or cream, sugar, and salt.
  3. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
  4. Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball out on a floured surface, keeping it thin.
  5. Cook the rolled-out dough on a hot griddle or skillet for about 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
  6. Stack the cooked lefse on a plate and cover with a towel until ready to serve. Enjoy your Norwegian Potato Lefse with your favorite toppings!
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Finnish Karelian Pies With Rice Pudding

traditional finnish pastry recipe

Finnish Karelian Pies, known as “Karjalanpiirakka,” are traditional Finnish pastries with a rice pudding filling encased in a thin rye crust. These savory yet slightly sweet pies are often enjoyed with a spread of butter or egg butter and make for a delicious addition to any holiday table or gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
Ryeme flour 2 cups
Water 1 cup
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Cooked rice 1 cup
Milk 2 cups
Sugar 2 tablespoons
Butter 2 tablespoons
Eggs (for egg butter) 2 (hard-boiled)
Softened butter (for spreading) 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a bowl, combine rye flour, water, and salt to form a dough; let it rest.
  2. Cook rice in milk until soft; stir in sugar and let the mixture cool.
  3. Roll the dough into thin circles, fill with rice pudding, and fold the edges over.
  4. Bake the pies at 450°F (232°C) for about 15-20 minutes until lightly browned.
  5. Serve warm, adorned with egg butter or plain butter. Enjoy your Finnish Karelian Pies!
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Swedish Glogg (Mulled Wine)

warm spiced mulled wine

Swedish Glogg, a traditional mulled wine, is a warm and spiced beverage that is perfect for cozy winter nights and festive gatherings. Typically enjoyed during Christmas time, this aromatic drink combines red wine with a blend of spices, fruits, and often spirits like vodka or aquavit, making it an inviting treat to share with friends and family.

Ingredients Quantity
Red wine 1 bottle (750 ml)
Vodka or aquavit 1 cup
Water 1 cup
Sugar 1/2 cup
Cinnamon sticks 3
Whole cloves 5-7
Cardamom pods 5
Orange zest From 1 orange
Almonds (slivered) 1/2 cup
Raisins 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a pot, combine red wine, vodka (or aquavit), water, sugar, and all the spices.
  2. Heat the mixture gently over low heat, ensuring it does not boil; let it infuse for about 30 minutes.
  3. Stir in the orange zest, almonds, and raisins before serving warm.
  4. Strain into mugs and enjoy the cozy flavors of Swedish Glogg!

Danish Apple Cake With Vanilla Sauce

danish apple cake delight

Danish Apple Cake With Vanilla Sauce is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of baked apples with warm spices, wrapped in a fluffy and moist cake. This classic Danish treat is often served during the colder months and is perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions. The addition of rich vanilla sauce elevates the flavors, making it a comforting and indulgent choice for dessert lovers.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 ½ cups
Sugar 1 cup
Baking powder 1 tsp
Salt ½ tsp
Ground cinnamon 1 tsp
Eggs 3
Milk ½ cup
Unsalted butter (melted) ½ cup
Apples (peeled and sliced) 3 medium
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
For the Vanilla Sauce
Heavy cream 1 cup
Sugar ½ cup
Vanilla extract 1 tsp

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
  3. In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the milk and melted butter. Combine with the dry ingredients until smooth.
  4. Gently fold in the sliced apples, then pour the mixture into the prepared cake pan.
  5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  6. For the vanilla sauce, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan, add sugar and vanilla extract, and stir until thickened.
  7. Serve warm slices of apple cake drizzled with the vanilla sauce. Enjoy!

Norwegian Kransekake (Almond Ring Cake)

traditional scandinavian almond cake

Norwegian Kransekake, also known as Almond Ring Cake, is a traditional Scandinavian dessert that is often served during festive occasions such as weddings, Christmas, and other celebrations. This towering cake is made from a sweet almond-based dough, shaped into concentric rings, and is often decorated with icing for an impressive presentation. The combination of the nutty flavor and slight sweetness makes it a delightful treat that is sure to impress guests at any gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
Almond flour 4 cups
Powdered sugar 2 cups
Egg whites 4
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Almond extract 1 tsp
Icing sugar For decoration
Water For icing

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour and powdered sugar, then add the egg whites, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
  3. Transfer the dough to a piping bag and pipe ring shapes onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure the shapes are consistent in size.
  4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow cooling completely on the baking sheet.
  5. For the icing, mix icing sugar with a small amount of water until a thick consistency is achieved. Decorate the cooled rings with the icing as desired.
  6. Stack the rings in a tower and serve as a festive centerpiece. Enjoy your Kransekake!

Creamy Mushroom Risotto With Dill

creamy mushroom risotto recipe

Creamy Mushroom Risotto with Dill is a comforting and rich dish that combines Arborio rice with sautéed mushrooms and fresh dill for a flavorful experience. This creamy risotto is perfect for a cozy night in or as an elegant side dish for a festive meal. The combination of umami from the mushrooms and the aromatic dill elevates this classic Italian staple to a delightful Scandinavian twist.

Ingredients Quantity
Arborio rice 1 cup
Fresh mushrooms, sliced 2 cups
Onion, finely chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Vegetable broth 4 cups
White wine 1/2 cup
Heavy cream 1/2 cup
Fresh dill, chopped 1/4 cup
Olive oil 2 tbsp
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Parmesan cheese, grated 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a saucepan, heat the vegetable broth and keep it warm over low heat.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; add onions and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
  3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until browned and softened.
  4. Stir in Arborio rice, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly toasted.
  5. Pour in the white wine and cook until mostly absorbed.
  6. Gradually add warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.
  7. Once the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in heavy cream, fresh dill, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan.
  8. Serve warm, garnished with additional dill if desired. Enjoy your Creamy Mushroom Risotto with Dill!

Spiced Carrot and Potato Soup

comforting spiced vegetable soup

Spiced Carrot and Potato Soup is a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for the chilly months. The combination of sweet carrots and hearty potatoes, blended together with aromatic spices, creates a delightful and nourishing soup that is both flavorful and satisfying. This soup is easy to make and can be served as an appetizer or a main dish, ideal for any festive gathering or a cozy night in.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots, chopped 4 medium
Potatoes, peeled and diced 2 medium
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Olive oil 2 tbsp
Ground cumin 1 tsp
Ground coriander 1 tsp
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Fresh parsley, chopped Optional for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat; add onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
  2. Stir in the chopped carrots and diced potatoes, sautéing for a few minutes.
  3. Add ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are tender.
  5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Spiced Carrot and Potato Soup!

Raspberry and Almond Tart

raspberry almond tart recipe

Raspberry and Almond Tart is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of fresh raspberries with the rich, nutty flavor of almonds in a buttery pastry crust. This elegant tart is perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a beautiful presentation and a balance of flavors that will impress your guests. It’s simple to prepare yet looks sophisticated, making it a must-try treat for any festive occasion.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 ½ cups
Unsalted butter ½ cup (1 stick)
Granulated sugar ¾ cup
Almond extract 1 tsp
Egg 1 large
Ground almonds ½ cup
Fresh raspberries 2 cups
Powdered sugar For dusting

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a tart pan.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and softened butter until crumbly; add granulated sugar, almond extract, and egg, mixing until a dough forms.
  3. Press the dough evenly into the tart pan and up the sides; bake for 10-12 minutes until pale golden.
  4. In another bowl, mix ground almonds with remaining sugar and spread over the crust; then layer fresh raspberries on top.
  5. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until set and lightly browned.
  6. Allow to cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving your Raspberry and Almond Tart. Enjoy!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.