Introduction: Estonian Desserts
Estonian cuisine is characterized by its simplicity and use of local and seasonal ingredients. Estonian desserts are no exception and often incorporate traditional flavors and ingredients such as berries, dairy products, and rye bread. If you’re looking to try some popular Estonian desserts, here are a few recommendations to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Kama: A Traditional Porridge
Kama is a traditional Estonian porridge made from a mixture of roasted barley, rye, wheat, and peas. The mixture is ground into a fine flour and then combined with buttermilk, kefir, or yogurt to create a thick and creamy porridge. Kama is often served as a breakfast dish, but it can also be enjoyed as a dessert, especially when served with sweet toppings such as honey or jam.
Kohupiimakook: A Creamy Cheesecake
Kohupiimakook, also known as Estonian cheesecake, is a creamy and delicious dessert made from quark cheese, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. The cheesecake is usually baked on a buttery crust made from crushed biscuits and butter, and it’s often served with fresh berries or fruit compote. Kohupiimakook is a popular dessert in Estonia and can be found in most bakeries and cafes.
Vanaema juures külas: Grandma’s House Cake
Vanaema juures külas, or Grandma’s House Cake, is a traditional Estonian layer cake made with a rich buttery sponge cake and layers of jam or fruit compote. The cake is then topped with a sweet frosting made from butter, sugar, and sour cream. Vanaema juures külas is a classic Estonian dessert that’s often served on special occasions such as birthdays and holidays.
Karjase kook: A Shepherd’s Pie
Karjase kook, or Shepherd’s Pie, is a hearty and filling dessert made with a layer of sweetened mashed potatoes and a layer of lingonberry jam or compote. The dessert is then topped with a layer of sweetened sour cream and baked until golden brown. Karjase kook is a comforting and traditional dessert that’s perfect for the colder months.
Leivasupp: Bread Pudding Soup
Leivasupp, or Bread Pudding Soup, is a unique and delicious Estonian dessert that’s perfect for using up stale bread. The dessert is made by soaking stale bread in sweetened milk and then adding cinnamon, cardamom, and raisins. The mixture is then heated until the bread is soft and the soup is thick and creamy. Leivasupp is often served as a warm and comforting dessert during the winter months.
Rukkileib: Rye Bread with Butter and Cheese
Rukkileib, or Estonian rye bread, is a hearty and dense bread that’s often served with butter and cheese as a simple and satisfying dessert. The bread is made with rye flour and often contains seeds such as caraway or flax. Rukkileib is a staple in Estonian cuisine and is often eaten with savory dishes, but it can also be enjoyed as a sweet and filling dessert.
Kringel: A Sweet Cinnamon Roll
Kringel is a sweet and fluffy cinnamon roll that’s a popular dessert in Estonia. The pastry is made from a buttery dough that’s rolled out and filled with cinnamon, sugar, and sometimes nuts and raisins. Kringel is often served with a sweet glaze and is perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat throughout the day. Kringel has become a staple in Estonian cuisine and can be found in most cafes and bakeries.
