Lefse, a traditional Norwegian flatbread, has gained popularity worldwide for its versatility and delicious taste. Whether you’re looking for sweet or savory options, lefse can be used as a wrap, side dish, or even as a base for creative snacks. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering lefse recipes that will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. From classic pairings like butter and sugar to innovative combinations like smoked salmon and cream cheese, these recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Traditional Norwegian Lefse with Butter and Sugar
A classic Scandinavian treat, lefse is a thin, delicate pancake typically served with butter and sugar. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making authentic Norwegian-style lefse at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water, stirring with a fork until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
7. Cook the lefse for 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side, until lightly browned and crispy.
8. Serve warm with melted butter and sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato Lefse with Cinnamon
This recipe combines the classic Norwegian lefse with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and a hint of warm cinnamon. The result is a deliciously flavored, crispy-soft flatbread perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, flour, salt, and baking powder. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the cinnamon and mix well.
3. Gradually add the warm water, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and pliable.
5. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
7. Brush both sides with vegetable oil.
8. Cook the lefse in a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
Cooking Time: About 2-3 minutes per side, total cooking time: 6-9 minutes.
Savory Garlic and Herb Lefse
Lefse, a traditional Norwegian flatbread, gets a flavorful boost with this savory garlic and herb variation. Perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water while stirring with a fork until a dough forms.
3. Add melted butter, garlic, parsley, dill, and thyme. Mix until well combined.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Cook lefse on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side, or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Lefse Wrapped Scandinavian Meatballs
Wrap up a flavorful Scandinavian treat with this simple and delicious recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-16 lefse (Scandinavian flatbread)
– Butter or cooking spray for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the meat mixture into 12-16 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball.
4. Brush one side of each lefse with butter or cooking spray.
5. Place a meatball in the center of each lefse, leaving a small border around it.
6. Fold the lefse over the meatball to form a triangle or rectangle shape, pressing gently to seal.
7. Place wrapped meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the lefse is golden brown and the meatballs are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve warm and enjoy!
Lefse Breakfast Burrito with Eggs and Cheese
Lefse Breakfast Burrito with Eggs and Cheese: A flavorful twist on a classic breakfast burrito, this recipe combines the soft, chewy texture of Norwegian lefse with scrambled eggs, melted cheese, and savory fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of lefse
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced ham or bacon
– 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Scramble the eggs in the skillet until they’re fully cooked. Set aside.
3. Warm the lefse by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the burrito by spreading scrambled eggs down the center of each piece of lefse, followed by shredded cheese, diced ham or bacon, and canned black beans.
5. Fold the lefse over the filling to form a burrito shape.
6. Cook the burritos in the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and the lefse is crispy.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lefse and Smoked Salmon Roll-Ups
A delicate combination of traditional Norwegian lefse and smoked salmon, these roll-ups are an elegant addition to any gathering. Perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lefse sheets (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 pound smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place a lefse sheet on a flat surface.
3. Spread about 1 tablespoon of cream cheese on the center of the lefse, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Add a small amount of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese.
5. Sprinkle with chopped fresh dill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roll up the lefse tightly but gently, starting from one end.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (optional: bake in preheated oven for an additional 5-7 minutes if desired).
Lefse with Lingonberry Jam and Cream
Experience the classic Swedish treat by combining crispy lefse with sweet and tangy lingonberry jam, topped with a dollop of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lefse (or Norwegian flatbread)
– 1 cup lingonberry jam
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the lefse on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
3. While the lefse is baking, prepare the whipped cream by whipping heavy cream with a pinch of sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Remove the lefse from the oven and let it cool slightly.
5. Spread a spoonful of lingonberry jam onto each piece of lefse.
6. Top the jam with a dollop of whipped cream.
7. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including baking time)
Lefse Pizza with Mozzarella and Basil
Combine the warmth of Norwegian lefse with the flavors of Italy for a unique pizza experience. This recipe is perfect for adventurous foodies looking to try something new!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lefse (Norwegian potato flatbread)
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place a lefse on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
3. Spread a small amount of olive oil on the lefse, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the lefse.
5. Top with chopped basil leaves.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lefse Tacos with Spiced Beef and Avocado
Experience the bold flavors of Norway and Mexico in this unique recipe, where traditional lefse is transformed into a crispy taco shell wrapped around tender spiced beef and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lefse
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the beef, stirring to combine.
4. Warm lefse by wrapping in foil and heating in the oven for 5-7 minutes or microwaving for 10-15 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing a spoonful of spiced beef onto a warmed lefse, topping with diced avocado, and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lefse Apple Cinnamon Rolls
A delicious twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, these Lefse Apple Cinnamon Rolls combine the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of caramelized apples. Perfect for a special breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup applesauce
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or other variety)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, applesauce, and diced apples; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Sprinkle cinnamon evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Roll up dough tightly, starting from one end.
7. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lefse and Ham Sandwich with Mustard
A classic Scandinavian-inspired sandwich that combines the flaky goodness of lefse (Norwegian flatbread) with savory ham and tangy mustard. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 lefse sheets
– 4 slices of cooked ham
– 1 tablespoon of mustard (e.g., Dijon or yellow mustard)
– Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Lay out one lefse sheet.
2. Place two slices of ham on top of the lefse, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Spread a layer of mustard over the ham.
4. Add lettuce leaves if desired for extra crunch.
5. Fold the sides of the lefse inward to create a rectangular shape, then roll up the sandwich tightly.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick assembly-only recipe.
Lefse with Caramelized Onions and Goat Cheese
Traditional Norwegian Lefse gets a modern makeover with the addition of caramelized onions and creamy goat cheese. This unique combination is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 3/4 cup warm water
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 8 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Add lard or shortening and warm water; mix until dough forms.
4. Divide dough into 8 equal pieces; roll each piece into a thin circle.
5. Brush one side of each lefse with butter.
6. Top with caramelized onions, crumbled goat cheese, and fresh thyme leaves.
7. Fold the lefse in half to enclose filling; press edges to seal.
8. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To caramelize onions, cook sliced onions in butter over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dark golden and sweet.
Lefse Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Roll
A delicious twist on traditional chocolate spreads, this recipe combines the flavors of Norway’s beloved Lefse with rich hazelnuts and decadent chocolate. Perfect for snacking or as a dessert topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Lefse spread
– 2 tablespoons hazelnut spread
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 12-16 sheets of phyllo dough (thawed)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together Lefse spread, hazelnut spread, confectioners’ sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
4. Layer phyllo dough on the prepared baking sheet, brushing each sheet with melted butter and Lefse-hazelnut spread mixture.
5. Roll up phyllo dough tightly, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border at one end. Repeat with remaining dough.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lefse with Peanut Butter and Banana Slices
A sweet and savory twist on the traditional Scandinavian flatbread, lefse is a delicious base for a tasty treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large lefse (or substitute with tortilla or crepe)
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 ripe banana slices
– Optional: honey, chopped nuts, or sprinkles for extra flavor and fun
Instructions:
1. Warm the lefse by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 10-15 seconds.
2. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of peanut butter on each lefse, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Arrange banana slices on top of the peanut butter.
4. Fold the lefse in half over the filling to create a triangle or a square shape, depending on your preference.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembling only)
Lefse and Turkey Club Wrap
Elevate your lunch game with this unique combination of Norwegian lefse, crispy bacon, juicy turkey, and creamy avocado. This satisfying wrap is perfect for a quick and delicious meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 large lefse
– 2 slices of cooked turkey breast
– 4 slices of crispy bacon
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise
– 1 lettuce leaf
– 1 tomato slice
Instructions:
1. Lay the lefse flat on a clean surface.
2. Arrange the turkey slices in the center of the lefse.
3. Top with crispy bacon, sliced avocado, and a sprinkle of mayonnaise.
4. Add a lettuce leaf and tomato slice to complete the wrap.
5. Fold the sides of the lefse over the filling, then roll up tightly.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is ready in 2 minutes or less.
Lefse with Blueberries and Whipped Cream
Sweet and Tart Lefse with Blueberries and Whipped Cream Recipe
A classic Scandinavian flatbread, lefse is a perfect canvas for sweet and tangy blueberry filling, topped with fluffy whipped cream. This simple dessert recipe combines the best of both worlds in just a few easy steps.
Ingredients:
– 1 package lefse mix
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Follow package instructions to prepare lefse dough.
3. Roll out lefse into thin sheets, about 1/8 inch thick.
4. In a separate bowl, mix blueberries and granulated sugar.
5. Place a spoonful of blueberry mixture onto one half of the lefse sheet, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Fold the other half over filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden brown.
8. Allow lefse to cool slightly before topping with whipped cream.
Whipped Cream:
1. In a medium bowl, whip heavy whipping cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lefse and Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap
Experience the flavors of Norway wrapped up in a delicious and easy-to-make wrap. This recipe combines traditional lefse with grilled chicken, crispy romaine lettuce, and creamy caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of lefse (Norwegian flatbread)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup caesar dressing
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, warm lefse according to package instructions.
4. Assemble wrap by spreading caesar dressing on warmed lefse, followed by chopped romaine lettuce, grilled chicken, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lefse with Honey and Almond Butter
Lefse, a traditional Norwegian flatbread, gets a sweet twist with the addition of honey and almond butter. This sweet treat is perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 tablespoons almond butter
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and warm water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired thickness.
4. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Brush with vegetable oil and sprinkle with honey and almond butter.
6. Fold in half to form a triangle or a half-moon shape.
7. Cook in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30-45 seconds on each side, until slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes per side
Lefse and Veggie Hummus Roll
This recipe combines the traditional Norwegian flatbread, lefse, with a creamy veggie hummus filling for a unique and tasty snack. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lefse (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Assorted veggies, such as carrots, bell peppers, and cucumber, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of the hummus mixture onto each lefse, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll up each lefse tightly but gently, starting from one end.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite veggies on top.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Lefse with Maple Syrup and Walnuts
Sweet Lefse with Maple Syrup and Walnuts Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the classic Scandinavian flatbread, lefse, with the richness of maple syrup and crunch of walnuts for a sweet and savory treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
6. Brush with vegetable oil and sprinkle with maple syrup.
7. Top with chopped walnuts.
8. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30-45 seconds on each side, until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 2 minutes per lefse (total of 16 minutes)
Serve warm and enjoy!
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 20 delicious lefse recipes! From traditional Norwegian lefse with butter and sugar, to sweet potato lefse with cinnamon and savory garlic and herb lefse, there’s something for every occasion. Try wrapping Scandinavian meatballs or making a breakfast burrito with eggs and cheese. Or get creative with lefse pizza, tacos, apple cinnamon rolls, and more! Whether you’re in the mood for sweet or savory, these recipes will satisfy your cravings and take your taste buds on a culinary journey around the world.
