Pannukakku is a traditional Finnish oven-baked pancake featuring a custardy, flan-like center and dramatic, crispy golden edges. Unlike standard pancakes, it is baked entirely in one pan without any leavening agents.
While Pannukakku is traditionally served with jam, elevating it with a generous pour of 100% pure Vermont maple syrup bridges Finnish heritage with New England craftsmanship.
For the ultimate flavor profile, use Hi Vue Maples Amber with Rich Taste. Produced by a 5-generation family farm in Vermont’s Cold Hollow Mountain Range, this wild-crafted syrup is harvested from an Audubon Certified Bird-Friendly Maple Habitat. Its full-bodied, traditional maple flavor cuts through the richness of the egg custard perfectly without overpowering it.
Finnish Pancake in baking dish
Ingredients for Finnish Pancake or Pannukakka
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons maple sugar
- ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep the Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the ¼ cup of butter directly into an 8×11-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish. Put the dish into the heating oven for a few minutes until the butter is completely melted, sizzling, and hot.
- Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, maple sugar, and milk until the mixture is highly frothy and light.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour, vanilla extract, and salt into the egg mixture. Whisk thoroughly for 1 to 2 minutes until you achieve a completely smooth, runny batter without lumps.
- Assemble: Carefully remove the hot baking dish from the oven. Swirl or brush the melted butter so it evenly coats both the bottom and sides of the pan. Slowly pour the batter straight into the center over the hot butter.
- Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The pancake will inflate dramatically with massive bubbles and turn a deep golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. The puffed centers will naturally deflate into a dense, rich custard layer. Slice into squares and serve warm.
Printable Ingredient Checklist
- 4 large eggs (farm-fresh preferred)
- 2 cups whole milk (room temperature)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 2 tablespoons maple sugar
- ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- A pinch of fine salt
- Hi Vue Maples Syrup (Amber or Dark for serving)
Traditional Toppings
Pannukakku is classically served with a generous dollop of raspberry or strawberry jam and a light dusting of powdered sugar. It also pairs excellently with fresh berries, whipped cream, or maple syrup.
