Finnish Flat Bread
Finnish flat bread is a hearty, slightly sweet bread with a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or snack, suited for those who enjoy wholesome, rustic baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda in a bowl.
- Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add buttermilk and mix just until the dough is moistened.
- Knead on a floured surface for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Pat the dough onto an ungreased 12-inch pizza pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until golden.
- Cool for 10 minutes before cutting into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer flatbread, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening for a richer flavor. You can also substitute non-dairy milk mixed with a splash of vinegar for buttermilk if needed. Adding herbs like dill or caraway seeds can enhance the flavor. For a sweet twist, serve it with a drizzle of honey, which pairs beautifully with Sweet Herb Sorbet.
Serving Suggestions
This Finnish flatbread is delightful on its own or served with butter and jam. Pair it with soups or stews for a wholesome meal, or enjoy it alongside a cheese platter featuring the Cream Cheese Nut Ball. It also makes a great base for sandwiches or wraps with your favorite fillings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover flatbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, place the flatbread in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Finnish Flat Bread contains roughly 87 calories, with 3g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1331mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for the regular flour. However, the texture may differ slightly. Adding a binder like xanthan gum can help mimic the elasticity of wheat flour.
How can I make this flatbread more flavorful?
Incorporate spices or herbs into the dough, such as garlic powder or fresh herbs like rosemary. You can also brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with sea salt before baking for added flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute shortening with coconut oil or vegan butter, and use a plant-based milk mixed with vinegar as a buttermilk alternative. This will maintain the texture and flavor while keeping it vegan-friendly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).