Ostakaka
Ostkaka is a traditional Swedish cheese cake with a rich, creamy texture and mild flavor, perfect for dessert or teatime, complemented by berries or fresh fruit.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the milk to lukewarm.
- Mix 1/2 cup flour with a little warm milk to make a paste.
- Add the eggs to the paste and beat well.
- Add the egg mixture to the warm milk and stir.
- Dissolve the rennet tablet in warm water and add immediately to the milk mixture, stirring slowly until it curdles.
- Let stand in a warm place for 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
- Drain off the whey.
- Put the curds in a baking dish.
- Cut in sugar and cream, then bake at 350°F until done.
- Serve with lingonberries or strawberries.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the milk is lukewarm but not hot, as excessive heat can damage the rennet. If you don't have rennet, you can substitute with lemon juice or vinegar, though the flavor will vary. Use high-quality cream for a richer taste. This dish pairs well with fresh fruit like strawberries or a drizzle of Crackle Sauce for added sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Ostakaka is traditionally served chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with lingonberries or strawberries for a fresh contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or with a cup of coffee. You can also explore more vegetarian recipes for additional meal ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 300°F until warmed through, as this will help maintain the texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the curds rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ostakaka contains roughly 394 calories, with 8g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 non-dairy milk for this recipe?
Non-dairy milk can be used, but the curdling process may differ. Look for a brand that is high in protein, such as soy milk, and add a bit of vinegar to help it curdle. The texture and flavor will be different from traditional milk, so keep that in mind.
What should I do if the curds don't form?
If the curds don't form after adding the rennet, ensure the milk was at the correct temperature and didn't exceed 110°F. Additionally, verify that the rennet is fresh and active. If curdling still fails, you might need to start over with a new batch.
How can I enhance the flavor of Ostakaka?
You can enhance the flavor by adding spices such as cardamom or vanilla to the milk before curdling. Additionally, mixing in a bit of sugar with the cream before baking can add sweetness. Experiment with toppings like fruit preserves to find your favorite combination.
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).