A plate of heart-shaped waffles is beautifully topped with fluffy scoops of whipped cream and drizzled with vibrant red berry sauce. The delicate waffles are lightly dusted with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, creating a sweet and irresistible treat.
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Swedish Culture

A Waffle Lotta Fun! Waffle Day at ASI

February 27, 2023 By Darby Johnson

What started as an accidental mishearing has become one of Sweden’s beloved secular holidays—Waffle Day!

In Sweden, March 25 was known as Our Lady’s Day, a day celebrating the Virgin Mary’s Annunciation. When people from Northern Sweden pronounced ‘Vårfrudagen’, it came across as ‘Vår Fru’ -the old Swedish word for waffle. So, the Swedes decided to celebrate  Vårfrudagen  by cooking waffles. Eventually, it became known as Våffeldagen, or “Waffle Day.” 

Swedish waffles are unique-they are heart-shaped, flat, and crispy. Common toppings include lingonberries or cloudberries and whipped cream. While not traditional, savory waffles are also becoming more popular in Sweden today. Unlike thicker American or Belgian style-waffles, Swedish waffles are thinner because they are cooked on special waffle irons. Waffles in Sweden aren’t just limited to breakfast menus, they are often served as snacks or desserts.  

You don’t have to travel to Sweden to enjoy this holiday. Every year, waffles are available for a short time only at the American Swedish Institute’s FIKA Café.

Want to try and make this treat at home? Kristi Bissel’s Waffle Day recipe can be found here.