Artifact of the Month: December 2019

A Scandinavian Christmas Tradition

Aebleskiver (pronounced "eb-el-ski-ver" or "eb-el-sku-wyr") is a beloved Scandinavian treat known for its distinctive round shape. A type of pancake - a little like a cross between a beignet and funnel cake - the center is soft and fluffy while the crust is crisp and brown. They are usually dusted with powder sugar and can also be served with a tart berry jam. The word aebleskiver translates to "apple slices" and is a name that comes from earlier times when apple slices were added to the batter. In Scandinavian countries, aebleskiver is the traditional dinner for Lille juleaften (Little Christmas Eve) on December 23 and eaten with a mulled wine known as glogg. A symbol of community and hospitality, they are also very popular at Scandinavian charity and open-air events.

Recipes for the batter generally fall into two categories, those made with baking soda or baking powder as a leavening agent, or those made with yeast. As the batter cooks, they are turned in the pan to create their unique round shape. Aebleskiver are cooked by frying/baking in a special pan with half-spherical indentations. Most pans like this month's featured artifact have seven indentations, but some pans are larger. The earliest known pans date to the 1600s and were made from hammered copper. Bare copper was succeeded by cast iron, which distributes heat more evenly and forms a natural nonstick surface. Modern pans are still made in cast iron and other metals with nonstick coating.

This month's featured artifact was donated by a local Scandinavian family and is believed to be over 100 years old. The pan is on exhibit at the Tongass Historical Museum in the special exhibit, Solving Problems, Telling Stories: Handcraft in a Harsh Environment, and on view through January 2020.

Ketchikan Museums: Tongass Historical Society Collection, THS 69.11.12.1