Lefse is a traditional Norwegian flatbread loved for its soft texture and subtle sweetness. This version adds a fun twist by using 7Up, which helps create an extra tender and fluffy lefse that’s easy to roll and perfect for any occasion.
We’ve combined classic ingredients with the fizzy magic of 7Up to bring you a simple recipe that delivers authentic flavor with a modern touch. Whether you’re new to lefse or a seasoned fan, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Let’s dive into making this delightful treat that’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just a cozy snack. With a few easy steps, you’ll have warm, delicious lefse ready to enjoy with butter, sugar, or your favorite fillings.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Lefse with 7Up, we carefully choose ingredients that enhance its signature softness and subtle sweetness. Below are the essentials to make a tender dough and smooth cooking process.
Dough Ingredients
Our lefse dough uses classic elements with a special twist—7Up—to achieve extra fluffiness and ease of rolling:
- 5 large russet potatoes, peeled and boiled until tender
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1/2 cup 7Up, room temperature, to add lightness
- 1 teaspoon salt for balanced flavor
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1/4 cup heavy cream to enrich the dough and improve texture
Additional Ingredients for Rolling and Cooking
For rolling out and cooking our lefse, these ingredients and tools help ensure a smooth, non-stick surface and golden, soft results:
| Ingredient/Tool | Purpose | Quantity/Details |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Dusting for rolling surface | As needed |
| Butter | Brushing cooked lefse slices | Melted, for serving or storing |
| Griddle or large skillet | Cooking surface | Preheated to medium-high |
| Rolling pin | Rolling dough thin and even | Smooth, lightly floured |
By preparing these essentials, we set the stage for a delightful cooking experience and delicious lefse with 7Up every time.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Lefse with 7Up, having the right equipment is essential for a smooth, efficient process. Below are the must-have tools that help us roll, cook, and handle the delicate dough:
- Large Pot
For boiling the russet potatoes until fork-tender. A heavy-bottomed pot ensures even cooking.
- Potato Masher or Ricer
We use a potato masher or, ideally, a ricer to achieve the smooth, lump-free potatoes crucial for tender lefse dough.
- Mixing Bowl
A large bowl to combine potatoes, melted butter, 7Up, salt, and flour comfortably.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements of flour, butter, and 7Up guarantee consistent results.
- Rolling Pin
A smooth rolling pin allows us to roll the dough thinly and evenly, key for authentic lefse texture.
- Wooden Lefse Board or Flat Surface
We roll dough on a clean, floured surface or a dedicated lefse board to prevent sticking.
- Griddle or Heavy Skillet
Preheated to medium-high heat, a cast iron or electric griddle is perfect for cooking lefse evenly.
- Spatula or Lefse Stick
For flipping the delicate lefse gently without tearing.
- Pastry Brush
Used to brush melted butter on top of the cooked lefse, keeping them soft and flavorful.
- Kitchen Towels or Clean Cloths
To stack and cover cooked lefse, keeping them warm and pliable.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boil potatoes evenly |
| Potato Masher or Ricer | Mash potatoes smooth |
| Mixing Bowl | Mix ingredients |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Ensure precise measurements |
| Rolling Pin | Roll dough thinly and evenly |
| Wooden Lefse Board | Prevent dough from sticking |
| Griddle or Skillet | Cook lefse evenly |
| Spatula or Lefse Stick | Flip lefse gently |
| Pastry Brush | Brush melted butter |
| Kitchen Towels | Keep lefse warm and soft |
Tip: Keeping your workspace lightly floured minimizes sticking when rolling out the dough.
Equipped with these essential tools, we can confidently tackle each step of our Lefse recipe with 7Up and achieve tender, flavorful flatbreads every time.
Prep Work
To achieve the perfect texture and flavor in our Lefse Recipe with 7Up, proper prep work is essential. We start by preparing the potatoes and then mix the dough carefully for that tender, fluffy flatbread.
Preparing the Potatoes
- Begin with 5 large russet potatoes for their ideal starch content and texture.
- Boil the potatoes whole and unpeeled in a large pot of salted water until tender—this usually takes about 30-40 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes immediately and allow them to cool just enough to handle, then peel while still warm. This ensures smooth peeling and prevents soggy skins.
- Use a potato ricer or masher to mash the potatoes until completely smooth and lump-free—this step is crucial to avoid a gritty dough.
- Spread mashed potatoes on a baking sheet or large tray to cool further; cooling prevents excess moisture in the dough.
| Step | Detail | Time/Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Potato type | Russet potatoes | 5 large |
| Boiling method | Whole, unpeeled | 30-40 minutes |
| Preparation after boiling | Peel while warm, mash smooth | Immediate after cooling |
Mixing the Dough
- Transfer the cooled mashed potatoes to a large mixing bowl.
- Add 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter and stir gently to incorporate rich flavor.
- Pour in 1/2 cup room temperature 7Up. This ingredient adds lightness and helps create our signature soft and fluffy lefse texture.
- Season with 1 teaspoon salt for balanced taste.
- Gradually add about 2 to 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour while mixing to form a soft, pliable dough. The amount of flour may vary slightly depending on potato moisture.
- Finally, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream to enrich the dough and maintain tenderness.
- Mix until ingredients are fully combined but avoid overworking. The dough should be soft yet easy to roll.
“The magic in our Lefse Recipe with 7Up lies in these carefully balanced ingredients, creating a dough that gently melts in your mouth.”
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed potatoes | 5 large russet | Base of dough |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup melted | Flavor, tenderness |
| 7Up | 1/2 cup room temperature | Tenderizing agent, fluffiness |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Seasoning |
| All-purpose flour | 2 to 2 1/2 cups | Dough structure |
| Heavy cream | 1/4 cup | Moisture, richness |
With potatoes perfectly cooked and dough well mixed, we’re now ready for rolling and cooking our luscious lefse.
Directions
Let’s bring our lefse dough to life by rolling it out thin and cooking it perfectly. Follow these steps carefully to achieve that tender, soft texture enhanced by 7Up in every bite.
Rolling the Lefse
- Prepare your workspace: Lightly flour the lefse board or flat surface to prevent sticking. Keep extra flour nearby for dusting.
- Divide the dough: Portion the dough into 8 to 10 equal balls about the size of a golf ball.
- Flour the dough balls: Dust each dough ball with flour to keep the dough from sticking while rolling.
- Roll thinly: Using a rolling pin, roll each dough ball into a thin circle roughly 8 to 10 inches in diameter. Aim for uniform thinness to ensure even cooking and softness.
- Check thickness: The lefse should be almost translucent but still handleable without tearing.
- Transfer carefully: Gently slide or lift the rolled dough onto a lightly floured towel to prevent sticking while we get the griddle ready.
Cooking on the Griddle
- Preheat the griddle: Heat your griddle or heavy skillet to medium-high, approximately 375°F (190°C). A hot surface is key to creating subtle golden spots without drying out the lefse.
- Cook the lefse: Place one rolled piece directly on the hot griddle.
- Watch for bubbles: Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until you see light golden brown spots and small bubbles forming.
- Flip carefully: Using a lefse stick or spatula, flip the lefse gently and cook the other side for another 1 to 2 minutes.
- Remove and keep warm: Transfer the cooked lefse to a clean kitchen towel and cover to keep warm and soft. Stack them carefully to avoid drying.
- Repeat with remaining dough: Continue rolling and cooking each piece of dough, adjusting griddle heat as needed to maintain even cooking.
| Step | Details | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Rolling | Roll dough to 8–10 inch circles, thin but not tearing | Use plenty of flour to prevent sticking |
| Griddle Temperature | Medium-high, about 375°F (190°C) | Preheat the griddle fully before cooking |
| Cooking Time per Side | 1-2 minutes | Look for golden spots and bubbles for doneness |
| Keeping Warm | Stack cooked lefse and cover with a kitchen towel | Avoid stacking while hot to prevent sweating |
Tips for Perfect Lefse
Mastering the art of rolling and cooking lefse is key to achieving the soft tender texture that makes this traditional Norwegian flatbread so special. Here are our top tips to help you create perfect lefse with 7Up every time.
Rolling Techniques
- Use plenty of flour: Dust your rolling surface, rolling pin, and dough balls generously with flour to prevent sticking without drying out the dough.
- Divide dough into equal portions: This ensures uniform thickness and consistent cooking. Aim for dough balls about the size of a golf ball.
- Roll gently but firmly: Start from the center and roll outward in all directions to create an even thin circle roughly 10–12 inches in diameter.
- Keep lefse thin but intact: Aim for around 1/16 inch thickness. Too thick makes the lefse heavy. Too thin risks tearing. The dough’s pliability, boosted by 7Up, will help here.
- Use a lefse board or smooth flat surface: This reduces tearing and makes rolling easier.
“Consistency is key — keep your strokes even and the dough adequately floured for smooth rolling.”
Cooking Temperature
- Preheat griddle or skillet to medium-high: Approximately 350°F to 375°F (177°C to 190°C) works best for golden spots and gentle bubbles to form without burning.
- Test heat before cooking: Drop a small bit of dough onto griddle. It should sizzle gently and form golden brown spots within 20 seconds.
- Flip carefully once bubbles appear: Use a spatula or traditional lefse stick to flip gently as lefse is delicate.
- Cook briefly on second side: About 10–15 seconds to avoid dryness.
- Keep cooked lefse covered: Stack finished lefse and cover with a kitchen towel to maintain warmth and moisture.
| Cooking Step | Temperature Range (°F) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat griddle | 350–375 | Ideal for golden color and proper cook |
| Initial cook | 20 seconds | Wait for bubbles and golden spots |
| Flip and cook other side | 10–15 seconds | Prevents overcooking and dryness |
Following these rolling and cooking tips guarantees fluffy tender lefse with a slight sweetness and softness enhanced by 7Up, perfect for enjoying plain or with your favorite fillings.
Serving Suggestions
Serving our Lefse Recipe with 7Up offers countless delicious possibilities that elevate this traditional flatbread into a versatile treat. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it:
Classic Butter and Sugar
- Spread a generous layer of softened butter evenly over a warm lefse.
- Sprinkle with granulated or cinnamon sugar.
- Roll tightly and savor the sweet, buttery aroma enhanced by the delicate fluffiness from the 7Up.
Savory Fillings
- Use lefse as a wrap for smoked salmon, cream cheese, and fresh dill for a fresh, savory bite.
- Layer thin slices of ham, Swiss cheese, and a dab of mustard before rolling.
- The tender texture of our lefse holds fillings perfectly without tearing.
Sweet Fruit and Jam Pairing
- Spread your favorite fruit preserves or apple butter evenly before rolling.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese for extra richness.
- This creates a delightful balance of sweetness and creaminess.
Creative Combinations Table
| Serving Style | Ingredients | Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Sweet | Butter, cinnamon sugar | Serve immediately warm |
| Savory Wrap | Smoked salmon, cream cheese, dill | Chill slightly for easy rolling |
| Fruit & Jam | Strawberry jam, whipped cream | Add fresh fruit slices as topping |
| Breakfast Roll-Up | Scrambled eggs, bacon, cheese | Wrap and toast lightly on skillet |
Tips for Serving
- Always serve lefse warm or at room temperature to preserve its softness.
- Use a pastry brush to lightly butter each lefse before adding fillings; this improves pliability and flavor.
- Serve with a side of coffee or tea to complement the subtle sweetness from the 7Up-enhanced dough.
“Lefse with 7Up not only transforms texture but also invites creativity — perfect for holiday spreads, family meals, or a cozy snack anytime.”
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
To enjoy our Lefse Recipe With 7Up at peak freshness anytime, proper make-ahead and storage techniques are essential. Here’s how we preserve the tender texture and delicate flavor of our lefse for later use.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the lefse dough a day in advance. After mixing, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This rest period allows the ingredients, especially the 7Up and butter, to meld, resulting in an even softer lefse.
- Cook the lefse fresh on the day you plan to serve. Rolling and cooking chilled dough is easier, helping achieve perfectly thin and tender rounds.
- Alternatively, you can fully cook the lefse ahead of time. Allow the cooked lefse to cool completely before storing.
Storage Instructions
| Storage Method | Procedure | Storage Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Stack cooled lefse between sheets of parchment paper. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. | Up to 3 days | Reheat gently on a griddle or microwave wrapped in a damp towel to retain softness. |
| Freezing | Place parchment paper between each lefse round to prevent sticking. Pack in an airtight freezer bag, remove excess air. | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Use gentle heat to avoid drying out. |
Reheating Best Practices
- Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium-low heat.
- Warm the lefse for about 30 seconds per side until pliable.
- Alternatively, cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds.
- Brush with melted butter after warming to refresh the rich flavor and softness.
“Storing your lefse properly is key to maintaining the signature tender texture we love in this recipe using 7Up.“
By following these tips, we ensure our lefse stays soft, moist, and delicious whenever we are ready to enjoy it.
Conclusion
Making lefse with 7Up adds a delightful twist that enhances its softness and makes the process more approachable. This recipe brings together tradition and innovation, giving us a versatile flatbread that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed plain or with your favorite fillings, lefse offers a comforting and delicious experience.
With the right prep, tools, and a bit of practice, we can easily create this Norwegian classic in our own kitchens. It’s a wonderful way to bring family and friends together around a warm, homemade treat. Give it a try and enjoy the unique flavor and texture that 7Up helps achieve every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is lefse and why use 7Up in the recipe?
Lefse is a traditional Norwegian soft flatbread. Using 7Up in the recipe adds extra tenderness and fluffiness to the dough, making it easier to roll and resulting in a lighter texture.
What are the main ingredients for lefse with 7Up?
The key ingredients include russet potatoes, melted unsalted butter, room temperature 7Up, salt, all-purpose flour, and heavy cream. These combine for a soft, pliable dough.
What tools do I need to make lefse?
Essential tools are a large pot for boiling potatoes, potato masher or ricer, mixing bowl, rolling pin, wooden board or flat surface for rolling, griddle or heavy skillet, spatula or lefse stick, pastry brush, and kitchen towels.
How should I prepare the potatoes for lefse?
Boil whole, unpeeled potatoes until tender, mash until smooth, and let cool completely to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
What is the best way to roll lefse dough?
Divide dough into equal balls, dust your surface and rolling pin with plenty of flour, then roll each ball into thin, round circles to prevent sticking.
How do I cook lefse for the best result?
Preheat your griddle and cook each rolled lefse until golden spots and bubbles form. Flip gently and cook briefly on the second side. Keep cooked lefse warm under a towel.
What are some popular ways to serve lefse?
Try classic butter and sugar, smoked salmon with cream cheese, fruit preserves, or apple butter. Serve warm or at room temperature, often paired with coffee or tea.
Can I make lefse ahead of time and how do I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead. Store cooked lefse in the refrigerator for up to a few days or freeze for longer. Reheat gently to keep it soft.
Why is flour important during rolling and cooking?
Flour prevents the dough from sticking to the surface and rolling pin, making it easier to roll thinly without tearing the lefse.
What is the ideal cooking temperature for lefse?
Cook on medium heat to ensure even cooking and golden spotting without burning. Adjust temperature to keep a consistent cooking process.