Welcome to Mikki’s Kitchen, my fellow food-lovers!

Today, I’m sharing a lovely summer recipe from my home country, Denmark: Koldskål (Danish Buttermilk Dessert) —also known in English as Danish Cold Buttermilk Soup.

By the way, that name still makes me laugh a little because the direct translation from Danish is “cold bowl”—and trust me, this is not a soup!

What Is Koldskål (Danish Buttermilk Dessert)?

Think of it as Denmark’s answer to a summer milkshake: light, tangy, slightly sweet, and topped with crunchy vanilla biscuits called kammerjunkere. It’s one of those dishes that instantly takes me back to carefree childhood afternoons. Hard to explain, but it’s a must-try.

Now, I know Koldskål might be a tricky one to pronounce, so here’s how I’d write it out for English speakers: “Cold-skawl.”

This chilled treat is a summertime favorite across Denmark. Some people make it from scratch, while others grab it pre-made from the supermarket. Either way, I always find myself craving it during the hot Maltese summers.

Unfortunately, the ingredients can be a bit hard to come by here in Malta—especially kærnemælk, the traditional Danish cultured buttermilk used in Koldskål—so I always look forward to having some when I visit Denmark.

And fun fact—my little brother Sigurd, who doesn’t even like Koldskål, somehow makes one of the best versions I’ve ever had. Honestly, how is that even possible?!

This recipe is his creation, and I’m so excited that he let me share it with you here on the blog. This time, we’re making it together—from scratch!

Oh, and this whole recipe comes together in about 30 minutes. So easy — and so worth it on warm days.

How Much Danish Buttermilk Dessert This Recipe Makes

This recipe makes just about one liter of Danish Buttermilk Dessert, which is perfect for serving four people if you’re enjoying it as a light treat, refreshing breakfast, or a cooling dinner when you’re not super hungry.

But if you’ve got a bigger appetite (or you’re someone who always goes back for seconds), it’s also totally reasonable to share it between two people.

Just don’t forget the toppings — they make it extra satisfying!

Can’t Find Cultured Buttermilk? Try This Easy Substitute

Living outside Denmark and struggling to find buttermilk? I feel you — it’s not always easy to track down traditional cultured buttermilk, especially here in Malta.

But don’t worry! You can easily make a simple substitute at home that works beautifully in this recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need (for 1 liter):

• 4 tablespoons white vinegar or fresh lemon juice (about 60 ml)
• 4 cups regular milk (about 940 ml – whole milk works great!)

Here’s how to do it:

1. Pour the vinegar or lemon juice into a large jug or bowl.
2. Pour in the milk and stir gently.
3. Let it sit at room temperature for about 5–10 minutes, allowing the milk to curdle, giving it a buttermilk-like texture and taste.

This quick fix won’t taste exactly like Danish kærnemælk, but it brings the right tang and texture to make your Koldskål shine.

Try it out and see how close you can get to the real thing — your tastebuds might not even notice the difference!

Want the Full Danish Experience?

You don’t need kammerjunkere to enjoy Koldskål — it’s just as lovely on its own or with fresh berries.

But if you’re curious about the classic Danish way of serving it, kammerjunkere are small, crunchy vanilla biscuits that add a delicious little contrast to the creamy base.

Can’t find them where you are? No problem — here are a few close alternatives:

• Crunchy vanilla biscuits or wafers (the crisp kind, not soft)
• Toasted oats or crushed cereal
• Chopped almonds or sweet rusks

Totally optional, but a fun way to get that nostalgic crunch if you want to go all in.

Nutritional Information and Benefits of Koldskål (Danish Buttermilk Dessert)

Nutritional values are estimated and intended for guidance only. Actual values may vary depending on the specific ingredients, brands, and quantities used. Always adjust based on your own preferences and nutritional needs.

Nutritional Values Per Recipe

• Calories: 892 kcal
• Protein: 44.9g
• Carbs: 119.2g
• Fat: 28.1g

Why You’ll Love This Buttermilk Dessert Recipe

Craving something cool, creamy, and effortless? This chilled Danish buttermilk dessert is tangy, nostalgic, and oh-so-refreshing — the kind of treat that makes summer days even sweeter. Here’s why you’ll be obsessed:

• Cooling and Hydrating – Made with tangy cultured buttermilk and a splash of fresh lemon, this bowl of goodness is pure relief on a hot day. It’s soothing, thirst-quenching, and easy on the stomach.
• Sweet, Tangy, and Comforting – Sugar, lemon, and vanilla come together in the most satisfying way — like a nostalgic hug in dessert form (without the heaviness).
• Ridiculously Easy to Make – Whisk, chill, and serve. No baking. No blending. Just one bowl and a few ingredients.
• Customizable Toppings – Whether you’re a kammerjunkere purist or love a sprinkle of oats, nuts, or summer berries, this one plays well with anything you love.
• Affordable and Simple – Made from everyday ingredients you might already have in your fridge or pantry, this is the kind of recipe that’s both budget-friendly and impressive in its simplicity.

It’s the kind of treat that brings people together — perfect for family brunches, lazy lunches, or cooling down after a beach day.

A Quick Note About Raw Eggs

Traditional recipes use raw egg yolks, which is normal in Denmark, where eggs are guaranteed to be free from salmonella.

But if you’re living elsewhere (like me!), it’s a good idea to use pasteurized egg yolks. Especially if you’re making this for kids, pregnant women, or anyone with a sensitive immune system.

A Light and Nostalgic Summer Treat

With under 230 calories per serving and made from simple ingredients like buttermilk, eggs, sugar, and lemon, Koldskål may not be a health food, but it is a feel-good food.

It’s airy, comforting, and gentle on the stomach. Perfect for warm days when you want something sweet without feeling weighed down. Paired with fruit or a few crunchy toppings, it’s a lovely little treat that fits beautifully into a balanced summer rhythm.

How I Love to Eat Koldskål (Danish Buttermilk Dessert)

There’s no one way to enjoy Koldskål — it’s chilled, tangy, comforting, and surprisingly versatile. Whether it’s breakfast, a light lunch, or a little afternoon cool-down, this dish just hits different when the sun is out.

Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

• As a refreshing breakfast on a hot summer morning
• For lunch on days when it’s way too warm to cook
• As a light, cooling dinner when you’re not that hungry but still want something cozy
• Topped with kammerjunkere (the classics), a sprinkle of oats, or chopped almonds and hazelnuts
• With fresh strawberries or other berries when they’re in season — heaven!

However you mix it up, the key is to keep it chilled and simple. It’s not fussy — just sweet, tangy comfort in a bowl.

Looking for something more savory but still cooling? Try my Homemade Ayran — a lightly salted yogurt drink that’s perfect for summer afternoons.

Have Questions About This Recipe?

If you have any questions about my Koldskål or just want to send me a cute message, drop a comment below—I’d love to hear from you!

And if you try the recipe, I’d be so happy to hear how it turned out — or tag us on Instagram @longbluofficial so I can see your creation. Your feedback means the world to me (and helps others find a new summer favorite too).

Stay cool and savor every spoonful!

Love,
Mikki