Happy Midsummer Eve to all of our Swedish friends as well as those of you who celebrate this favorite Swedish holiday!
Jakob Fridholm/imagebank.sweden.se
As much is happing at Lost in a Pot and our summer is going to be a busy one we’re posting a short one today. We’ll give you guys a brief update and oh, there will be a cake.
Jakob Fridholm/imagebank.sweden.se
It is indeed going to be a busy summer as we have the kids and our grandkids visiting from the USA. We’ll be throwing a traditional midsummer eve party for them, friends and family. As a matter of fact, by the time you read this, we’ll be well into the event or just finished and sporting a full tummy and a slightly heavy head. In early July (after the USA family has gone), Eva, Chloe and I are off for a week of quiet time in the countryside (I think we’ll need it). Then when we return, we have to begin packing for our move at the end of July. Yep, Lost in the Pot is moving. We’ve finally found that small house in a quiet hamlet about 20 minutes from here, but more on that in an upcoming post. So, because of this fun and craziness, our posts will be limited this summer. We do hope to get a post out sometime in July, but if not August for sure.
Midsummer Gräddtårta med jordgubbar
Magnus Carlsson/imagebank.sweden.se
Yep, it’s the Gräddtårta med jordgubbar or Whipped Cream Cake with Strawberries that I’ve been promising to post a recipe for since February. You might remember seeing the cake when we posted Skansen, fascinating kids and adults since 1891…Part Two. You see, towards the end of the post we included a very cute video clip on the Swedish midsummer and about halfway through, they showed the classic Swedish Midsummer Gräddtårta med jordgubbar. More than one of our readers requested we post on this lovely cake, so here ya go.
If you don’t remember the cake you can see it at about 2:13 into the video above. If you haven’t viewed the video, give it a go and then you’ll know what we’re doing today.
Coming soon to Lost in a Pot, the definitive Swedish Cinnamon Bun…
We said it was a mini-post, but before we go here’s two links (in English) that will guide you in making the classic Swedish Midsommar cake. In our parts, the cake in the first image is most common. You can find the recipe for that one at John Duxbury’s SwedishFoods.com HERE. The second cake (in the third cake image) is a bit different from the first. The recipe for this one is from VISITSWEDEN.COM and can be found HERE. As you read the recipes you’ll see that it’s a relatively simple cake to make, but full of flavor. So, you decide which one you’ll make. Heck, why not try both!
2pots2cook says
Dear Ron ! If you are enjoying with your family right now, I wish you a lot of fun, hugs and kisses and smiles and laughing. Also looking forward to read the news when you find time ! Enjoy ! All of you !
Ron says
Thanks Davorka, we did indeed have a wonderful time with our family. Thanks for stopping by as well as the best wishes.
Deb|EastofEdenCooking says
What a wonderful summer you have planned! Can’t wait to see photos of your new abode!
Ron says
Hi Deb, it has been a wonderful summer thus far. We’re so looking forward to our upcoming move and once we’re settled we’ll be sharing it with you.
Healthy World Cuisine says
So excited for you Ron!! Visit with the kids and the grandkids, so much needed holiday time and a move. That should keep you out of trouble for an hour or so… LOL Wish we could slice a piece of this delicious cake and Tea/Coffee or maybe something a little stronger to wish you good luck on the move. Take care of yourself.
Ron says
Bobbi, thanks for the comment and yes the visit with the family was very busy. They’ve now returned to the US and Eva and I are in recovery mode. Now the summer is going to get even busier with our packing and upcoming move.
Healthy World Cuisine says
Good luck with the move Ron. Be careful and take care of yourself.
Francesca says
The cake looks summery. We have just had our winter solstice and the day was grey and wet. Exciting news about your move.
Ron says
Hi Francesca. It’s surely summery here and it is a perfect cake for a summer day. We are indeed looking forward to our move. Thanks for stopping by.
Ronit says
Sounds like a fun, though busy, time.
Both cake options look so good! Thanks for sharing. 🙂
Ron says
Well, it was fun indeed, but the family fun has passed. A little r&r and we’re going to be at the not so fun packing part of our busy summer. Thanks for visiting.
Liz says
Congratulations Ron on your new home, I am looking forward to seeing and reading about it. Will you be able to have a garden? How exciting. And it sounds like you are off to a wonderful summer. That cake is stunning, fabulous pictures.
Enjoy your holiday.
Ron says
Hi Liz, the summer is certainly off to a wonderful start. The family has just returned to the US and it’s time for some R&R. We certainly have room for a garden and I’ll be studying the sun when we move in and make my plans in the winter. A great gardening season to you as well.
Mad Dog says
How exciting Good luck with the move!
Ron says
Thanks Mad Dog, hopefully, it cools off a bit by then.
Eha says
Ron – it surely will be ‘Smiles of a Swedish Summer’ in three acts for you and Eva ! First the heart-warming visit by your son and daughter with their children: your granddaughter’s photo on Instagram is just delightful ! Then your R&R in the family summer home – and, yes, you’ll need it . . . and last the ‘big move’ which always is such a hassle but should result in many benefits . . . hope it will be your ‘forever’ home ! Just one thing, Ron 🙂 ! Midsummer Night festivities are NOT limited to Sweden as you and I well know, but others may not . . . every Northern European country has huge bonfires, fireworks, dancing, singing . . . and far too much ‘happy juice’ – hope all of you did enjoy yours !!!! best for a summer all of you will always remember . . .
Eha says
Oops ! Just read your comment on IG 🙂 ! My humble apologies to Eva’s niece . . . a rather natural error methinks . . .
Ron says
No need for apologies, my granddaughter isn’t near as fond of the camera as Eva’s very photogenic niece.
Ron says
Hi Eha, yes midsummer has passed and we had a wonderful Swedish Midsummer party which I hope to be my next post. So, for now, it’s a few days in the garden and then to the packing.
Eha says
OK, Ron ! When, once upon a time, you get to telling us a few facets of that wonderful time you spent with your grandkids . . . . well: since they were of two somewhat different age groups . . . what did they think of Sweden as different from the US? .Fascinating to know ! . .Did the little monkey I so like open his eyes and say ‘I did not know that’ ! Methinks Eva and you were able to open them to other habits and other ways . . . I know at the ‘other end ‘ of my life I clearly remember what happened way, way back and how I felt about it . . .
Ron says
Ah Eha, it was a grand and memorable time indeed. We made small trips for a few hours a time when little Seamus was here. But, once they left, our older two grandkids got to go to some of what they said were amazing places. I think for Seamus (3 yo) his big thrill was watching the trains and riding on them as well. For my daughter’s lot, Bodhi (11 yo) and Lila (8 yo), I believe their favorite experience was the day we spent at Tivoli in Copenhagen and their mom thought it was very cool as well.
Our midsummer celebration was wonderful and an event I hope to post on once life returns to some sense of normality. But, the greatest food challenge was the tasting of the Surströmming, but more on that later.
Eha says
*smiles* So pleased ! Why do you think my Siiri and Kersti would ‘scream’ ‘Copenhagen’ when they knew we would be going to Europe ? Tivoli naturally . . . and they would be very ‘good girls’ to have lunch in one of the restaurants there also ! All the best for your move: I have always used one of our removalist servicers as they come and pack as well for full 100% insurance coverage . . .
Loretta Moniz says
Congratulations indeed Ron!! So anxious to hear about your forever home. I can just about picture it in my mind’s eye. Good luck with the move and enjoy time with your family. The cake looks delightful. Have a fabulous summer!
Ron says
Thanks, Loretta and a wonderful summer to you guys as well.
David says
First, congratulations on finding your new home! I can’t wait to hear about it and see photos. Second, have a great time with your kids and grandkids – I’m sure you’ll be exhausted but it’s worth it! Finally, I this might just make the cake tomorrow for midsummer plus one! I’m vacillating between this and Davorka’s peach cake. It will all depend on the strawberries and peaches! Lycka till on your move!
Ron says
Hi David, thanks for the congrats. We had a wonderful time with the kids and grandkids and your right it was very exhausting. We’re in recovery mode now and as soon as this heatwave passes we’ll be headed to the summer house for more rest. Well, which cake did you make? Hopefully both.
Tandy I Lavender and Lime says
Be blessed with the time you spend with your family. Have a super summer and a safe move!
Ron says
Thanks Tandy, we did and will.
Frank says
Do enjoy your holiday, Ron! Along with a piece of that lovely cake.
I’ve read. bit about Swedish midsummer and it does sounds like a wonderful time. I am curious, thought, why “mid” summer is celebrated at the very beginning of summer…
Ron says
Thanks Frank, we did indeed enjoy our midsummer celebration. Great question, it’s actually celebrated on the evening of the summer solstice and goes back in time to the pagan era. I suppose a better name for the event might be mid-year eve.
Frank says
Gotcha! Do hope you’re enjoying your summer, Ron.
Ron says
Thanks Frank, we’re just about unpacked and back to normal, almost. The plan is to have the Lost in a Pot world HQ up and running in the next few days, with hopes of a post yet this month.
Neil says
That’s great that you’ve finally found that small house Ron. And I LOVED the video. Hilarious! That strawberry cake, wow! Have fun with the family and looking forward to hearing from you soon!
Ron says
Thanks Neil, at this moment I’m taking a well-needed break from packing for the move into the new house. The video is a funny clip indeed and you need to make yourself and Lady Lynn one of those cakes for sure. Thanks for stopping by…
mimi rippee says
Do you live in a city now? Just reading the word “hamlet” makes it sound dreamy. Love your cake. You’re very talented.
Ron says
Hi Mimi, Yes we live in a small Swedish industrial city (pop. 20,000+), so a move to a small “hamlet” or small country town is very welcomed by us. We’ll have only one traffic light in town, which is just what we wanted. Thanks for taking the time too have a read.
Valentina says
Sounds like your summer will be packed with good things — including cake. 😉 Looking forward to photos of the new home.
I can never get enough strawberries during the summer. I’m going to try this cake for our next festive occasion — and if one doesn’t come up, I’m making it anyway. 🙂 Have a wonderful summer, Ron. ~Valentina
Ron says
Hi Valentina, indeed it’s the fastest moving summer I’ve experienced in some time. We had lots of fun, but now it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get cracking at packing. I think you’ll enjoy the taste and simplicity of the cake. Thanks for stopping by.
sherry says
what an exciting summer you will have ron. and a busy and tiring one i think:) have fun. all the best. cheers sherry
Ron says
Sherry, I think the exciting time is past and now it’s the tiring part. I’d forgotten how much work it is to pack up a house. Thanks for having a read.
Jas @ All that's Jas says
I love the idea of celebrating summer. I do remember that video and can’t believe it’s been a year already.
The strawberry cake looks so delicious, definitely making it soon. Exciting times ahead for you with kids and grandkids, Ron. Your heart will be full and your energy low. Good thing you’re going to recharge before the move. Wishing you luck and a wonderful summer!
Ron says
Hi Jas and thanks for your kind word. We’re in the hearts full and low energy phase currently. It was a wonderful midsummer celebration and an awesome time with the family. We’re hoping to get to the recharge phase next week when we head to the summer house for a few days. Best wishes for a wonderful summer for you and your clan as well.
Gerlinde says
I just loved the video on celebrating Midsummer night and can’t wait to see your new home. Have fun, enjoy your visits and good luck with moving to a new home.
Ron says
Thanks Gerlinde, It was a grand event and one I’ll be sharing soon.
Laura says
I love that video – makes me want to be Swedish, the humor is superb! And that cake and your cake both look completely spectacular! Thanks and Happy Midsummer, Ron!
Ron says
Laura, I’m glad you enjoyed the video, I also think it’s a hoot. Thanks for taking the time to stop by.
Pauline says
Ron, Happy Midsummer to you and your family. I love all of those traditions which accompany different seasons all over the world. How exciting to have your family home and to be moving later in the month as well. Is this a downsizing activity? The cake looks amazing, and strawberries are in season here as well. It was fun to watch your video, what a big day. Have a wonderful Summer. Cheers, Pauline.
Ron says
Hi Pauline and thanks for your fine comment. Well, Midsummer has passed and the kids are back in the US. But, it was indeed a happy time. Now, we’ll prepare (after a tad of R&R) for our move. Downsizing, hum, not really I guess we’re upsizing. Maybe we’ll start a new trend.
Judith Graber says
Lovely cake – we have been enjoying fresh strawberries here in Michigan. I am currently making strawberry cupcakes and putting those luscious berries to good use. Enjoy your summer with family and whatever you may be doing. Lucky you to have found a new home and hopefully with more gardening space.
Ron says
Hi Judi, strawberries are indeed one of summers greatest gifts. Yum, those strawberry cupcakes sound so good. Thanks for the good wishes and have a great summer as well.
Ciao Chow Linda says
Well that’s a cake I could celebrate all year long – not just midsummer. I hope you had a wonderful time with your family — and lots of luck on the move. It’s always a lot of work but I’m sure you’ll love your new digs. See you in July – or August – or whenever you have time to post.
Ron says
Linda, it was a wonderful time with the family. I’m with you when it comes to eating the cake all year around. We hope to be back this month with a post on our Midsummer celebration, but if not in Early August for sure. Thanks for stopping by.
John / Kitchen Riffs says
Any post that has cake is a good one. 🙂 And what a cake! Looks totally wonderful. Congrats on the new house. Moving is a pain, of course, but always worth it.
Ron says
Hi John, I’m in total agreement on the cake posting thing. I love to watch others make a cake and then pretend I can devour it. Thanks for the congrats. I think we’re at the pain phase now, but all will improve.
Susan says
Busy summer, indeed! Sounds like lots of fun, excluding the packing part 🙂 Enjoy your family, quiet break and your new home. Hope we get a tour after you all settled in. The cake sounds delightful and I remember that video from last year. So funny.
Ron says
Susan, so far it’s been a grand summer and we have plans to share our Midsummer celebration in our next post (sometime soon we hope). The cake was grand and if I was a genie I’d send a fresh slice to all my blogger friends. Thanks for stopping by.
Karen (Back Road Journal) says
What a busy summer indeed. I’m sure the visit with your family was wonderful. Rest up as I know what you have ahead of you with your move. A big congratulations on finding a home, I’m sure it will be lovely when you have it just the way you and Eva want it.
Ron says
Hi Karen, the visit was wonderful and one we’ll always cherish. We’re just begining the rest up phase as we know what’s ahead of us. Thanks for taking the time to have a read and comment.
David @ Spiced says
First of all, good luck with the upcoming move! As you probably remember, we moved around the corner back in the winter, and that was surprisingly tough. It was less than 1/2 mile away, but we still had to pack and move everything. I can’t wait to hear more about the new house and town…I hope Chloe likes it! Also, that Swedish Midsommar cake sounds delicious. Perhaps I should whip one up for a summer picnic in the backyard soon. 🙂 Enjoy hanging out with the grandkids. I know that will be special!
Ron says
Thanks for the good wishes, David! I remember that mid-winter move you made. You know I’ve moved 24 times in my life (a bit of a nomad I guess) and it’s my belief it’s easier to move around the world than to move just down the road. Hope you do get a chance to try the cake as I think you’d like it.
Lorraine @ Not Quite Nigella says
Best of luck with the move! That strawberry cake looks absolutely stunning 😀
Ron says
Hi Lorraine, thanks for the good wishes and compliment on the cake. Good luck with that new puppy!
Kelly | Foodtasia says
Ron, celebrating Mid Summer’s Eve looks like a whole lot of fun! I remember reading about the Maypole celebrations of long ago, but hadn’t realized they still took place. The Strawberry and Cream cake looks fantastic. The perfect dessert to celebrate summer! Wishing you, Eva, and Chloe a wonderful summer!
Ron says
Hi Kelly, yep that Midsummer pole is a huge cultural symbol (and party) here in Sweden. Each hamlet, village, town and city decorate a pole with flowers and raise it for Midsummer here and in other countries as well. Thanks for the good wishes and you enjoy your summer as well.
Chava says
Congrats on the move and good luck with all the moving parts! We moved last winter and I have to say, it’s much better to move this time of year! By the way, that cake looks AMAZING. I wish I could try a slice!
Ron says
Chava, thanks for stopping by and for the good wishes. Yea, we have done winter moves and they’re no fun especially here in Sweden. I wish I could beam you a slice of the cake over so you could try it. Take care!
frugal hausfrau says
Yes, I DO remember the cake! And I just realized I haven’t stopped by for a while, so I can see I actually got here just in time for the cake! Funny how THAT worked!! I think I will have tp make one this summer. Or maybe both as you suggested, lol!!
Mollie
Ron says
Hi Mollie, I could use a slice of that cake just now myself as I have the moving blues. Not really, just want to be done with our move so I can spend more time reading fine blogs like yours. I do so hope you give the cake a go, it is a yummy one. Thanks for popping in.
priya says
Wishing you a great time ron! Time with family is always a great time. We just came back from summer break, visited our family and had a lot of fun.
Ron says
Thanks Priya, the family time was fantastic and well enjoyed.
mjskitchen says
Happy Swedish midsummer! What a great celebration. I guess in the states it’s 4th of July, but I like the idea of celebrating midsummer much better. I do have to say that I always get a little depressed on June 21, because it signals that the days will start getting shorter. Needless to say, I love the winter solstice. 🙂 Congratulations on your up and coming move! You sound like it’s one you’ve been looking forward to for a while. I hope all goes well. Thanks for sharing your celebration with that gorgeous cake!
Ron says
MJ, thanks for the congrats and taking the time to have a read and share a comment. Well, we’re about 95% packed and close on the house and get the keys this coming Friday so it’s all coming together, but boy are we tired. Oh well, we’ll rest in August.
All That I'm Eating says
Happy midsummer, and good luck with your move!
Ron says
Thanks for the good wishes, Caroline!
Jeff the Chef says
Congratulations on the move. Moving is always stressful, so I hope it goes smoothly for you. I hope you’ve enjoyed your midsummer celebratation!
Ron says
Hi Jeff – Midsummer was an absolute blast and an event I hope to share in an upcoming post if I ever get my studio unpacked and settled in.
The move is done and went well. On the other had the unpacking is still ongoing. Hopefully, the stressful part is past.
Thanks for popping in for a read and thanks again for your post on the Red Cross cake.
Alida@mylittleitaliankitchen.com says
Hi Ron, I wish you a lovely summer with all your family and lots of delicious food! By the way that cake looks amazing!!
Ron says
Thanks so much, Alida. A good wish back to you for a hopefully cooler second half of the summer.
Easyfoodsmith says
That’s a gorgeous slice of deliciousness!
Ron says
Thank you Taruna, it is an exceptionally tasty cake.
Bernice says
The cake looks light and delicious. Sounds like you had a busy summer!! 💕