Complete Guide to Danish Pastries: Best Bakeries in Copenhagen

Copenhagen, a city celebrated for its stunning canals, vibrant design, and rich history, offers an equally delightful experience for the palate: its world-renowned Danish pastries. Known locally aswienerbrød, these flaky, buttery treats are an integral part of Danish culture and a must-try for any visitor.

This guide will take you on a delicious journey through the origins of Danish pastries, introduce you to the essential types you simply must taste, and reveal the best bakeries in Copenhagen where you can savor these delectable creations. Get ready to indulge in the sweet side of Denmark!

The Sweet History of Danish Pastries (Wienerbrød)

Despite their common name, "Danish pastries" actually have an interesting international origin. The story goes that in the mid-19th century, during a bakers' strike in Denmark, Austrian bakers were brought in as temporary replacements. They introduced their traditional pastry-making techniques, which involved layering butter into dough, a method that Danish bakers quickly adopted and adapted to their own tastes, incorporating more fat and creating the distinct style we know today.

Fun Fact:In Denmark, these pastries are known aswienerbrød, literally "Viennese bread," acknowledging their Austrian roots. So, if you ask for a "Danish" in Copenhagen, you might get a puzzled look!

The result is a pastry that is incredibly rich, airy, and flaky, often filled with remonce (a buttery, sugary paste), fruit jams, nuts, or creamy custard. Enjoying awienerbrødwith a cup of coffee is a quintessential Danish experience, embodying the concept ofhygge– the feeling of coziness and contentment.

Essential Danish Pastries You Must Try

Whilewienerbrødis the umbrella term, there's a dazzling array of specific pastries to explore. Here are some of the most popular and beloved types:

Wienerbrød (The Classic)

This is the fundamental Danish pastry, characterized by its multiple layers of dough and butter. It comes in various shapes and fillings:

• Spandauer:Often round or square, with a dollop of custard or jam (raspberry, cherry, or apple) in the center. A true classic.
• Kanelsnegl:The Danish cinnamon snail, a spiral of pastry dough with a generous filling of cinnamon and sugar. Sometimes topped with icing.
• Frøsnapper:A twisted pastry sprinkled with poppy seeds and often filled with remonce. It has a delightful crunch.

Tebirkes & Håndbirkes

These poppy seed-covered delights are extremely popular for breakfast. ATebirkesis a folded pastry, generously topped with poppy seeds and often containing a sweet remonce filling. AHåndbirkesis similar but typically without the filling, a simpler, bread-like option.

Snegle (Snails)

Whilekanelsnegle(cinnamon snails) are the most famous, you'll also find other variations likechokoladesnegle(chocolate snails), offering a rich chocolatey swirl.

Kringle

A large, pretzel-shaped pastry, often topped with pearl sugar and nuts. Kringle is traditionally made for sharing and is a staple at gatherings and celebrations. It can be found with various fillings, including marzipan and remonce.

Fastelavnsboller

These are seasonal treats, typically available in the weeks leading up to the Fastelavn (Danish Carnival), which usually falls in February or March. These soft buns are cut open and filled with whipped cream, jam, and sometimes marzipan, often topped with icing and sprinkles. They are a delightful indulgence.

Rabarberhorn

Meaning "rhubarb horn," this pastry is shaped like a crescent and filled with a sweet rhubarb compote, often combined with marzipan. Its tart and sweet profile is incredibly refreshing.

Napoleonshat

A charming pastry named "Napoleon's hat" due to its triangular shape. It features a sweet shortcrust pastry base, filled with marzipan, and often dipped in dark chocolate. It's rich and satisfying.

Finding the Best Bakeries in Copenhagen

Copenhagen boasts an impressive array of bakeries, from historic establishments to modern artisanal shops. Here’s where to find some of the city's finest:

Juno the Bakery

Located in Østerbro, Juno has quickly risen to fame and is often cited as a must-visit. Expect queues, especially on weekends, but the wait is well worth it for their exquisite cardamom buns, sourdough bread, and seasonal pastries. Their attention to detail and high-quality ingredients make every bite a memorable one.

Hart Bageri

Founded by Richard Hart, formerly of Noma, this bakery offers a sophisticated take on traditional Danish baking. Situated in Frederiksberg, it's renowned for its exceptional sourdough bread and innovative pastries, blending classic techniques with modern flavors. It's a culinary destination in itself.

Meyers Bageri

With multiple locations across the city, including one near Nyhavn, Meyers Bageri is a reliable choice for high-quality, organic Danish pastries and artisan bread. Founded by Claus Meyer (co-founder of Noma), their commitment to local ingredients and traditional methods shines through in every product, from their classickanelsnegleto hearty rye bread.

Democratic Coffee Bar

Nestled within the Copenhagen Library (Københavns Hovedbibliotek), Democratic Coffee Bar is more than just a coffee shop. They bake their own pastries daily, and theirkanelsnegleand croissants are legendary. It's a perfect spot to grab a treat and a coffee before exploring nearby attractions like Christiansborg Palace.

Buka Bakery

A cozy and inviting bakery located centrally, Buka is celebrated for its beautiful array of pastries, often featuring unique twists on Danish classics. Their dedication to aesthetics and flavor makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a delightful breakfast or afternoon treat.

Lagkagehuset (The Layer Cake House)

While a chain, Lagkagehuset is ubiquitous across Copenhagen and Denmark for a reason. They offer a consistently good selection of Danish pastries, breads, and cakes. It's a convenient option for a quick, reliable pastry fix, especially if you're near major transport hubs or tourist spots like Tivoli Gardens.

Conditori La Glace

Established in 1870, Conditori La Glace is Copenhagen's oldest patisserie and a true institution. While famed for its elaborate layer cakes, they also offer a selection of traditional Danish pastries in a charming, old-world setting. It's a more formal, sit-down experience, perfect for a special treat after visiting The Little Mermaid or other city sights.

The Danish Coffee & Pastry Ritual: Embracing Hygge

More than just a snack, enjoying a Danish pastry is a ritual. It's about slowing down, savoring the moment, and embracinghygge. Find a cozy spot in a bakery, a bench overlooking the canals of Nyhavn, or a quiet corner in a park like the King's Garden, and pair your chosen pastry with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Tip:Many bakeries offer outdoor seating. On a sunny day, grab a pastry and head to a waterfront spot or a park. It’s the perfect way to soak in the city's atmosphere.

Tips for Your Danish Pastry Hunt

1. Go Early:For the freshest selection and to avoid disappointment, especially at popular spots, try to visit in the morning.
2. Try Different Types:Don't stick to just one! Danish bakeries offer a vast variety. Experiment with different fillings and shapes to find your favorite.
3. Ask for Recommendations:Danish bakery staff are usually happy to explain the different pastries and offer suggestions.
4. Embrace the Local Experience:Many smaller bakeries are cash-only or prefer card payments. Don't be shy about practicing a few Danish phrases like "tak" (thank you) or "god morgen" (good morning).
5. Consider Seasonal Treats:Keep an eye out for special seasonal pastries likeFastelavnsbollerin winter or rhubarb pastries in spring.

Conclusion

Exploring Copenhagen's bakeries and indulging in its iconic Danish pastries is an essential part of any visit. From the buttery layers of a classicwienerbrødto the sweet spice of akanelsnegl, each bite offers a taste of Danish culinary heritage and a moment of pure bliss. So, embark on your own pastry adventure – your taste buds will thank you!