Lagkage – a Danish Birthday Tradition

The name says it all. Lagkage literally means “layer cake” – a cake made up of several layers. In Denmark, it is closely associated with celebration and childhood memories, and it is most traditionally served at birthdays. A classic Danish lagkage is round and made with light, fluffy sponge cake, layers of whipped cream and berries or fruit of the season, often finished with an abundance of cream, fruit or chocolate on top.  

The legendary Danish chef and cookbook author Kristine Marie Jensen, better known as Frøken Jensen, included a recipe for lagkage in her famous cookbook Frøken Jensens Kogebog, first published in 1901. However, the cake was already known and served in Denmark many years before her recipe appeared. Through generations, the lagkage has evolved in countless forms, with families developing their own favourite combinations of fillings, fruits and decorations.

Today, lagkage remains a beloved part of Danish food culture. Join Alle Tiders in their tent outside Øksnehallen, for a piece of delicious Lagkage.