Smoked Swedish Grilled Cottage Cheese with Cloudberries

Transport yourself to the serene forests of Scandinavia with this comforting and unique dessert: Swedish Grilled Cottage Cheese with Cloudberries. Known in Sweden as a rustic treat often enjoyed after a long hike or a chilly day outdoors, this dish relies on the gentle, smoky heat of the grill to transform simple dairy into a warm, creamy indulgence. When prepared on an Arteflame grill, the cottage cheese takes on a subtle depth of flavor that a standard stovetop simply cannot replicate. The star of the show, however, is the cloudberry—often called "Arctic Gold." These tart, amber-colored berries provide a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the warm cheese. Whether you are hosting a winter barbecue or enjoying a summer evening on the patio, this Nordic classic brings a touch of hygge—a feeling of cozy contentment—straight to your table. It is surprisingly simple to make, yet the flavors are sophisticated enough to impress any guest.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Cottage Cheese (full-fat for best texture)
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
• 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 1/2 cup Cloudberry Jam (warmed)
• Fresh Mint leaves (for garnish)
• Butter (for greasing the cast iron or foil)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Stir gently until the ingredients are fully incorporated. You want the mixture to be creamy but still retain the distinct texture of the cottage cheese curds.
3. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the vanilla and sugar to meld with the dairy.

Step 2: Fire Up the Arteflame

1. Build a medium-sized fire in the center of your Arteflame grill. You are looking for a consistent, medium heat rather than searing high heat.
2. Allow the flat cooktop to heat up. For this delicate dairy dish, you will want to utilize the cooler, outer edges of the cooktop or use a cast-iron skillet placed on the flat top to moderate the temperature.
3. If using a cast-iron skillet, place it on the flat top now to preheat and add a knob of butter to coat the bottom.

Step 3: Grill the Cottage Cheese

1. Pour the cottage cheese mixture into the buttered cast-iron skillet (or create a heavy-duty foil packet if you prefer not to use a pan).
2. Place the skillet on the flat cooktop, ensuring it is not directly over the fiercest flames. The goal is to warm the cheese through gently without separating the fats entirely.
3. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Cook for approximately 10–15 minutes until the mixture is hot, bubbly, and slightly thickened. The smoke from the wood fire will gently infuse the cream.

Step 4: Plate and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the heat carefully.
2. While the cheese is still piping hot, spoon generous portions into serving bowls.
3. Immediately top each serving with a large dollop of warmed cloudberry jam. The contrast between the hot, creamy white cheese and the golden jam is visually stunning.
4. Garnish with a fresh mint leaf and serve immediately.

Tips

Mastering this simple Swedish delicacy requires a little attention to detail, particularly regarding temperature control. Dairy is sensitive to high heat; if you cook it too aggressively, the whey may separate from the curds, resulting in a watery texture. By using the outer zones of your Arteflame or a cast-iron skillet, you buffer the heat, allowing the cheese to warm through luxuriously. Finding cloudberries can sometimes be a challenge depending on your location. They are a staple in Nordic cuisine but can be rare elsewhere. Look for cloudberry jam at IKEA or specialty European grocery stores. If you cannot find cloudberries, do not panic—the recipe is versatile. The key is to use a tart fruit to balance the creamy sweetness of the cheese mixture. Also, using full-fat cottage cheese is non-negotiable here; low-fat versions will not provide that velvety mouthfeel that makes this dessert so comforting.

Variations

While the traditional combination of cottage cheese and cloudberries is a classic for a reason, the neutral base of the dairy allows for wonderful culinary experimentation. You can easily adapt this dish to suit the season or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few delicious twists on the original recipe to keep your dessert menu exciting:

• The Forest Berry Mix: Substitute cloudberries with a mix of lingonberry jam or fresh raspberries for a different tart profile.
• Honey and Walnut: Skip the fruit jam entirely and drizzle the warm cheese with darker honey and toasted walnuts for a baklava-inspired flavor.
• Cinnamon Apple: Top the grilled cheese with sautéed cinnamon apples for an autumn-inspired version.
• Savory Twist: Omit the sugar and vanilla, and top the warm cheese with fresh chives, dill, and a drizzle of olive oil for a unique side dish.
• Spiked Version: Stir a splash of cloudberry liqueur or rum into the jam before spooning it over the cheese.

Best pairings

To truly elevate this Swedish dessert, pairing it with the right beverage is essential. The richness of the warm cream and cheese requires something that can cleanse the palate or complement the cozy warmth of the dish. In Sweden, the most traditional pairing is a strong, dark roast coffee. The bitterness of the coffee contrasts perfectly with the sweet, creamy cheese and the tart berries. For a late-night treat, consider a glass of crisp, sweet dessert wine, such as a Sauternes or a Tokaji, which highlights the honeyed notes of the cloudberries. If you prefer a non-alcoholic cold option, an elderflower cordial with sparkling water provides a refreshing floral counterpoint that fits the Nordic theme perfectly. Serve this dish alongside simple ginger thins (Pepparkakor) to add a satisfying crunch to the soft textures of the dessert.

Conclusion

Swedish Grilled Cottage Cheese with Cloudberries is more than just a dessert; it is an experience of Northern European culture and the joy of outdoor cooking. By utilizing your Arteflame grill, you add an element of rustic charm and a whisper of wood smoke that takes this simple dish to gourmet heights. It is the perfect finale to a heavy meal, offering lightness through the berries and comfort through the warm dairy. Whether you stick to the traditional cloudberry jam or experiment with your own fruit toppings, this recipe is sure to become a beloved addition to your grilling repertoire. So, gather your friends around the fire, serve up a bowl of this warm, golden delight, and enjoy the simple pleasures of good food and great company.