If you’re looking to embrace a cozy tradition straight from the heart of Norway, then let the Rømmegrøt Recipe whisk you away! This creamy sour cream porridge is beloved for its impossibly silky texture, buttery richness, and just the right hint of sweetness and spice. Whether you serve it for a holiday breakfast or a comforting midweek treat, Rømmegrøt is Norway’s way of sharing a warm culinary hug—one rooted in celebration, nostalgia, and the simple magic of wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish shines thanks to a small but essential cast of ingredients. Each adds its own character, from tangy richness to comforting warmth. Here’s what you’ll need (and why they all matter):
- Full-Fat Sour Cream (2 cups): The soul of this Rømmegrøt Recipe, giving the porridge its classic tang and luscious creaminess.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Essential for thickening and helping that signature velvety texture come to life.
- Whole Milk (2 cups): Balances out the tartness of sour cream and makes everything beautifully smooth and pourable.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Don’t skip this—it brightens all the flavors and keeps things from tasting flat.
- Granulated Sugar (2 tablespoons): A gentle sweetness that perfectly partners with the tangy cream and warm spices.
- Optional for Serving: Cinnamon, More Sugar, Melted Butter: The traditional trio for topping Rømmegrøt, adding an irresistible aroma and an extra touch of indulgence.
How to Make Rømmegrøt Recipe
Step 1: Simmer the Sour Cream
Start by adding your full-fat sour cream to a large saucepan and set it over medium heat. Gently bring it to a simmer—watch the pot, as it can bubble up! Stir often for about 15 minutes, letting the heat work its magic to thicken and intensify the cream’s tangy flavor. This is the foundation that makes every Rømmegrøt Recipe so deliciously unique.
Step 2: Whisk in the Flour
Gradually add the flour, just a few tablespoons at a time. Whisk constantly to prevent any unwanted lumps (a smooth porridge is key). You’ll notice the mixture starts to thicken and even separate a bit as butterfat rises to the surface—don’t worry, this is exactly what you want!
Step 3: Skim Off the Butterfat
As the porridge thickens, a layer of golden butter will form on top. Gently skim this off with a spoon and set aside—it’s liquid gold for serving! This traditional step gives your Rømmegrøt Recipe even more richness and authenticity.
Step 4: Incorporate the Milk
With the butterfat removed, slowly pour the whole milk into the pot, whisking the entire time. Add it bit by bit, stirring constantly to keep things ultra-smooth. The porridge will begin to relax and turn irresistibly creamy.
Step 5: Finish and Sweeten
Let the mixture cook for another 5 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Then, stir in the salt and granulated sugar. Your kitchen will smell incredible, and the final texture should be cocoa-like: thick, smooth, and gently flowing. Taste and tweak sweetness as you like—it’s all about making your perfect bowl.
How to Serve Rømmegrøt Recipe

Garnishes
The traditional toppings are not just for looks—they truly elevate the experience! Drizzle the reserved melted butter over each serving, then dust generously with cinnamon and more sugar. Every spoonful becomes a dreamy mix of creamy, sweet, spicy, and rich.
Side Dishes
Rømmegrøt pairs beautifully with salty cured meats (especially if you’re serving it for a festive meal), or alongside crisp crackers and fresh berries. The contrast of salty or fruity flavors highlights the comforting creaminess of the porridge.
Creative Ways to Present
For a modern twist, try serving individual portions in small dessert cups or glasses, layered with fruit compote or roasted nuts. Or if you want to keep things classic, ladle it into a communal bowl—perfect for everyone to dip in and share!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Rømmegrøt, transfer it to an airtight container as soon as it’s cooled. It’ll keep happily in the fridge for up to 3 days and remains just as luscious (if not more!) on day two.
Freezing
This porridge actually freezes better than you might think. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, then freeze for up to one month. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before reheating and give it a good stir to restore that creamy consistency.
Reheating
Warm your Rømmegrøt Recipe gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it needs loosening. Stir often, and it will return to its luxurious, silky state, ready to be topped and enjoyed all over again.
FAQs
Is the Rømmegrøt Recipe sweet or savory?
It’s traditionally a little bit of both! The base is rich and slightly tangy from the sour cream, with a touch of sweetness from sugar, and you can make it more dessert-like or keep it subtle depending on how much sugar and cinnamon you add on top.
Can I use low-fat sour cream?
For that authentic, indulgent Norwegian flavor, full-fat is truly best. Low-fat sour cream won’t separate as well and may lead to a thinner, less creamy porridge. If you’re looking to lighten it up, try substituting just a portion with low-fat but expect a little less luxury.
What’s the best milk substitute for this Rømmegrøt Recipe?
Whole milk is classic, but you can also use half-and-half or even a little heavy cream for extra richness. Plant-based milks can work in a pinch, though the flavor won’t be quite as traditional.
Why do you skim the butter off, and do I have to?
Skimming off the butterfat is a traditional step that creates a truly smooth porridge and gives you a delicious, nutty butter for serving. If you prefer, you can skip this step and stir everything together, but the skimming adds that authentic touch.
Can I double the Rømmegrøt Recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! This recipe scales up beautifully. Just be sure to use a large pot, and allow extra time for stirring so nothing sticks to the bottom. It’s a real showstopper at potlucks or holiday gatherings.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried making the Rømmegrøt Recipe at home, I can’t encourage you enough—few dishes offer such pure comfort with so little effort. Whether it’s a frosty winter morning or a holiday celebration, one bowl of this rich, spoonable Norwegian porridge is all it takes to make everyone feel warm, welcome, and wonderfully full.