Keitos

Keitos, also known as ketoos or keetoos, refers to a type of traditional Finnish dessert. It is typically a baked or steamed fruit compote, often made with apples, plums, or berries. The base ingredient is usually a cooked fruit, which is then thickened with a batter. This batter can be made from flour, eggs, and sometimes milk or sugar, creating a somewhat pudding-like or custardy texture as it cooks with the fruit.

The preparation of keitos can vary. Some recipes involve cooking the fruit first and then pouring the batter over it before baking or steaming. Other methods might involve incorporating the fruit directly into a thicker batter. The final consistency can range from quite soft and spoonable to a more solid, cake-like dessert. Keitos is often served warm, sometimes accompanied by cream, vanilla sauce, or ice cream. It is a simple and comforting dessert that highlights the natural sweetness and flavor of the fruits used. Historically, it was a way to utilize seasonal fruits and extend their availability. While not as widely known internationally as some other Scandinavian desserts, keitos remains a beloved treat in Finnish homes.