Munkki, translated as monks, are popular Finnish deep-fried doughnuts made with buttery, cardamom-flavored, leavened dough. They are usually shaped into round forms that are occasionally complemented with sweet and fruity fillings, or in the shape of thick rings rolled in fine sugar.

Numerous theories surround the origin of their name, from the idea that the round shape resembles the traditional hairstyle or the brown attire of the monks, to the claim that the monks originally prepared these deep-fried delicacies during Lent. Today, munkki are traditionally associated with May Day; the national festivity celebrated on May 1st.

Translated as Christmas tart, the Finnish joulutorttu is a traditional, crispy pastry that is usually consumed during the Christmas period. It is prepared with thin puff pastry sheets filled with plum jam, with each corner wrapped to resemble a star or a pinwheel.

Baked until golden brown in color, this festive pastry is usually served dusted with powdered sugar. Apart from Finland, it is also popular in some parts of Sweden, where it is also enjoyed as a traditional Christmas treat.

Closely resembling Swedish semla, this sweet Finnish pastry is prepared with yeasted, cardamom-spiced dough that is shaped into buns and baked until golden. Each bun is cut in half and filled with strawberry or raspberry jam and whipped cream.

Following the Swedish tradition, fruit jams are occasionally replaced with a layer of creamy almond paste. Laskiaispulla is traditionally associated with Shrove Tuesday, but it is a popular mainstay throughout the winter season. It is usually served decorated with powdered or coarse sugar.

This large, half-moon shaped Finnish pastry is a specialty of the Savonia region, where it is commonly sold at the local markets. Lörtsy is usually deep-fried and comes in a variety of sweet and savory fillings such as minced meat or various jams.

It is best enjoyed freshly prepared as a savory snack or a sugar-coated dessert.

Karjalanpiirakka is a traditional pasty consisting of various fillings wrapped in a thin rye crust. It is traditionally formed into an oval shape, and the top is always left open to showcase the creamy filling that is nowadays mainly prepared with rice or barley porridge and mashed potatoes.

When baked, each piece is brushed with melted butter and usually enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or lunch. Traditionally, Karelian pasty is served topped with munavoi—a creamy butter and egg spread.