8 Food Dishes That Are Absolute Symbols of Wisconsin

Quick! What food do you think of when you think of Wisconsin? Did you say cheese? If so, you’re in the majority. Did you know there are a variety of other delectable dishes this Midwestern state is famous for?

Savory soups, mouth-watering pastries, and yes… plenty of cheese! After reading about these 10 iconic lacesfoods from Wisconsin, you’ll be booking a flight just to try them!

1. Frozen Custard

Given how terribly cold Wisconsin winters are, seeing frozen custard on this list may come as a shock. If you’re a fan of ice cream, you have to try custard! It’s similar, with the exception that custard has more cream and sugar.

While it may not be great for the waistline, it’s fantastic for your tastebuds! This rich dessert came from Coney Island originally. That doesn’t stop people in Wisconsin from enjoying a dish or cone of custard all year round!

2. Kringle

In 2013, Kringle became Wisconsin’s official state pastry. A kringle is a confection from Northern Europe. It is a delicious pastry consisting of several layers of crispy buttery dough decorated with an array of fillings and garnishes.

Today, we think of kringle as a sugary or nutty delicacy, but historically, it was a type of pretzel. Why do the people in Wisconsin love this treat so much? The short explanation is that Wisconsin has a large Danish population.

In Racine, WI, several Danish families established bakeries as their primary source of income. Despite having origins in Denmark dating back to the 13th century, the modern-day type of kringle enjoyed in Wisconsin is an Americanized version.

3. Maple Syrup

Wisconsin takes the fifth spot in terms of maple syrup production in the United States. Maybe it’s because this sticky, sweet topping pairs well on pancakes on a warm day. There’s an entire organization dedicated to the pure production of maple syrup.

If you’re one of those folks who can’t get enough breakfast foods, you know how important good maple syrup is poured over just about anything. If you haven’t tried breakfast sausage dipped in maple syrup, you’re missing out.

This essential component for meals in America’s Dairyland is a genuine labor of love that takes a lot of time, effort, and dedication. The state produced an incredible 440,000 gallons in 2022 alone!

4. Cheese Curds

How could we write about delicious food in Wisconsin without mentioning a cheese dish? Cheese curds are regarded as one of the tastiest foods in the state. When making cheese, the milk is heated until the whey and curds split.

The mixture is placed into a mold and pressed to make tasty treats that can be eaten plain or spiced with additional ingredients like onion or jalapenos. Having a variety of cheeses renders this cuisine even more appealing.

Cheddar cheese is by far the most popular cheese to be used in Wisconsin curds. Don’t be shocked if you come across this well-known dish on a wide range of restaurant menus. It’s a rich and savory treat that pairs great with almost any entree.

5. Beer Cheese Soup

Leave it to the Midwest to take two things people love and combine them. Beer cheese soup is exactly what it sounds like. All winter long, warm bread and crumbled bacon can be added to a soup made from beer and creamy, pungent cheese.

If you know anyone from Wisconsin, you’ll know that beer and cheese are two of the main food groups that get you through the winter! Whether you’re in a fine dining restaurant or your local dive bar, you’re sure to find beer cheese soup on the menu.

6. Morel Mushrooms

Did you know there are over 50,000 different varieties of mushrooms. The morel is the most celebrated in Wisconsin. People quite literally go hunting for them around sandy soil and south-facing regions.

You can forage for these delectable treats in a number of the state’s public forests. After picking them, you can fry the mushrooms, sautee them with garlic and onion, just never eat them raw.

7. Butter Burgers

Easily one of the best foods that Wisconsin has is the butter burger. Because this is far from a healthy meal, it’s a nice treat once in a while. Butter is used in the cooking of the meat, the cooking of the onions, and the brushing of butter on the buns to ensure that you have enough fats that will keep you satisfied and your belly full all day long!

There’s a restaurant the hails from Wisconsin called Culvers. This place is famous for butter burgers. They pair perfectly with a side of cheese curds and the flavor of the day custard!

8. Beer Bratwurst

In Wisconsin, summer and football season would not be complete without beer brats. No summer barbeque or tailgate celebration would be complete if it didn’t have beer brats! This food is exactly what it sounds like.

Take a brat, onions, and beer, bringing them to a boil on the stove. When you’re ready to eat, grab a brat, top it with the caramelized onions, and enjoy!

Summary of the Best Food in Wisconsin