Sweet Treats from the Netherlands – Stroopwafels, Speculaas & More

The Netherlands is not only famous for its iconic savory dishes but also for its rich tradition of delicious sweet treats. From crispy cookies to chewy caramel-filled wafers, Dutch desserts have a unique charm that makes them a must-try when visiting or exploring the flavors of this wonderful country. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most beloved Dutch sweets—stroopwafels, speculaas, and Dutch licorice—and share recipes or the best places to enjoy these sweet delights.

1. Stroopwafels: A Caramel-Lover’s Dream

One of the most famous Dutch sweets worldwide is the stroopwafel, a crispy yet soft waffle filled with a gooey caramel syrup. This beloved treat originated in the city of Gouda in the 18th century and has since become a signature snack enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

A traditional stroopwafel consists of two thin, round waffles with a sticky caramel filling sandwiched in between. The waffles have a delicate crunch, while the caramel center is warm and sweet, making it irresistible with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Where to Try: While you can find stroopwafels in supermarkets and cafes across the Netherlands, the best place to sample these caramel-filled delights is at a local market stall. The Albert Cuypmarkt in Amsterdam is famous for its freshly made stroopwafels, where vendors prepare the treat right in front of you, offering a warm, gooey version that is truly unbeatable.

Recipe for Homemade Stroopwafels:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat a waffle iron and lightly grease it.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, butter, egg, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Add milk and mix until dough forms. Divide dough into small balls.
3. Place a ball of dough in the waffle iron and press until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
4. While the waffles are cooking, prepare the filling by melting brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and cinnamon over low heat until smooth.
5. Slice each waffle in half horizontally and spread the caramel filling between the two halves. Press together and let cool before serving.

2. Speculaas: Spiced Dutch Cookies

Another beloved Dutch treat is speculaas, a spiced shortcrust cookie that’s often shaped into intricate patterns or festive forms. The flavors of speculaas are warm and aromatic, thanks to the blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and cardamom. These cookies are especially popular during the holiday season but are enjoyed year-round by those with a sweet tooth.

Speculaas cookies are crispy and have a distinct, deep flavor that’s perfect with a cup of coffee. They’re often baked in molds to create fun, decorative shapes like windmills, hearts, or even traditional Dutch figures.

Where to Try: While you can find speculaas at many bakeries and stores, one of the best places to enjoy them is at Kruidvat, a well-known Dutch store that sells a variety of speculaas products. Alternatively, many local bakeries in the Netherlands sell homemade speculaas during the colder months, offering the freshest, most flavorful versions.

Recipe for Homemade Speculaas:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp ginger
• 1/2 tsp cloves
• 1/2 tsp cardamom
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar together. Add the egg and mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, spices, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes.
5. Place the cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

3. Dutch Licorice (Drop): An Acquired Taste

While licorice may not be for everyone, drop—Dutch licorice—holds a special place in Dutch culture. Known for its strong, salty flavor, this treat is beloved by many in the Netherlands. Dutch licorice comes in various forms, from sweet to salty, and is often shaped into small rounds, twists, or little coins. It’s not uncommon to find licorice-flavored ice cream or even licorice lollipops, making it an adventurous choice for candy lovers.

Where to Try: Licorice can be found in many shops across the Netherlands, but specialty licorice stores like Hema or Dutch Licorice Store offer a wide variety of options to explore.

Types of Dutch Licorice:

• Zoute Drop: This salty licorice is the most traditional and popular in the Netherlands. It’s an acquired taste, with a sharp, salty flavor that contrasts with the sweetness found in other types of licorice.
• Zoet Drop: A sweeter version of licorice, ideal for those who prefer a milder flavor.