Top 10 Dutch Desserts & Sweets
The Netherlands is home to a variety of delicious desserts, each having its distinct flavor and texture. From Boterkoek’s rich buttery taste to Gevulde Koeken’s almond-filled center, these treats are sure to satisfy any craving. So why not indulge in a little Dutch sweetness today?
So go ahead, grab those oven mitts and start baking up one of my top 10 traditional Dutch treats — you won’t be disappointed!
1. Stroopwafel
Are you ready for a delicious treat that’s been tantalizing taste buds for centuries? Meet the Stroopwafel! The waffle cookies filled with caramel date back to the late 18th century when they were first created in the Netherlands and now are popular around the world.
When you bite into the crisp, golden brown exterior and hit the chewy caramel center your mouth is in for a party! Pair it with your morning cup of java or afternoon tea for an extra special experience. Feeling creative? Crush them up and use them as a topping for your ice cream, or even make a Stroopwafel cheesecake!
Trust me, once you’ve tried a Stroopwafel, you’ll never go back to plain ole cookies again. With their crispy exterior and gooey interior, they are enjoyable for even the most finicky eaters. So go ahead, indulge in a little piece of Dutch heaven and experience the magic of the Stroopwafel!
2. Dutch Apple Pie
Dutch Apple Pie. These three words alone have the power to make your taste buds dance with excitement. Picture it now — a warm, flaky crust filled to the brim with juicy, cinnamon-sprinkled apples.
Each bite is like a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy, with a satisfying crunch from the streusel topping. And we mustn’t forget the most important part — a spoonful of fresh whipped cream, the ideal addition to this divine dessert.
But what makes Dutch Apple Pie so special? Is it the perfect combination of tart and sweet? The comforting aroma that fills your entire home as it bakes to golden perfection? All I know is Dutch Apple Pie is perfect for any occasion. Its appeal is undeniable. So don’t hesitate — grab a fork and dig in. Your taste buds will thank you so much!
3. Speculaas Cookies
Are you a fan of cookies that have a distinctive crunch and crumble? If the answer is yes, then you simply must try out Speculaas cookies! These bites of heaven are characterized by their warm, spicy flavor and are best enjoyed with a piping hot cup of tea or coffee.
These cookies originally came from the Netherlands and were only baked during the holiday season. However, due to their popularity, they are now eaten year-round.
What makes these cookies so special? The spices — it’s all about the spices! The inclusion of nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom gives these cookies their unique aroma and delicious flavor. Many bakers even go the extra mile and make designs on the cookies with special, intricately carved wooden Speculaas molds.
If you haven’t tried these cookies yet, don’t wait any longer — they are worth e.v.e.r.y. single extra calorie!
4. Oliebollen
The Dutch sure know how to treat themselves during the holiday season. And what better way to indulge in happiness than with some freshly made Oliebollen?
These deep-fried dough balls sprinkled with powdered sugar are a staple in Dutch culture and are usually enjoyed on New Year’s Eve. But let’s be real, who can resist biting into a hot and crispy Oliebol any time of year?
The best part about Oliebollen is that they are perfect for sharing, so consider making a big batch with your friends and family for an unforgettable snack experience. So, bring on the Dutch vibes, and let’s start frying up some doughy goodness!
5. Krakelingen
Krakelingen, the sweet pretzels hailing from the Netherlands, are a sheer delight to the taste buds of those who love sweet and salty combos. These pretzels, resembling a tiny twisted bread, are iconic in Dutch cuisine and can be commonly found in street vendors, local bakeries, and cafes.
The crispy, golden brown exterior of Krakelingen invites you to take a bite, and as you sink your teeth into its soft and chewy interior, the sweetness starts to hit you slowly. It’s a great choice for satisfying late-night cravings or for enjoying as a dessert after a filling meal.
Whether you dip it into hot chocolate or nibble it dry, the Krakelingen will surely make your taste buds dance with joy. So indulge in this Dutch delight and experience a burst of flavors in every bite!
6. Kruidnoten
Get ready to spice up your taste buds with the ultimate Dutch delight — Kruidnoten! You’ll love these small, crispy cookies bursting with delicious flavors that will make you want more! Infused with traditional Dutch spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, Kruidnoten is the perfect snack to enjoy during the festive season.
Don’t be fooled by their small size; these petite sensations pack a punch of flavor in every bite. And let’s not forget the satisfying crunch that accompanies each cookie. One bite, and you’ll be hooked on this delectable Dutch treat. So, if you’re looking for a new snack to try, Kruidnoten is the way forward! Trust me — your taste buds won’t be disappointed!
7. Tompouce
Are you in the mood for a sweet that’s delicious and visually stunning? Look no further than the Tompouce, a classic Dutch pastry that’s sure to satisfy any craving. With its buttery layers of puff pastry, sweet vanilla cream filling, and a colorful layer of icing and sprinkles topping it off, Tompouce is a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Legend has it that the name Tompouce is derived from the pastry’s resemblance to the hat worn by a disgruntled politician named Tom Pouce. Regardless of its origins, one thing is for sure: Tompouce is a tasty and beloved Dutch treat that has stood the test of time. So go ahead and indulge in this indulgent pastry — your sweet tooth will thank you over and over!
8. Boterkoek
Have you ever tasted the deliciousness of Boterkoek? If not, why not? You are missing out on one incredible cake!
This traditional Dutch butter cake has a rich buttery flavor that will leave you craving more. Each slice of this delectable dessert is a perfect blend of sweetness and a crunchy texture that adds to its divinity. The incredibly soft fluffy texture of the cake will melt in your mouth, making you forget all your worries. It is the perfect tea-time treat, or you can indulge in it as a quick breakfast snack.
Whether you are a dessert lover, foodie, or simply want to try something new, Boterkoek is a must-try dessert that will surely take your breath away! So, what are you waiting for? Head to your local Dutch bakery or try making it at home and be prepared to revel in the obsession of Boterkoek’s deliciousness.
9. Gevulde Koeken
Have you ever heard of Gevulde Koeken? No? Then let me tell you more! Gevulde Koeken literally means filled cakes, and they are just that — mini cakes with a heavenly almond filling.
Picture this: a buttery, shortcrust pastry that crumbles with every bite, encasing a mouth-watering almond paste that oozes out as you sink your teeth into it. Does that sound delicious?
In fact, it’s so good that Gevulde Koeken has become a staple in Dutch cafes and bakeries, often enjoyed with a warm cup of coffee or tea. Its rich filling and delightful texture make it a treat to savor slowly, allowing your taste buds to experience every layer of flavor. If you ever have the chance to try a Gevulde Koek, do not hesitate. Trust me, your taste buds will love you forever!
10. Gevulde Speculaas
What happens when you combine sweet almond paste with the warm, spicy flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves? The answer is Gevulde Speculaas, a traditional Dutch pastry that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
This delightful dessert consists of a flaky layer of seasoned shortcrust pastry, filled with ample almond paste, and finished off with another layer of pastry. The result is a heavenly combination of textures and flavors that is impossible to resist. Gevulde Speculaas is best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven, with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
So, whether you’re looking for a tasty snack or a delicious dessert, Gevulde Speculaas is sure to hit the spot. Give it a try and experience the magic of this traditional Dutch pastry!
Wrapping It Up
Dutch desserts and sweets are known for their deliciousness, and the treats we’ve mentioned above definitely don’t disappoint. From the beloved Tompouce to Gevulde Speculaas, these traditional Dutch delights offer something for everyone — no matter what kind of sweet tooth you have!
So, if you’re ever in the Netherlands or just looking to indulge in some delightful desserts at home, make sure to try out these classic treats. You won’t regret it!
Smakelijk eten!
