As someone who visited the Netherlands, I have had the pleasure of experiencing the delicious Dutch cuisine, including their desserts. Dutch desserts are known for their simple yet comforting flavors that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. From fluffy poffertjes to gooey stroopwafels, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Dutch desserts are often made with local ingredients such as fresh fruits, dairy products, and traditional spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. These ingredients are often combined in unique ways to create the distinct flavors that are synonymous with Dutch cuisine.
Whether you are a local or a visitor, trying out some of the famous Dutch desserts is a must. These desserts are not only delicious but also offer a glimpse into the culture and traditions of the Netherlands. So, grab a cup of coffee or tea, and let’s explore the top 10 famous Dutch desserts that you should definitely try!
1. Stroopwafels
As a lover of all things sweet and indulgent, I have always had a soft spot for the irresistible Dutch delicacy, stroopwafels. These thin waffle-like cookies, with a deliciously gooey caramel filling, are the perfect treat for any time of day. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea, as a snack on the go, or as a dessert after a meal, stroopwafels are the ultimate indulgence.
The thought of making stroopwafels from scratch might seem daunting, but with the help of a stroopwafel iron, it couldn’t be easier. This recipe for homemade stroopwafels has quickly become a go-to for me, as it allows me to recreate this classic Dutch treat in the comfort of my own home.
The process of making stroopwafels with a stroopwafel iron is simple yet satisfying. The dough is made with pantry staples like flour, sugar, and butter, while the caramel filling is made with brown sugar, butter, and a touch of cinnamon. Once the dough is rolled out and cooked on the stroopwafel iron, it is cut in half and filled with the caramel filling, resulting in a sweet and sticky sandwich cookie that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the caramel filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup dark corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, instant yeast, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter, warm milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for about an hour in a warm place.
- Preheat your waffle iron. Divide the dough into small balls (around 1 1/2 tbsp each) and place them on the waffle iron. Cook for around 30 seconds until they turn golden brown.
- Take the waffles out of the waffle iron and cut them in half horizontally. Set aside.
- For the caramel filling, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add in the brown sugar, dark corn syrup, cinnamon, and salt. Cook and stir constantly until it thickens and reaches a caramel consistency.
- Place a spoonful of the caramel filling on the bottom half of each waffle and then place the top half back on. Press lightly to seal the caramel in between the waffles.
- Serve warm and enjoy your homemade stroopwafels!
2. Oliebollen
Oliebollen, also known as Dutch donuts, are a traditional Dutch treat that are typically enjoyed around New Year’s Eve. These fluffy, deep-fried dough balls are studded with raisins and dusted with powdered sugar, making them a sweet and indulgent treat.
I absolutely love this recipe from Insimone’s Kitchen for oliebollen because it is a great way to bring a taste of the Netherlands into my home, no matter where I am in the world. The recipe is easy to follow and results in delicious, fluffy oliebollen that taste just like the ones I remember from my childhood.
One of the best things about oliebollen is that they are incredibly versatile. You can add in different types of dried fruits or nuts to customize the flavor, or even add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra kick of spice. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the fryer or reheated the next day, oliebollen are a delicious and comforting treat that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
- 500g flour
- 7g active dry yeast
- 375ml lukewarm milk
- 1 egg
- 50g sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 150g raisins
- 150g currants
- Sunflower oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
- Add the lukewarm milk and egg to the dry ingredients and mix well until a sticky dough is formed.
- Stir in the raisins and currants until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise for 60-90 minutes in a warm, draft-free place.
- Heat the sunflower oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven to 180°C.
- Using a tablespoon or ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and cooked through, turning occasionally.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the oliebollen from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Dust the oliebollen with powdered sugar and serve warm.
3. Poffertjes
Poffertjes are a traditional Dutch dessert that I absolutely love. These tiny, fluffy pancakes are a perfect treat for any time of day, and they’re especially delicious when topped with a generous drizzle of melted butter and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. I first tasted poffertjes while traveling through the Netherlands and I was immediately hooked on their delicious, slightly sweet flavor.
What makes poffertjes so unique is the way they’re cooked. Traditionally, they’re made using a special cast-iron pan with small, shallow depressions that allow the batter to cook evenly on both sides. The result is a stack of perfectly round and fluffy pancakes that are simply irresistible.
This recipe for poffertjes from Practical Self Reliance is my favorite because it’s easy to follow and produces amazing results. The batter comes together quickly with just a few simple ingredients, and the end result is a plate of warm, fluffy pancakes that are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time in between. If you’re a fan of Dutch cuisine or just looking to try something new, I highly recommend giving these poffertjes a try.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Powdered sugar, for serving
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Add warm milk to the bowl and mix until smooth.
- Add eggs and melted butter to the mixture and whisk until smooth.
- Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rest in a warm place for at least an hour, until the batter doubles in size.
- Heat a poffertjes pan or a small frying pan over medium heat.
- Grease the pan with butter or oil and fill each cavity or scoop with the batter until it’s about three-quarters full.
- Cook the poffertjes for about a minute or until the bottom is golden brown.
- Use a skewer or a fork to flip the poffertjes over and cook the other side for another minute or until golden brown.
- Remove the poffertjes from the pan and sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
4. Speculaas
As a lover of all things sweet, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting dessert recipes to try. That’s why I was thrilled to discover this classic Dutch recipe for Speculoos cookies. With their distinctive spicy flavor and crispy texture, these cookies are the perfect indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how simple and straightforward it is. With just a few basic ingredients, including cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, you can create a batch of delicious Speculoos cookies that are perfect for sharing with friends and family.
But it’s not just the taste and simplicity of this recipe that makes it so appealing to me. There’s also something special about the way these cookies bring to mind the rich culinary heritage of the Netherlands, and the warmth and comfort of home-baked treats. So whether you’re looking to explore new flavors and traditions, or just want to indulge in a little bit of sweet nostalgia, this recipe for Speculoos cookies is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp cloves
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until creamy and smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually stir in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop 1 tablespoon portions of dough and roll them into balls.
- Place the cookie dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly with your fingers or a fork.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Appeltaart (Dutch apple pie)
Dutch apple pie is a classic dessert that I absolutely adore. There’s something so comforting about the combination of warm, spiced apples and a buttery, flaky crust. This recipe from Cooking Classy is one of my favorites because it strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart, and the topping adds an extra layer of texture and flavor.
The recipe starts with a homemade crust, which can seem intimidating, but it’s actually quite simple with the right instructions. The filling is made with fresh apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar, creating a warm and cozy flavor profile that’s perfect for fall. And the crumbly topping made with flour, sugar, and butter adds a crunchy texture that perfectly complements the soft, gooey apples.
What I love most about this Dutch apple pie recipe is that it’s a classic that never gets old. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family, and always manages to put a smile on everyone’s face. So, if you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and delicious, I highly recommend giving this Dutch apple pie a try.
Ingredients:
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 6 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp ground allspice
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well and pour into the prepared pie crust.
- In a separate bowl, combine the butter, flour, light brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and oats. Mix until crumbly and sprinkle over the apple mixture in the pie crust.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired. Enjoy!
6. Dutch chocolate sprinkles (Hagelslag)
As a lover of sweet and simple treats, I cannot help but adore the Dutch delicacy known as hagelslag. This delectable snack consists of bread, butter, and chocolate sprinkles, making it an easy and satisfying dessert that can be enjoyed any time of day. When I first tried hagelslag, I was surprised by how something so simple could be so delicious. The combination of creamy butter and sweet, crunchy chocolate sprinkles is simply irresistible.
This recipe for Dutch hagelslag bread is a wonderful way to enjoy this beloved treat in the comfort of your own home. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also allows you to customize your hagelslag to your liking. Whether you prefer dark or milk chocolate sprinkles or want to try something new like rainbow sprinkles, the possibilities are endless. Plus, this recipe is a fun way to introduce your friends and family to the delights of Dutch cuisine. Give it a try and prepare to be charmed by this simple yet satisfying dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of bread, sliced
- 1 cup of Dutch chocolate sprinkles (hagelslag)
- Butter, for spreading
Instructions:
- Toast the slices of bread until lightly golden brown.
- Spread a thin layer of butter on each slice of toast.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of chocolate sprinkles over the buttered toast, covering the entire surface.
- Serve and enjoy!
7. Advocaat (Dutch Eggnog)
Advocaat, also known as Dutch eggnog, is a traditional Dutch liqueur that is enjoyed during the holiday season. It is a creamy and smooth drink that is made from a mixture of egg yolks, sugar, brandy, and vanilla. This drink is a favorite among the Dutch and is usually served in small glasses or used as a topping for ice cream.
The process of making advocaat can seem intimidating at first, but it is actually quite simple. The most important part of making this drink is to use high-quality ingredients and to take your time. The end result is a delicious and creamy drink that is perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holiday season.
If you are a fan of creamy and indulgent drinks, then you will love advocaat. This recipe is perfect for those who are looking for a unique and traditional Dutch drink to enjoy during the holidays.
Ingredients:
- 6 egg yolks
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 cup of brandy
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks until they are light and frothy.
- Slowly add the sugar to the egg yolks, beating continuously until the mixture is thick and pale yellow.
- Stir in the brandy and vanilla extract.
- Pour the mixture into a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl that can fit over a pot of simmering water.
- Heat the mixture over low heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Transfer the mixture to a sterilized bottle or jar and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
8. Dutch Boterkoe
Dutch Boterkoek is a traditional Dutch butter cake that is simple yet irresistibly delicious. It has a rich, buttery flavor and a dense, chewy texture that makes it a perfect pairing with a cup of coffee or tea. As someone who has a sweet tooth, I absolutely love this cake and it has become one of my go-to dessert recipes.
What I love about this recipe is that it’s easy to make with just a few basic ingredients, yet it yields a cake that is full of flavor and has a beautiful presentation. The crispy, golden edges of the cake give way to a soft and buttery center that just melts in your mouth. It’s the perfect treat to have on hand for a quick snack, a family gathering, or even to give as a gift.
Overall, the Dutch Boterkoek is a classic and timeless dessert that is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re a fan of rich buttery flavors or just looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dessert, this recipe is definitely worth trying out
Ingredients:
- 200g unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 150g caster sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 250g plain flour
- Pinch of salt
- 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tbsp milk for egg wash
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas mark 4.
- Line the bottom and sides of a 20cm square baking tin with baking parchment.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add in the egg yolks and vanilla extract and beat until fully incorporated.
- Sift in the flour and salt, then fold the mixture together until it forms a soft dough.
- Spoon the dough into the prepared baking tin and flatten it out using the back of a spoon.
- Brush the top of the dough with the egg wash.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is lightly golden.
- Allow the Boterkoek to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before removing and transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice into squares or rectangles and serve.
9. Bitterkoekjes (Almond macaroons)
Almond macaroons are a sweet, chewy, and nutty treat that I absolutely adore. The combination of almond flour, sugar, and egg whites creates a light and delicate texture that is simply irresistible. I love making these cookies because they are easy to make and require only a handful of simple ingredients that I typically have on hand.
What I particularly enjoy about this recipe is how versatile it is. The basic recipe for almond macaroons can be easily adapted to suit different flavor preferences. Sometimes I add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm and cozy flavor, or I’ll mix in some chocolate chips or dried cranberries for an extra pop of sweetness.
Aside from the taste, I appreciate that these cookies are naturally gluten-free, which makes them a great option for friends or family members who are sensitive to gluten. They’re also relatively healthy, as they contain mostly almonds, egg whites, and sugar. Overall, almond macaroons are a wonderful dessert that can be enjoyed year-round, and I always find myself making a batch whenever I need a sweet pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 egg whites
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- Pinch of salt
- Sliced almonds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks.
- Fold the beaten egg whites into the almond flour mixture, along with the almond extract, until well combined.
- Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form the dough into balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. If desired, top each ball with a few sliced almonds.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown on the edges.
- Let the macaroons cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Conclusion
Thank you for taking the time to explore these 9 Famous Dutch Desserts with me. Dutch desserts are not only delicious, but they also provide a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Netherlands. Whether you have a sweet tooth or not, I hope this list has inspired you to try some traditional Dutch desserts and appreciate the unique flavors and ingredients used in these sweet treats. From the classic stroopwafels to the indulgent advocaat, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on these recipes. I wish you happy baking and indulging!
