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 try!
1. Stroopwafels
As a lover of all things sweet and indulgent, I have always had a soft spot for the irresistible Dutch delicacy, of 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.
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 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.
3. Poffertjes
Poffertjes are a traditional Dutch dessert that I 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 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.
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 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.
5. Appeltaart (Dutch apple pie)
Dutch apple pie is a classic dessert that I 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 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.
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.
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 quite simple. The most important part of making this drink is to use high-quality ingredients and to take your time. The 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.
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 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 worth trying out
9. Bitterkoekjes (Almond macaroons)
Almond macaroons are a sweet, chewy, and nutty treat that I 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.