When you think of the Netherlands, images of windmills, tulip fields, and charming canals might come to mind. However, this beautiful country is also known for its rich culinary traditions, especially when it comes to cookies. Dutch cookies are a delightful part of their culture, each with its own unique story and flavor. Growing up in Holland, I have fond memories of wandering through local markets with the incredible smell of fresh-baked cookies. When I moved to the US in 2019, I brought with me a deep-rooted love for these Dutch delicacies. I've spent countless hours baking these treats for friends and family, and now I'm eager to share my cookie cravings with you.
Let's go through 14 traditional Dutch cookies that you simply must try, and discover what makes them so special.
1. Stroopwafels
Stroopwafels are probably the most well-known Dutch treat. These delightful cookies consist of two thin, crispy waffles with a sweet syrup filling in the middle. They originated in the city of Gouda in the 18th century and were originally made from leftover cookie crumbs. Today, they're enjoyed warm over a cup of coffee or tea, allowing the syrup to soften and become even more delicious. The combination of crispy and chewy textures, along with the rich caramel flavor, makes them a beloved snack. Today, you can find gluten-free and vegan versions, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this iconic cookie.
Stroopwafel Cookies from Dutch Waffle Company
2. Speculaas
Speculaas cookies are one of my personal favorites. Speculaas are spiced biscuit cookies that are especially popular around the Sinterklaas holiday in early December. These cookies are known for their distinctive flavors, thanks to a mix of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. They often come in festive shapes, created using wooden molds that press patterns into the dough. The result is a crunchy cookie that's perfect for dipping into a warm drink.
Speculaas cookies are often enjoyed with coffee
3. Bitterkoekjes
Bitterkoekjes, or almond macaroons, have a soft, chewy texture and a slightly bitter almond flavor, which balances out their sweetness. Made from ground almonds, sugar, and egg whites, these cookies are a classic choice for almond lovers. They’re typically enjoyed with a cup of coffee, offering a delightful mix of flavors that complement the drink perfectly.
Fresh baked bitterkoekjes cookies
4. Pepernoten / Kruidnoten
Pepernoten or kruidnoten are small, crunchy cookies that are a must-have during the Sinterklaas (Dutch Santa Claus) celebrations. They're flavored with a mix of spices similar to speculaas, including cinnamon, cloves, and anise. These bite-sized cookies are often scattered around homes and offices during the festive season, making them a fun and tasty tradition.
Pepernoten are often enjoyed with various candies during Sinterklaas (Dutch Santa Claus)
5. Kletskoppen
Kletskoppen are thin, crispy cookies made from butter, sugar, and finely chopped almonds. The name translates to "chatter heads," perhaps referring to their light, crunchy texture. These cookies have a caramelized flavor and a satisfying crunch, making them a perfect snack on their own or a tasty addition to a bowl of ice cream.
Freshly baked Kletskoppen cookies
6. Jan Hagel
Jan Hagel cookies are a traditional Dutch favorite, especially during the Christmas season. They have a buttery, crumbly texture and are topped with sugar and slivered almonds. The name's origin is a bit mysterious, but these cookies have been a household staple for generations. They're great for enjoying with a warm drink and are often shared with friends and family during the holidays.
7. Gevulde Koeken
Gevulde koeken are filled cookies with a buttery crust and a sweet almond paste center. They're typically topped with a whole almond for decoration. These rich and satisfying cookies are perfect for a more indulgent treat, often enjoyed with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. The combination of flaky pastry and creamy filling is simply irresistible.
8. Kokosmakronen
Kokosmakronen are coconut macaroons that have a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy inside. Made with shredded coconut, sugar, and egg whites, these cookies are a simple yet delicious option for those who love coconut. They're often enjoyed plain or dipped in chocolate for an extra layer of flavor.
9. Arnhemse Meisjes
Arnhemse Meisjes, named after the city of Arnhem, are light and crispy puff pastry cookies. They are coated in sugar before baking, which caramelizes to create a sweet, crunchy layer. These cookies have a delicate texture and a subtle buttery taste, making them a delightful treat for any time of day.
10. Eierkoeken
Eierkoeken, or egg cakes, are soft, cake-like cookies that are a popular snack in the Netherlands. They are light and airy, made with eggs, sugar, and flour. Eierkoeken can be eaten plain or with a spread of butter or jam. They are a versatile treat, perfect for breakfast or as a light snack.
11. Knieperties
Knieperties are thin, crispy cookies from the northern parts of the Netherlands, traditionally eaten around New Year's. They are made with a simple batter that is pressed into a waffle iron to create a very thin, crisp cookie. Knieperties are often rolled into a cone shape while still warm and can be enjoyed plain or filled with whipped cream or ice cream.
12. Ontbijtkoek
Ontbijtkoek, which translates to "breakfast cake," is a spiced gingerbread loaf. While not a cookie in the traditional sense, it's often sliced and eaten like one. Made with rye flour, honey, and spices, this cake has a dense, moist texture and a warm flavor. It's a popular breakfast choice and is typically served with a spread of butter.
13. Kaasstengels
Kaasstengels, translating to "cheese sticks," are a savory delight that showcase the Dutch love for cheese. These crispy, flaky sticks are made from a simple dough enriched with generous amounts of Dutch cheese, typically Gouda or Edam. The dough is rolled out thin, cut into strips, and baked until golden and crunchy. The result is a rich, cheesy snack that's perfect for any occasion.
14. Taai taai
Taai taai, which translates to "tough tough," is a unique Dutch spiced cookie that has a distinctive chewy texture, unlike any other cookie. These cookies are traditionally associated with the Sinterklaas holiday, celebrated on December 5th. Taai taai's name is a nod to its texture—dense and chewy, owing to the use of rye flour and a special blend of spices, including anise, cinnamon, and cloves.
The dough for taai taai is often shaped using traditional wooden molds into figures representing Sinterklaas, his horse, or other festive shapes. These molds add to the charm of the cookies, making them a delightful treat for children and adults alike. The unique blend of spices gives taai taai its characteristic warm and slightly spicy flavor, which pairs perfectly with a hot cup of tea or coffee during the cold winter months.
Dutch cookie recipes
If you’ve got a favorite Dutch cookie recipe—whether it’s a cherished family secret or a new discovery—I’d love to hear about it. Let’s keep the cookie conversation going! Feel free to share your go-to recipes, baking tips, or any Dutch-inspired treats you’ve created. I hope this exploration into Dutch baking has sparked your curiosity and inspired you to dive into the delightful world of Dutch cookies. Whether you’re baking up a storm or just enjoying these treats from your local bakery, I wish you happy baking (or at least, happy eating)!
The bottom line
Here are 14 iconic Dutch cookies. From the warm, caramel-filled stroopwafels to the spicy kick of speculaas, each cookie has its own story and flavor. Have you had the chance to try any of these Dutch cookies? Which ones have become your favorites? Share your experiences, thoughts, and any tasty discoveries you’ve made in the comments below!
