If you’ve ever enjoyed a warm coffee or tea with a chewy, caramel-filled waffle cookie resting on top, you’ve experienced one of the Netherlands’ most beloved treats: the stroopwafel. But have you ever wondered where stroopwafels came from? Let’s dive into the fascinating history of the stroopwafel and how this Dutch classic went from a local specialty to an international favorite.
Where Did the Stroopwafel Originate?
The stroopwafel was first created in Gouda, Netherlands, sometime in the late 18th or early 19th century. Gouda may be most famous for its cheese, but it also has a rich tradition of baking. Local bakers are credited with inventing the first versions of the stroopwafel by pressing thin layers of baked dough together with a sweet syrup (stroop) filling. The syrup or what we call stroop filling, is traditionally a caramel-like flavor, made from a combination of sugar, butter, syrup, and cinnamon.
What started as a clever way to use leftover crumbs and dough soon evolved into a distinct recipe all its own. Over time, bakers perfected the thin, crisp waffles and the signature caramel-like filling that makes stroopwafels irresistible today.
What Makes Stroopwafels Special?
Unlike other cookies, stroopwafels are designed to be paired with a hot drink. Traditionally, you place the waffle over a steaming cup of coffee or tea. The heat gently softens the caramel center, creating a gooey, chewy bite that perfectly complements your beverage.
This unique ritual is part of what has made the stroopwafel such an enduring favorite—not just in the Netherlands, but around the world.
Stroopwafels Today: A Global Treat
Fast forward to today, and stroopwafels are enjoyed in coffee shops, homes, and offices across the globe. From their humble beginnings in Gouda to their current status as an iconic Dutch export, stroopwafels have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of dessert lovers everywhere. From age 7 to 104, one thing never changes—a love for this crispy, crunchy caramel classic.
Here at Dutch Waffle Company, we honor this tradition while also looking forward to it. Our No-Bake Stroopwafel Pie Crust and innovative recipes bring a modern twist to a timeless classic.
Innovation at Dutch Waffle Company
Experimenting with flavors, textures, and new ideas is at the heart of what we do. Innovation is how we grow, how we surprise our customers, and how we keep desserts exciting. You never know—today’s kitchen experiment could become tomorrow’s next favorite snack.
So whether you’re baking at home or enjoying one of our creations, remember: don’t stop experimenting. Magic happens when curiosity meets creativity. ✨
The history of the stroopwafel shows us that even the simplest ideas—two thin waffles with caramel in between—can become something extraordinary with a little imagination and persistence. From Gouda’s local markets to coffee tables worldwide, stroopwafels remind us that tradition and innovation go hand in hand.
So the next time you enjoy a stroopwafel with your coffee, you’re not just having a treat—you’re taking part in a delicious story centuries in the making.
