Oh my gosh, these cookies are SO GOOD. I am fully convinced that a spiced almond cookie is the only thing that matters in the world today.
1. Dutch Stroopwafels
Most people recognize these iconic treats even without tasting one yet. Their legendary status is fully earned because they are absolutely incredible.
You get a thin crispiness paired with a sticky caramel middle that demands finger licking.
Perfecting them takes patience plus a waffle iron. The effort pays off immensely in flavor.
2. Marzipan-Stuffed Cookie or Dutch Gevulde Koeken
Think of these stuffed delights as miniature pies packed with marzipan. Preparation is easy while delivering a wonderful sugary lemon profile.
You get crispy edges surrounding a fluffy interior that resembles cake.
Marzipan lovers will adore this texture immediately. Even skeptics should taste one since almost everyone enjoys them.
3. Kue Kastengel (Dutch-Indonesian Cheese Tarts)
Sweet flavors meet savory notes perfectly in these unique tarts. Try this recipe if you enjoy rich cheese within your desserts.
You can bake around 45 tarts in just 40 minutes. Edam cheese provides the optimal flavor profile here.
United States residents might substitute Gouda or Parmesan if Edam is unavailable. The result is always a universally loved cheesy sweet.
4. Pinda Koeken Repechage
Enjoy a distinct appearance and superb flavor with these nutty moist treats. They require just seven items and minimal effort.
You must prepare the dough one day early. Actual baking is quick and uncomplicated.
Your pantry likely holds the necessary butter, salt, flour, egg, peanuts, and sugars right now. Start baking immediately!
5. Krakelingen: Sweet Dutch Pretzel Cookies
These pretzel shapes appear difficult but are actually the simplest option here. You only need sugar plus water and puff pastry dough.
Simply flatten the dough before cutting shapes and coating them in sweetener.
Total time is under 80 minutes with most of that spent chilling. Novice bakers cannot fail with this recipe.
6. Dutch Speculaas Cookies
Many recognize these treats since commercial brands add them to festive tins. The crisp texture and warm spices stay consistent regardless of whether you use a decorative rolling pin.
However, using carved tools makes them look as stunning as they taste. They usually vanish too quickly for anyone to stare at them anyway.
7. Arnhemse Meisjes
Dutch bakers excel at creating incredibly crunchy thin wafers. These sugar dusted treats offer complex tangy sweetness despite using just five components.
You simply dress puff pastry squares with cardamom, cinnamon, lime zest, and vanilla sugar.
That contrast creates a truly unique flavor profile. I adore them and expect you will also.
8. Traditional Dutch Pepernoten
Do not let the strange appearance fool you because the taste is fantastic. Expect a chewy soft texture rich with aniseed and spices.
Honey and pancake syrup add great sweetness. The profile resembles TaaiTaai but feels slightly milder.
9. TaaiTaai: Traditional Dutch Holiday Chewy Honey Spice Cookie
Holiday celebrations in Germany and the Netherlands often feature these traditional staples. They stand out from crunchy alternatives by offering a thin yet chewy consistency.
The ingredient list is long but preparation remains simple. Just remember to prepare your dough a full day early.
The dark rich flavor evokes licorice mixed with molasses and sugar cookies.
10. Kletskoppen: Dutch Almond Lace Cookies / Florentines
You can simply call these Florentines if the Dutch name proves too difficult. Locals understand either name for these fabulous treats.
They are incredibly crispy and thin like chips. The flavor profile is pure nutty caramel cookie with cinnamon notes.
Nothing else compares if you crave serious crunch.
