Amazing Dutch Snacks You Must Try in the Netherlands

Traveling to the Netherlands anytime soon? Here is a list of Dutch snacks that must try on your visit.

Poffertjes

The English translation for poffertjes is mini pancakes. traditionally, you eat them with butter and powdered sugar. If I’m feeling extra naughty I’ll eat them with caramel as well! I’m hoping to get a Poffertjes pan so I can make these on my own at home (hoping the Dutchie reads this one).

Spekkoek Pandan

This is a delicious multilayer cake that originates from the Dutch East Indies. In the Netherlands, it goes by the name Spekkoek which translates to bacon in Dutch because of its similar appearance. Original Spekkoek consists of layers in two colors which come from brown and white sugar. There are many Spekkoek flavors like chocolate, banana, and coconut but my favorite is Spekkoek Pandan!

Pandan is a tropical plant that is used in many Southeast Asian dishes and is known for its fragrant smell. It can almost be compared to vanilla and is a plant I am familiar with because of its usage in many Filipino dishes and desserts. 

Spekkoek is very difficult to make and takes lots of patience due to the numerous layers that you must be bake separately. I have my heart set on making this dessert one day, but for now, I’ll settle with buying it from the local Toko.

Stroopwafel

During my first time in the Netherlands, this was the very first Dutch sweet I tried. The Stroopwafel originates from the city of Gouda and goes back to the 19th century.  Whenever I head back to the states I bring bags of these with me because it’s is difficult to find authentic tasting ones. My favorite way to eat them is fresh from the local market. When eating Stroopwafel at home the Dutchie instructed me on the correct way to eat it. You must put the cookie over a piping hot cup of coffee or tea. This way the temperature will melt the caramel, soften the cookie and release more of its flavor.

Bitterballen

A typical Dutch snack, you can find this savory deep-fried, breaded meatball served as bar snacks. Although not the healthiest Bitterballen is absolutely delicious and paired nicely along with a cold beer. You must be careful about immediately taking the first bite because it will absolutely burn your mouth. Although a Dutch bar snack, you may notice that they are eaten at parties and events too.

Kibbeling

It’s hot, it’s crunchy and it is perfection. Kibbeling is a popular Dutch street food that you can find at any fish shop, market, or street stall. It’s very similar to Fish and Chips but to be honest I prefer Kibbeling since it is more flavorful. Order them met (with) fries and the delicious dipping sauce and you’ll be sure to have a happy stomach.

What Dutch Snacks will you be trying?

I’m hoping you will get the chance to try them all on your visit to the Netherlands. If not, you can Stroopwafel and Pandaan at the stores and bring them back home.