Authentic Dutch Speculaas Cookies

Name: Authentic Dutch Speculaas Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 105 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Cuisine: Dutch
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 1/4 tsp salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 tbsp milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract

105 min 24 cookies Medium

All Recipes

Enjoy the warm, spiced goodness of traditional Dutch speculaas cookies, perfect for the holiday season.

Prep

30 min

Cook

15 min

Total

105 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Speculaas cookies are a cherished part of Dutch culinary tradition, especially during the holiday season. These spiced cookies are known for their aromatic blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger, offering a delightful warming flavour that's perfect for cool weather. Our version stays true to the authentic Dutch recipe, ensuring that each bite delivers the classic taste and texture that has made speculaas a favourite for generations. These cookies are ideal for anyone looking to explore traditional European baking or add a unique treat to their holiday cookie repertoire.

Instructions

Mix dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.

Pro tip: Sift the dry ingredients to avoid clumps.

Cream butter and sugar

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.

Pro tip: Ensure butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.

Combine wet ingredients

Add the milk and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until combined.

Form the dough

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.

Chill the dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Pro tip: Chilling helps the dough firm up for easier rolling.

Preheat and prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roll and cut cookies

Roll out the dough to about 5 mm (1/4 inch) thick on a lightly floured surface. Cut into desired shapes.

Pro tip: Use a cookie cutter for consistent shapes.

Bake the cookies

Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges.

Pro tip: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even baking.

Cool and store

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro tip: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh spices for the best flavour.
Chill the dough for easier handling and shaping.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are speculaas cookies?

Speculaas cookies are traditional Dutch spiced cookies, often enjoyed during the holiday season.

What spices are in speculaas?

Speculaas typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.

How long can speculaas cookies be stored?

Speculaas cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Can speculaas dough be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze speculaas dough for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Where do speculaas cookies originate?

Speculaas cookies originate from the Netherlands and are a popular treat during the holiday season.

What is the texture of speculaas cookies?

Speculaas cookies are typically crisp and crunchy, with a rich, spiced flavour.

Serving Suggestions

Serve speculaas cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a satisfying treat. They pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a slice of aged cheese for a more sophisticated twist. Speculaas can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks, making them a convenient option for holiday gatherings or gifting. The flavours tend to develop and deepen over time, so they're just as delicious days after baking.

Nutrition per serving

110

Calories

Protein

Fat

14g

Carbs

More Cookie Recipes

Traditional Dutch Cookies with Almonds

Savour the taste of the Netherlands with these traditional Dutch cookies, featuring a delightful almond flavour and crisp texture.

Easy62 min

See the recipe

Classic Speculoos Cookies

Enjoy the warm, spiced flavour of traditional Speculoos cookies, a beloved treat with origins in Belgium and France.

Medium62 min

See the recipe

Gingerbread Men Cookies

Delightful gingerbread men cookies with a spiced aroma, perfect for festive occasions.

Medium100 min

See the recipe

Melt In Your Mouth Shortbread Cookies

Delightfully tender shortbread cookies that truly melt in your mouth. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are buttery, crumbly, and simply irresistible.

Easy87 min

See the recipe

Classic Chanukah Cookies for the Festival of Lights

Celebrate Chanukah with these delightful sugar cookies, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the Festival of Lights.

Easy60 min

See the recipe

Frosted Shortbread Holiday Cookies

Delight in these buttery, melt-in-your-mouth frosted shortbread holiday cookies, perfect for festive gatherings.

Easy65 min

See the recipe

Kitchen & BBQ gear

What we use for recipes like this

See the whole store

Kitchen Appliances · Blenders

Starfrit 1.5L Glass Blender, 450W, Stainless Steel Blades, 2 Speeds & Pulse

$49.99

Kitchen Organisation · Drawer Organisers

Lifewit Cooking Utensil Drawer Organizer, Expandable from 11 to 18 inches, Adjustable Cutlery Silverware Tray, Utensil Crock for Flatware Spatula, Kitchen Tools Gadgets Storage Divider, Black

$17.99

Pit Boss Grills

BBQ Pit Kit

$79.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.