Cheese, meat, potatoes, and seasonal produce form the basis of Dutch cuisine. While Dutch food is sometimes seen as “boring,” this reputation is undeserved! In fact, the Netherlands have a variety of culinary delights to offer and there are plenty of delicious Dutch recipes to enjoy. From fried finger-foods to hearty stews to delicious desserts, there is something for everyone! We’ve rounded up a list of our favorite Dutch recipes so that you can explore this oft-misunderstood cuisine right from the comfort of your own kitchen! Ready to cook some delicious Dutch food? Check out our picks below!
#1 Boterkoek (Dutch Butter Cake)
Halfway between a cake and a cookie, this tender, sweet, and buttery cake is melt-in-your-mouth delicious. One of our very favorite Dutch recipes, it comes together in just 35 minutes and requires just 5 ingredients that you probably already have at home! It’s perfect for serving during the holidays or “just because.” Want to learn how to make this buttery Dutch cake at home?
#2 Stamppot
Stamppot is a classic Dutch recipe. This version calls for a combination of smoked sausage, sautéed kale, onions, garlic, mashed potatoes, scallions, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s warm and comforting – perfect for cold nights or those days when you just need a little pick-me-up in a bowl! Stamppot is generally considered to be the national dish of The Netherlands, so if you’re looking for a taste of Dutch deliciousness, this is it!
#3 Bitterballen (Dutch Beef Croquettes)
A popular Dutch snack, these croquettes are made with beef, butter, flour, and onion. Once the mixture is made, the “dough” is shaped into balls and fried to crispy perfection. They’re often served alongside beer and many locals enjoy dipping theirs in mustard. Want to learn how to make this Dutch favorite at home?
#4 Stroopwafels
It wouldn’t be a list of our favorite Dutch recipes without Stroopwafels! Crunchy, caramel-y, and delicious, prepackaged stroopwafels are popular all around the world. But trust us — nothing compares to a freshly made batch. Warm, gooey, and bursting with sweetness, it is absolutely worth the effort to make these beloved Dutch treats at home. Ready to learn how to make your own stroopwafels?
#5 Suikerbrood (Dutch Sugar Bread)
Filled with pockets of melted sugar and topped with crunchy sugar pearls, this is no ordinary bread. Even the dough is flavored with cinnamon and ginger! Warm, comforting, sweet, and delicious, this is the perfect wintertime bread to bake at home. Want to learn how to make this Dutch delight in your own kitchen?
#6 Oliebollen (Dutch Doughnuts)
Often enjoyed on New Year’s Eve, these traditional Dutch doughnuts are made from enriched yeast dough and deep-fried to crispy, oily perfection. They can made plain or with raisins, currants, or diced apples. While they are almost always dusted with icing sugar, some bakers go a step further and fill them with whipped cream or jam after frying. Want to learn how to make your own batch at home?
#7 Dutch Letters
These Dutch cookies are shaped like the letter “S” and filled with almond paste. Super flaky, buttery, and topped with crunchy sugar, they’re the perfect treat for when you want something sweet and satisfying! We highly recommend trying this Dutch recipe in your own kitchen. Bonus? It's a great baking activity to do with kids!
#8 Hagelslag
This popular breakfast is deceptively simple: Dutch chocolate sprinkles are spread over freshly sliced banana and served on a piece of buttered bread. This is a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth in the morning and works well if you’re looking for a recipe to make with kids. Ready to learn how to make this popular treat from the Netherlands?
#9 Hachee (Dutch Beef and Onion Stew)
To make this classic Dutch dish, beef is slow-cooked until juicy and tender with butter, cloves, and bay leaves. Chopped onions add aromatic sweetness while vinegar offers a slight tang. Hearty and comforting, this traditional Dutch stew makes a great wintertime meal. Ready to learn how to make this satisfying meal in your own kitchen?
#10 Tijgerbolletjes (Dutch Tiger Bread)
These rolls are soft on the inside and feature a uniquely crispy crust on the top, sometimes said to resemble a tiger’s stripe pattern. The secret? A rice flour topping! Want to learn how to bake this unique Dutch bread in your own kitchen?
Bonus!
Savory Dutch Pancakes
Thin, crepe-like pancakes are topped with spek (smoked prosciutto) and cheese for a savory, satisfying breakfast. They come together in just 15 minutes and are a great way to liven up your morning routine, although they’re also great for lunch or dinner! Want to learn how to make this unique Dutch recipe in your own kitchen?