Traditional Dutch Speculaas Cookies with Almonds
These delightful Dutch Speculaas cookies are a cherished treat, especially during the festive season around Saint Nicolas. Originating from the community cookbook 'Cooking on Clogs,' this recipe blends a rich tradition with a touch of nostalgia, ideal for those yearning for authentic Dutch flavors. Unlike generic spice mixes labeled as 'speculaas kruiden,' this recipe encourages you to craft your own unique spice blend, ensuring each bite is filled with the warming aromas of cinnamon, cardamom, and more. The addition of ground almonds lends a lovely texture and flavor, embodying the comforting essence of Dutch baking. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or shared at gatherings, these cookies capture the spirit of the Netherlands year-round.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
160 g (softened)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (N/A)
Egg
1 (N/A)
Flour
400 g (N/A)
Brown Sugar
300 g (N/A)
Ground Almonds
50 g (N/A)
Milk
4-6 tablespoons (for dough and glaze)
Ground Cinnamon
1 teaspoon (N/A)
Cardamom
1/2 teaspoon (N/A)
Mace
1/2 teaspoon (N/A)
Ground Cloves
1/2 teaspoon (N/A)
Milk
for glaze (N/A)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2
Add in the salt, ground almonds, egg, and 3 tablespoons of milk. Mix until fully combined.
3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and spices (ground cinnamon, cardamom, mace, and cloves). Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing to form a stiff dough.
4
If the dough is too dry, slowly add the remaining milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together but is not sticky.
5
Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
6
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
7
Use a wooden Speculaas mold or cookie cutters to create decorative shapes. Place the cookies onto a greased baking tray.
8
Brush the tops lightly with milk to achieve a beautiful glaze during baking.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just golden brown. Remove and allow to cool on a wire rack.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Traditional Dutch Speculaas Cookies?
They are cherished Dutch treats, traditionally served during the festive season around Saint Nicolas, known for their rich spice blend and ground almonds.
What is the origin of this Speculaas recipe?
This specific recipe originates from the community cookbook titled 'Cooking on Clogs.'
What spices are used to make the speculaas spice blend?
The blend consists of ground cinnamon, cardamom, mace, and ground cloves.
How much butter is required for the dough?
The recipe calls for 160 grams of softened butter.
How much brown sugar is needed?
You will need 300 grams of brown sugar.
What is the purpose of adding ground almonds?
Ground almonds lend a lovely texture and flavor, embodying the comforting essence of Dutch baking.
How much flour is used in this recipe?
The recipe requires 400 grams of flour.
How many eggs are used in the dough?
One egg is used in the dough mixture.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 200°C or 400°F.
How long should the dough be refrigerated?
The dough should be wrapped in cling film and refrigerated for 30 minutes to firm up.
How thick should the speculaas dough be rolled out?
Roll out the dough to a thickness of approximately 1/4 inch.
What tools can be used to shape the cookies?
You can use a traditional wooden Speculaas mold or standard cookie cutters to create decorative shapes.
How long do the cookies need to bake?
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes.
How can I tell when the Speculaas cookies are finished baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are just golden brown.
What should I do if the dough is too dry?
If the dough is too dry, slowly add remaining milk one tablespoon at a time until it holds together but is not sticky.
How much ground cinnamon is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
What amount of cardamom is required?
You should use 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom.
How much mace is included in the spice mix?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of mace.
How much ground cloves are needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves.
What is the first step in the mixing process?
The first step is to cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
How much milk is used for the dough and glaze?
A total of 4 to 6 tablespoons of milk are used for the dough and brushing the tops.
What type of sugar is best for this recipe?
Brown sugar is used to provide the traditional flavor and color.
Is salt used in these cookies?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of salt is added to the mixture.
How should the cookies be cooled?
Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.
What gives the cookies a beautiful glaze?
Brushing the tops lightly with milk before baking creates a beautiful glaze.
Can I enjoy these cookies outside of the holiday season?
Yes, while traditional for Saint Nicolas, they can be captured and enjoyed year-round.
What is the specific quantity of ground almonds?
The recipe specifies 50 grams of ground almonds.
Should the flour be mixed with the spices separately?
Yes, whisk together the flour and spices in a separate bowl before gradually adding them to the wet ingredients.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 12 ingredients in total, including the various spices and milk for glazing.
What is the best way to serve these cookies?
They are best enjoyed with a cup of tea or shared at festive gatherings.