What Are Stroopwafels?
Stroopwafels are one of the most underrated cookies in the world. Native to The Netherlands, the treat is made with two thin, crispy waffles and a syrup filling in between, which makes sense considering the word "stroopwafel" literally means "syrup waffle" in Dutch. The waffle component of the stroopwafel tastes sweet and buttery with a hint of cinnamon. The syrup is traditionally caramel flavored, but can also come in other flavors like chocolate, honey, or maple.
Stroopwafels were first made in the Dutch city of Gouda (yes, like the cheese) in the late 1800s. They were originally designed to fit perfectly on top of a piping hot cup of coffee or tea. By leaving the cookie on your coffee cup for a minute or two, the stroopwafel softens and becomes a nice snack to enjoy with your morning coffee.
In The Netherlands, stroopwafels are commonly sold on the streets, markets, and grocery stores. When served fresh, they tend to still be warm and gooey, so you don't even have to be a coffee drinker to indulge in these sweet treats.
Stroopwafels In America
While you won't find stroopwafels being sold practically everywhere in the United States like you would in The Netherlands, they are still available here. The most common stroopwafel brand you'll find in the United States is Daelman's, which you can find at places like Target, Walmart, and World Market. Trader Joe's also sells their own brand of stroopwafels, which are also pretty tasty.
Stroopwafel McFlurry
Though stroopwafels aren't super popular in America, that might change soon thanks to McDonald's. According to Business Insider, the fast food restaurant will be debuting a Stroopwafel McFlurry, along with a few other international favorites, across the U.S. in summer 2019. The dessert will be made with vanilla soft serve, stroopwafel bits, and caramel sauce. Yum!
How To Make Stroopwafels
If you don't feel like making a trip to Amsterdam for freshly made stroopwafels, you can always try your hand at making them at home. Food Network provides a great recipe that's pretty true to how you would find stroopwafels in The Netherlands. Keep in mind, in order to make stroopwafels at home, you will need access to a waffle cone iron.
If you don't want to go through all the trouble of making homemade stroopwafels, you can also make a ton of desserts featuring store bought stroopwafels. Here are some of our favorites! Note: some of these recipes may need to be translated from Dutch to English.
