Stroopkoekjes

Introduction to Stroopkoekjes

Stroopkoekjes, a delightful Dutch treat, have been cherished for generations. Traditionally, these cookies combine rich buttery flavors with a sweet syrup filling, drawing parallels to the well-known stroopwafels. Originating from the Netherlands, stroopkoekjes are typically enjoyed with a hot beverage, making them a perfect choice for coffee or tea breaks. Over the years, these cookies have made their way into various households, becoming a staple during festive seasons and a fond memory of familial gatherings.

Ingredients

To create these scrumptious cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• Butter - 200g, softened
• Sugar - 150g
• Vanilla extract - 1 tablespoon
• All-purpose flour - 300g
• Baking powder - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - a pinch
• Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
• Golden syrup (stroop) - 100g

Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, ensure that all your ingredients are pre-measured and your kitchen space is organized. The preparation mainly involves making the dough and the syrup filling.

Making the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer or 6-7 minutes by hand.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well incorporated.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a soft dough forms.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the dough to firm up, making it easier to handle during the shaping process.

Preparing the Syrup Filling

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the golden syrup until it becomes smooth and spreadable. Be cautious to not overheat, as we only need it slightly fluid for easy spreading.
2. Set aside to cool slightly before using.

Cooking Process

Now that the dough is ready and the syrup is prepared, let's get started with baking these exquisite stroopkoekjes. Make sure to have your cooking timer handy to keep track of the baking time.

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 5mm thickness.
3. Use a cookie cutter to cut the dough into your desired shape, typically round or rectangular in the size of traditional Dutch cookies.
4. Place the dough cutouts onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced adequately to prevent sticking during baking.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Adjust cooking time if necessary, as oven temperatures may vary.
6. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
7. Once the cookies are cool enough to handle, spread a layer of the prepared syrup onto the flat side of a cookie and sandwich with another, pressing lightly to ensure they stick together.

Enjoying Stroopkoekjes

Stroopkoekjes are best enjoyed fresh, with a cup of coffee or tea. The combination of the crispy baked exterior and the gooey, sweet syrupey interior provides a satisfying taste and texture experience. They can be kept in an airtight container for up to a week, although their delightful sweetness might not make them last that long.

These cookies also make for perfect gifts during holidays or special occasions. Wrap them in festive paper or place them in decorative tins to share the joy of Dutch tradition with family and friends.