Dutch Speculaas Cookies
Are you looking for a delicious and traditional holiday treat? Look no further because I have the perfect recipe for you – Speculaas! Originating from the Netherlands, Speculaas is a spiced shortcrust biscuit that is loved by people of all ages. With its aromatic blend of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger, Speculaas offers a delightful taste and enticing aroma that truly embodies the holiday spirit. Whether you want to enjoy it on its own, dip it in your favorite hot beverage, or use it as a base for desserts like cheesecakes and pies, Speculaas is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, let's gather our ingredients and get ready to create a batch of homemade Speculaas that will impress everyone around you!
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 190g butter, at room temperature
- 225g light brown sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- 45ml buttermilk, at room temperature
- 400g flour
- 3 ½ tbsp speculaas spices
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
Tools:
Speculaas mold
Additional:
- Cornstarch, for dusting the speculaas mold.
Speculaas spices in English are typically referred to as "speculaas spices" or "Dutch spice blend." However, the specific ingredients that make up the speculaas spice blend can vary, but they usually include a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, cardamom, white pepper, and sometimes anise.
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and light brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the salt and buttermilk to the butter mixture and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, speculaas spices, and baking soda.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Once the dough is formed, divide it into two equal portions and shape each portion into a disc. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. I left it in the refrigerator for two days to let the flavors infuse into the dough.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Liberally dust the speculaas mold with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
- Take one portion of the chilled dough and press it firmly into the speculaas mold, filling all the crevices. Use a knife to trim any excess dough.
- Gently tap the mold on the counter to release the shaped dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this step with the remaining dough.
- Bake the speculaas in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges.
- Once baked, remove the speculaas from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Enjoy your homemade speculaas biscuits with a cup of tea or coffee, or use them as a delicious addition to your holiday desserts!
- The cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
