If you visit the Netherlands, there’s one snack you’ll see absolutely everywhere:
Stroopwafels.
You’ll find them:
- At Dutch markets
- In supermarkets
- At cafés
- In souvenir shops
- Even at airports
But what exactly is a stroopwafel?
Is it a waffle?
A cookie?
A biscuit?
Honestly… it’s kind of all three.
And once you try a freshly made one in the Netherlands, supermarket versions will never taste the same again.
- What is a Stroopwafel?
- Fresh Stroopwafels Are Completely Different
- Where to Eat Fresh Stroopwafels in Amsterdam
- Fancy Stroopwafels Are Popular Too
- Stroopwafels as Dutch Souvenirs
- The Dutch Way to Eat Stroopwafels
- Try a Stroopwafel Workshop in Amsterdam
- Dutch Food Tours in Amsterdam
- More Dutch Food & Travel Guides
- Final Thoughts: Stroopwafels Are More Than Just Cookies
What is a Stroopwafel?
A stroopwafel is a traditional Dutch sweet made from:
- Two thin waffle layers
- Filled with warm caramel syrup (“stroop”)
The word literally means:
- “Stroop” = syrup
- “Wafel” = waffle
The texture is one of the best parts.
The outside is slightly crispy and chewy, while the inside is soft, sweet, and filled with caramel-like syrup flavored with cinnamon.
It’s simple, but dangerously addictive.
Fresh Stroopwafels Are Completely Different
Freshly baked stroopwafels are honestly on another level.
At Dutch street markets, you can watch vendors:
- Press fresh waffle dough
- Slice it open
- Spread warm syrup inside
The smell alone is incredible.
When the stroopwafel is still warm, the syrup becomes gooey and melts perfectly between the thin waffle layers.
If you visit the Netherlands, trying one fresh from the market is almost mandatory.
Where to Eat Fresh Stroopwafels in Amsterdam
One of the best places to try fresh stroopwafels is Amsterdam’s famous market:
Albert Cuyp Market
This market is packed with Dutch street food, including giant freshly baked stroopwafels.
Fancy Stroopwafels Are Popular Too
In recent years, specialty stroopwafel shops have become very popular on Instagram.
You can now find stroopwafels covered with:
- Chocolate
- Marshmallows
- Sprinkles
- Nuts
They look amazing — but they can get surprisingly expensive.
Still, they make fun souvenirs or gifts.
Stroopwafels as Dutch Souvenirs
Stroopwafels originally came from Gouda in the Netherlands around the late 18th century.
Today, supermarkets sell countless varieties, including:
- Classic caramel
- Chocolate
- Organic
- Mini versions
- Giant versions
They’re one of the easiest Dutch souvenirs to bring home because they travel well and almost everyone likes them.
The Dutch Way to Eat Stroopwafels
Dutch people often place a stroopwafel on top of a hot coffee or tea.
The steam gently warms the waffle and softens the syrup inside.
It sounds simple, but it genuinely makes them taste better.
Perfect for:
- Coffee breaks
- Dessert
- Rainy Dutch afternoons
Try a Stroopwafel Workshop in Amsterdam
If you want more than just eating one, you can also join a stroopwafel-making workshop in Amsterdam.
You’ll learn:
- How the dough is made
- How the syrup is prepared
- How to press and fill the waffles yourself
Fresh homemade stroopwafels taste incredible.
▶︎ Search stroopwafel workshops in Amsterdam >>
Dutch Food Tours in Amsterdam
If you enjoy Dutch snacks and street food, food tours are also a fun way to discover local treats beyond stroopwafels.
Many tours include:
- Stroopwafels
- Dutch cheese
- Bitterballen
- Local markets
More Dutch Food & Travel Guides
Final Thoughts: Stroopwafels Are More Than Just Cookies
Stroopwafels may look simple, but they’ve become one of the most iconic Dutch foods for a reason.
Whether you try:
- A fresh market stroopwafel
- A fancy chocolate-covered version
- Or a homemade one from a workshop
…it’s one of those Dutch experiences that people remember long after their trip.
And honestly?
Once you try a warm fresh stroopwafel in the Netherlands, regular packaged ones will never feel quite the same again.