National Dish Netherlands: Boerenmeisjes (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Boerenmeisjes, a charming little treat from the heart of the Dutch countryside! These soft, brandy-soaked dried fruits are steeped with sugar and a whisper of warm spice until every bite is sweet, boozy and utterly moreish. Simple to make and impossible to resist, they bring a taste of traditional Dutch hospitality to the table — perfect for rounding off a meal or serving alongside coffee when friends drop by.
About Boerenmeisjes
Boerenmeisjes are a traditional Dutch delicacy made from dried fruit steeped in spirits. These delightful little snacks are infused with a mixture of brandy and sugar, which gives them a sweet, aromatic warmth. Their origins lie in the rural corners of the Netherlands, where they were treasured as a simple yet flavourful treat. Today, Boerenmeisjes remain a popular favourite in Dutch homes and cafés alike, delighting locals and visitors in equal measure. They make a lovely partner to their counterpart, Boerenjongens, the brandied-raisin version of the same idea.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g dried plums (prunes)
- 50 ml brandy or rum
- 50 g brown sugar
- 1 pinch of cinnamon
Shopping for the ingredients
You need only a handful of ingredients to make Boerenmeisjes, and all of them are easy to find in any supermarket. Dried plums are usually stocked in the fruit and vegetable aisle, while the brandy and brown sugar can be found in the spirits and baking sections respectively. When buying the fruit, look for plums with no added sugar or preservatives to keep the flavour authentic. If you fancy a more distinctive result, you could choose an aged or spiced spirit to bring an extra layer of flavour to the dish.
Preparing the dish
Getting Boerenmeisjes ready is quick and straightforward. First, give the dried plums a thorough rinse to remove any residue. Next, combine the plums in a bowl with the brandy and brown sugar, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Leave the mixture to steep for at least an hour so the fruit can drink in the flavours and soften beautifully.
Step-by-step instructions
- Combine the dried plums in a bowl with the brandy and sugar.
- Leave the mixture to steep for at least one hour.
- Lift the plums from the bowl and spoon a little of the soaking syrup into the centre of each one.
- Fold the plums back together and arrange them in a serving dish.
- Dust with a pinch of cinnamon and serve chilled.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Boerenmeisjes are naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, which makes them a wonderful choice for anyone with certain food intolerances. Dried plums contain no wheat products, and both the brandy and the sugar are gluten-free as well. To be sure there is no lactose in the recipe, simply check that you are using only these core ingredients. That way, even guests with specific dietary needs can enjoy this delicious treat without a second thought.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For vegans, Boerenmeisjes are an excellent option since the ingredients are entirely plant-based. Do take care to use a vegan brandy or rum, as some spirits are clarified with animal-derived finings. You can also experiment by swapping the sugar for agave syrup or another plant-based sweetener. This keeps the dish completely vegan while losing none of its indulgent charm.
More tips and tricks
To make your Boerenmeisjes even more luxurious, try enriching the steeping mixture with extra spices such as vanilla or nutmeg. These small touches can give the dish a surprising flavour boost. The serving temperature matters too — serve the fruit well chilled to deepen its sweet, mellow aromas. And don’t forget to portion the treats into small servings so they can be presented as elegant little after-dinner bites.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The recipe for Boerenmeisjes is easily tailored to personal preference. If you prefer a less sugary result, simply reduce the amount of sugar. You can also try different spirits to create interesting flavour notes, such as cognac or whisky. Beyond that, nuts or other dried fruits can be folded into the mix to add variety in both texture and taste, much as you might tinker with a slice of Appeltaart to suit the season.
Ingredient substitutions
If you don’t have dried plums to hand, you can swap them for dried apricots or figs. These alternatives offer the same sweet, fruity character that pairs so beautifully with the brandy. The sugar can also be replaced with natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup if you prefer a less refined sweetness. Experiment with different combinations to create your own favourite version!
Drink pairing ideas
To round off the Boerenmeisjes experience, a number of drinks pair wonderfully with them. A mellow red wine or a crisp white wine can support the sweet flavours of the steeped fruit beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, a glass of fruit juice or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon would be ideal. For something more indulgent, the creamy Dutch liqueur Advocaat makes a decadent companion. These combinations create a harmonious finish and underline the traditional character of this Dutch treat.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation plays an important part when serving Boerenmeisjes. Arrange the treats in a pretty bowl or on a decorative plate to make them look their best. Garnished with fresh mint leaves or a dusting of cinnamon, the dish instantly becomes more inviting. Remember to offer the snacks in small portions to create a relaxed, sociable atmosphere when entertaining guests — they sit beautifully on a dessert spread alongside Stroopwafels.
A bit of history
Boerenmeisjes have a long history in Dutch cuisine. They were originally prepared by farmers as simple snacks to provide energy through long working days. The combination of dried fruit and alcohol was both practical and delicious. Over the years the recipe has evolved, and today it is a firm fixture of traditional Dutch gastronomy. The treat is a symbol of the warm hospitality of the Netherlands and is often served at celebrations and festivities.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Boerenmeisjes
Boerenmeisjes are a unique Dutch snack that brings together sweet and warming flavours. The combination of dried plums, brandy and sugar makes them an unforgettable treat. Whether you enjoy them as part of a feast or simply as a snack, they bring a little piece of Dutch culture to your table. Experiment with different variations and presentation styles to make your own experience with this delicious dish truly your own!
