National Dish Netherlands: Ginger Cake (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Gemberkoek, the warmly spiced Dutch ginger cake that fills the kitchen with the cosy aromas of ginger, cinnamon and cloves. Dense, moist and gently sweet, it is the kind of bake that begs to be sliced and served with a steaming cup of tea. Easy to put together and endlessly comforting, this traditional loaf is a treat for festive tables and quiet afternoons alike. Let its flavours work their gentle magic.
About Ginger Cake
Gemberkoek is a delicious, deeply traditional Dutch spice cake, celebrated for its warming flavour and fragrant character. This homely bake is built around ginger and a handful of supporting spices that give it its unmistakable note. It is often served at festive occasions or enjoyed simply as a sweet snack alongside a cup of tea. Gemberkoek is not only tasty but also wonderfully easy to make — a genuine treat for all the senses.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 150 g honey or molasses
- 100 g brown sugar
- 250 g flour (wholemeal or gluten-free if you prefer)
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 egg (or a plant-based egg substitute)
Shopping for the ingredients
The ingredients for Gemberkoek are easy to find in most supermarkets. When it comes to spices such as ginger, cinnamon and cloves, it is worth seeking out good-quality products, as they shape the cake’s aroma considerably. Honey or molasses is equally important for the sweetness and the texture of the bake. If you have particular dietary needs, such as gluten-free or vegan, you will also find suitable alternatives in organic or international food shops.
Preparing the dish
Before you begin, make sure all your ingredients are measured out and ready to go. A clean, well-organised work surface makes the whole process far easier. It is also important to preheat the oven to 170°C so the cake bakes through evenly. Be sure to grease your cake tin or line it with baking paper to stop the loaf from sticking.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a bowl, combine the honey and brown sugar and stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, mix the dry ingredients — flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, bicarbonate of soda and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the honey and sugar mixture a little at a time, stirring well.
- Add the egg and stir thoroughly until you have a smooth, even batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin and spread it out evenly.
- Bake the Gemberkoek for around 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and a wooden skewer comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely before serving.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Making Gemberkoek gluten-free is straightforward — simply use a gluten-free flour. Choose one that is well suited to baking, such as a dedicated gluten-free flour blend. For a lactose-free version, reach for plant-based alternatives such as almond milk or soya yoghurt. These swaps do nothing to dull the flavour of the cake and make it enjoyable for far more people.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan version of Gemberkoek, you can replace the egg with a plant-based option such as apple sauce or flaxseed. One tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with three tablespoons of water makes an efficient egg substitute. You should also make sure to swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. This keeps the cake just as delicious while making it suitable for vegans.
More tips and tricks
If you would like to dress up your Gemberkoek, you can add chopped nuts or dried fruit such as raisins or apricots alongside the classic spices. These extras lend the cake additional texture and flavour. Gemberkoek also freezes beautifully, so you always have a slice on hand for unexpected visitors or a sudden craving for something sweet. Storing it well in an airtight tin keeps the cake fresh, much like a slice of Ontbijtkoek.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The recipe for Gemberkoek is highly adaptable and leaves plenty of room for your personal touch. You can vary the spices to suit your palate, for instance — those who like it bolder can add more ginger or experiment with other aromatics such as cardamom or lemon zest. The texture of the cake can also be adjusted by adding a little more or less liquid. Be bold, try something new, and create a Gemberkoek that is entirely your own.
Ingredient substitutions
Several ingredients in this recipe can be swapped out easily to match your taste or dietary needs. Instead of brown sugar, you could use coconut sugar for a slightly different kind of sweetness. There are many gluten-free flour options on the market, making the recipe pleasingly versatile. As for the sweeteners, alternatives such as coconut nectar or sugar substitutes are well worth considering if you want to cut down on sugar, just as you might in a Kruidkoek.
Drink pairing ideas
Gemberkoek pairs wonderfully with a range of drinks. A cup of tea — particularly ginger tea or chai — goes beautifully with this spice cake and rounds out its aroma perfectly. Coffee is another good choice, especially an espresso or a mild filter brew. If you fancy something fruitier, a glass of fresh fruit juice or a fruit compote makes a lovely accompaniment, much as it would beside a slice of Peperkoek.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation plays an important part in getting the most from your Gemberkoek. For an attractive serving, cut the cake into cubes and arrange them on a handsome cake stand. Finish the Gemberkoek with a light dusting of icing sugar or a drizzle of fruit sauce to give it an appealing look. Small plates and cups that suit the theme lift the whole display and turn the cake into a real centrepiece.
A bit of history
Gemberkoek has its roots in the Netherlands, where spiced bakes have played an important role for centuries. This cake was originally enjoyed during the winter months and especially at festive occasions. Ginger was a much-loved spice that lent not only flavour but also preserving qualities. The tradition of baking Gemberkoek lives on to this day, and many families have developed their own recipes handed down across the generations — a proud thread within Dutch cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Ginger Cake
Gemberkoek is a truly delicious Dutch spice cake that comes together with ease and suits all kinds of occasions. With its combination of ginger and other aromatic spices, it delights every palate. Whether served as a sweet snack with a cup of tea or as a festive dessert, Gemberkoek is always a hit. Let this traditional recipe inspire you and discover the many possibilities this cake has to offer.
