National Dish Netherlands: Kinderdijkse Kruidkoek (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Kinderdijkse Kruidkoek, a fragrant Dutch spice cake that carries all the warmth of a cosy afternoon at home. Rich with honey and a heady blend of mixed spices, this regional treat from the Kinderdijk area has been passed down through generations. Served in soft, moist slices alongside a steaming cup of tea or coffee, it brings a slice of Dutch gezelligheid straight to your table.
About Kinderdijkse Kruidkoek
Kinderdijkse Kruidkoek is far more than a simple dessert — it is a genuine symbol of Dutch culture. This aromatic spice cake stands out thanks to its distinctive blend of spices, which lend it a character all of its own. Traditionally made from regional ingredients, it has grown over the years into a shared favourite. Served with a cup of tea or coffee, it brings the cosiness of the Netherlands directly to your table.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 250 g flour
- 150 g honey
- 100 ml milk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp mixed spices (e.g. cinnamon, ginger, cloves)
- 1 pinch of salt
- Optional: a few chopped nuts or dried fruit
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for the ingredients for Kinderdijkse Kruidkoek, it is worth choosing good-quality products. Flour, milk and honey can be found in any supermarket, while the special spices are available from a spice shop or the international aisle. Be sure to buy fresh spices, as these make all the difference to the flavour. If you decide to add nuts or dried fruit, choose these in the best quality too.
Preparing the dish
Before you start making the Kinderdijkse Kruidkoek, it is a good idea to prepare all the ingredients. This includes measuring out the quantities and sifting the flour to avoid any lumps. Prepare a baking tin as well, greasing it lightly or lining it with baking paper. This ensures the cake comes out easily once baked.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat the oven to 175 °C and prepare your baking tin.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder, salt and spices.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the honey with the milk until smooth and evenly combined.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix well until you have a smooth batter.
- If desired, add the nuts or dried fruit and fold them through.
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin and spread it out evenly.
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 40–45 minutes, until golden brown and a skewer comes out clean.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Kinderdijkse Kruidkoek is easy to make gluten-free or lactose-free. Simply swap the wheat flour for a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. For the lactose-free version, use a plant-based milk alternative such as almond or oat milk. These adjustments do not affect the flavour or texture of the cake, so you can still enjoy this delicious recipe just like a classic Ontbijtkoek.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
If you would like to make a vegan version of Kinderdijkse Kruidkoek, you can replace the honey with sugar syrup or maple syrup. Eggs are not needed in this recipe either, so you can use a plant-based binder such as apple sauce or mashed banana. Take care to check the spices for any animal-derived ingredients too. That way you can be sure your cake fits in fully with your dietary needs.
More tips and tricks
To get the most out of your Kinderdijkse Kruidkoek, it pays to grind the spices fresh for an intense aroma. After baking, let the cake cool completely before serving so the flavours have time to develop. Wrapping it tightly also helps to keep it fresh, meaning you can enjoy the cake several days later. Experiment with different spices, or add chocolate chips for a special twist much like in a piece of Gemberkoek.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Kinderdijkse Kruidkoek is wonderfully adaptable. You can vary the spices to suit your own taste, depending on whether you want a more intense flavour experience. The sweetness can also be adjusted through your choice of sweetener and how much you use. Consider adding extra cinnamon or nutmeg to fine-tune the flavour. This flexibility makes the recipe an excellent option for all sorts of tastes and preferences.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have certain ingredients to hand, there is no need to worry! The honey, for example, can be replaced with other liquid sweeteners such as agave syrup or coconut blossom sugar. If you have no baking powder, you can use bicarbonate of soda instead, but do not forget to include the corresponding acid. A plant-based milk can also stand in whenever you need an alternative liquid. Substitutions like these still deliver fantastic results.
Drink pairing ideas
Kinderdijkse Kruidkoek goes beautifully with a range of drinks. A cup of black tea or coffee is a classic choice, as they complement the flavours of the cake perfectly. For a more refreshing option, a tart, fruity herbal tea or a flavoured water harmonises wonderfully with the spices in the cake. If you fancy something more festive, a glass of mulled wine or a warm spiced apple drink also pairs well with this treat.
Serving and presentation ideas
The presentation of Kinderdijkse Kruidkoek can be kept simple yet elegant. Serve the cake on a pretty plate and garnish it with fresh fruit or a dusting of icing sugar. A small bowl of cream or a vegan alternative can add an appealing accent too. Be sure to cut the cake into slices before presenting it, to show off the lovely texture and moist crumb, just as you might with a slice of Groninger Koek.
A bit of history
The story of Kinderdijkse Kruidkoek reaches deep into Dutch tradition. This recipe has been preserved across generations and forms part of the cultural heritage of the Kinderdijk region. The spices used in this cake are not only important for the flavour — they are also part of the history of Dutch cuisine, in which spices played a significant role, especially during the trading era. The cake’s enduring popularity shows just how closely Dutch cuisine is woven into the history and traditions of the country.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Kinderdijkse Kruidkoek
Kinderdijkse Kruidkoek is a delicious and versatile treat that suits Dutch cosiness perfectly. With its wealth of spices and its simple preparation, this cake is ideal for any occasion. Whether for a sociable get-together or a relaxed afternoon, it is always a hit. Give the recipe a try and bring a little piece of the Netherlands into your own kitchen!
