National Dish Netherlands: Ontbijtkoek (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Ontbijtkoek, the fragrant Dutch spice loaf that brings a little Amsterdam charm to your breakfast table. Made with rye flour, golden honey and a warming blend of cinnamon, ginger and clove, this gently sweet bread is a beloved morning treat across the Netherlands. Sliced thick and spread with butter, it is the kind of comforting bake that turns an ordinary cup of coffee into a moment worth lingering over.
About Ontbijtkoek
Ontbijtkoek is a traditional Dutch spiced bread served above all at breakfast. It is distinguished by its sweet, mellow character and the unmistakable warmth of a generous spice mix. The loaf has a long history and is most often enjoyed with butter or a little jam. Its moist, tender crumb and distinctive aroma make ontbijtkoek a much-loved snack at any time of day, and a fine example of homely Dutch cuisine.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 250 g rye flour
- 200 g honey or syrup
- 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground clove
- 1 tsp ground aniseed
- 250 ml milk or a plant-based alternative
- 1 pinch of salt
Shopping for the ingredients
The ingredients for ontbijtkoek can be found in any well-stocked supermarket. It is worth choosing fresh spices to draw out the best flavour, and organic brands are often a good pick as they tend to contain fewer additives. Take a look in the baking aisle too, where you may find the special flours you would like to use. Sourcing good-quality honey also makes a noticeable difference to the finished loaf.
Preparing the dish
Before you start baking, it pays to have all your ingredients ready to hand. Measure everything out precisely for the best possible result. Preheating the oven to 175°C is just as important, so the ontbijtkoek bakes through evenly. Prepare a loaf tin by greasing it lightly or lining it with baking paper, and you will be set for a smooth, unhurried bake.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the rye flour, bicarbonate of soda, cinnamon, ginger, clove, aniseed and salt together well.
- In a separate bowl, combine the honey or syrup with the milk and stir until everything has fully dissolved.
- Slowly add the liquid mixture to the dry ingredients and stir into a smooth batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and spread it out evenly.
- Bake the ontbijtkoek for about 45–50 minutes in the preheated oven, until a skewer comes out clean.
- Once baked, let the loaf cool before turning it out of the tin.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free version of ontbijtkoek, the rye flour can be swapped for a blend of gluten-free alternatives such as rice or almond flour. Take care to use gluten-free bicarbonate of soda for the best results. For a lactose-free loaf, simply replace the ordinary milk with a plant-based option such as almond or oat milk. In both cases the characteristic flavour of the ontbijtkoek stays beautifully intact.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
A vegan ontbijtkoek is easy to achieve. Replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep that lovely sweetness, and reach for a plant-based milk in place of dairy. The spices can be adjusted to personal taste to create different aromas. With these small swaps, vegans can enjoy this traditional treat just as much as everyone else — much like a plant-friendly take on classic Pannenkoeken.
More tips and tricks
For the very best result, keep the ontbijtkoek in an airtight container for a few days after baking. This lets the flavour develop further and makes the loaf even moister. Experiment with the baking time to find your perfect texture. If you like it especially aromatic, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom — small changes like these can have a big effect on the overall impression.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Ontbijtkoek is easy to tailor to personal preference. Add dried fruit such as raisins or dates for extra sweetness and texture, or fold in some nuts to lend the loaf a pleasant crunch. Vary the spices to suit your own palate and uncover new, exciting flavour profiles. This kind of flexibility is part of what makes the bread such a rewarding bake.
Ingredient substitutions
If you have no honey to hand, brown sugar or another sweetener works just as well to sweeten the ontbijtkoek. In place of rye flour you could also use spelt flour, which gives a similar result. If you fancy changing the spices, do try different combinations to find your favourite version. There are countless ways to get creative and make the recipe your own, in the same spirit as a homemade Kruidkoek.
Drink pairing ideas
Ontbijtkoek is wonderful alongside a warm drink. A good tea or coffee suits it particularly well. For a special touch, brew a spiced chai tea that mirrors the warm notes of the loaf. For a festive breakfast, a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice also works beautifully, balancing the sweetness of the bread with a bright, fresh lift.
Serving and presentation ideas
To present your ontbijtkoek attractively, cut it into even slices and arrange them on a handsome wooden board. A selection of toppings such as butter, jam or fresh fruit can be served right alongside. Garnish the plate with a few fresh herbs or edible flowers for an appealing look. These little details make all the difference and lift the whole spread — a tradition shared with sweeter Dutch bakes like Speculaas.
A bit of history
Ontbijtkoek has its roots in Dutch country kitchens, where it was originally made by farmers as a nourishing meal to see them through the day. It is a simple yet deeply flavoursome bake that lends itself to endless variation. Traditionally it was eaten at breakfast or carried along as a snack for the midday break. Today the ontbijtkoek is known and loved not only across the Netherlands but internationally too, sitting comfortably beside other Dutch favourites such as Stroopwafels.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Ontbijtkoek
Ontbijtkoek is an absolute must for anyone who would like a slice of Dutch culture in their own kitchen. With its simple ingredients and endless scope for adaptation, this spiced loaf remains a true classic. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or as a snack, the ontbijtkoek will win you over with its unique flavour. Give the recipe a go and bring a little Dutch flair to your table.
