Stroopwafels Are the Quintessential Dutch Treat You Need to Try

If you buy a stroopwafel from a street vendor in the Netherlands, you’ll see the whole cookie-making process with your own eyes: A ball of dough being pressed into one round wafers, the wafer being cut in two layers, and the addition of the warm filling in between them. Some vendors may even offer toppings like chocolate, caramel, cookie pieces, or candies for your stroopwafel.

Stroopwafels made on the streets are warm and enjoyably soft, so the wafer is never crispy. If you buy a package of stroopwafels from a shop, the wafer may be a little harder, but it’ll still be chewy, not crunchy. To warm up and soften a stroopwafel, the best thing to do is to lay it on top of a cup full of warm tea or coffee — the steam will work its magic.

If you can’t make it the Netherlands, know that United Airlines offers stroopwafels as an in-flight snack since 2015.

And if you’re not into sweet treats, try out another Dutch specialty: salty liquorice. A candy you’ve probably never had before.