Thin, crisp waffle cookies sandwiched together with a gooey cinnamon caramel filling. If you've ever flown internationally, wandered through Amsterdam, or browsed the cookie aisle at Costco, you've probably encountered a stroopwafel.

But nothing compares to a homemade stroopwafel.

Freshly baked, still slightly warm, with a rich caramel filling that softens when placed over a hot cup of coffee or tea, stroopwafels are one of the most beloved treats in the Netherlands. Today, we're recreating this Dutch classic with a completely gluten-free version that delivers all the flavor and texture of the original.

Whether you're celebrating the FIFA World Cup, exploring international desserts, or simply looking for your next baking adventure, these gluten-free stroopwafels are worth every bite.

What Is a Stroopwafel?

A stroopwafel consists of two thin waffle cookies joined together with a caramel-like syrup filling called stroop.

The name literally translates to: Stroop = syrup, Wafel = waffle.

The cookie is traditionally enjoyed by placing it over a hot cup of coffee or tea. The steam gently warms the caramel filling, making it irresistibly soft and gooey.

The History of the Stroopwafel

Like many iconic foods, the stroopwafel began as a humble invention.

Food historians trace its origins to the Dutch city of Gouda around 1810. According to Dutch culinary tradition, baker Gerard Kamphuisen began combining leftover dough scraps and sweet syrup fillings to create an affordable treat for working-class families. The cookie became known as an armenkoek or "poor man's cookie."

As sugar became more affordable during the 1800s, stroopwafels spread throughout the Netherlands and eventually around the world. Today they're one of the country's most recognizable desserts and a symbol of Dutch baking culture.

Traditional Variations

While the classic caramel version remains king, modern Dutch bakeries offer:

• Chocolate-covered stroopwafels

• Sea salt caramel stroopwafels

• Honey-filled wafels

• Coffee-flavored stroopwafels

• Mini stroopwafels

• Stroopwafels dipped in dark chocolate

The traditional version remains the most popular and recognizable.

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Gluten-Free Stroopwafels

Makes

10-12 large stroopwafels

Ingredients

For the Waffle Cookies

• 2 cups (240g) gluten-free all-purpose flour

• 2 tbsp cornstarch

• 2 tsp xanthan gum (if your blend doesn't include it)

• 1 tsp instant yeast

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• ¼ tsp salt

• ⅓ cup brown sugar

• 6 tbsp butter, softened

• 1 egg

• ¼ cup warm milk

• 1 tsp vanilla

For the Caramel Filling

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 6 tbsp butter

• ¼ cup heavy cream

• 1 tbsp corn syrup

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 tsp vanilla

• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl combine:

• Gluten-free flour

• Cornstarch

• Yeast

• Cinnamon

• Salt

• Brown sugar

Add:

• Butter

• Egg

• Milk

• Vanilla

Mix until a soft dough forms.

Cover and allow to rest for 45 minutes.

Cook the Waffles

Preheat a waffle cone maker or pizzelle iron.

 

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Divide dough into small balls.

Cook each portion until lightly golden.

Immediately trim into circles using a cookie cutter.

While still warm, carefully slice each waffle horizontally into two thin layers.

Make the Filling

In a saucepan combine:

• Brown sugar

• Butter

• Cream

• Corn syrup

• Cinnamon

Cook over medium heat until smooth and thick.

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.

Assemble

Spread warm caramel between two waffle halves.

Press gently.

Allow to cool completely.

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Tips for Authentic Stroopwafels

Use a Hot Beverage

Place the finished stroopwafel over a hot coffee, tea, or cocoa for about 60 seconds before eating.

This traditional Dutch method softens the filling and enhances the flavor.

Don't Overfill

A thin layer of caramel is all you need.

Too much filling will ooze out the sides.

Serve Fresh

Stroopwafels are at their absolute best the day they're made.

From their humble beginnings in Gouda's bakeries to becoming one of the world's most beloved cookies, stroopwafels are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary.

One bite and you'll understand why Dutch families have been enjoying them for more than 200 years.