How to Eat a Stroopwafel (The Proper Way)

You’ve unwrapped a stroopwafel. You’re holding it delicately, like a tiny golden record. Now what?

At Hans Egstorf—the oldest bakery in Amsterdam—we believe eating a stroopwafel should be an experience. One that’s slow, slightly sticky, and quietly satisfying.

Whether you’ve just stepped into our bakery on Spuistraat or unboxed a tin at home, here’s how to eat your stroopwafel the proper way.

Step 1: Warm It Up the Dutch Way

The traditional way to enjoy a stroopwafel is to place it gently on top of a hot cup of coffee or tea. Let the steam rise. Let the caramel soften. Wait one or two minutes (if you can). The waffle gently warms, the syrup melts just enough, and the magic begins.

This method isn’t a gimmick, it’s part of the ritual. It dates back generations, and our regulars will tell you: it’s worth the wait.

Tip: A fresh stroopwafel from our bakery will already be warm. But if you’re enjoying one from our jar or gift box at home, this step brings it beautifully back to life.

Step 2: Take That First Bite

Once your waffle has softened just a little, it’s time. Pick it up carefully (it might be slightly sticky) and take a bite.

You should feel the crisp outer waffle give way to the warm, cinnamon-spiced syrup inside. A little stretch. A slight melt. A flavour that’s rich, but never heavy.

This is the stroopwafel at its best: sweet, balanced, and deeply comforting.

Step 3: Try a Twist (Optional, but Delicious)

While we’ll always love the classic approach, there’s room to experiment.

Here are a few ways our customers enjoy their stroopwafels beyond the coffee cup:

• Dipped in chocolate (we sell those too)
• Crumpled over vanilla ice cream
• Filled with nut butter or fruit compote
• Gently grilled into a dessert sandwich
• Eaten cold, with a good book

We’ve seen it all. The key is to start with quality. Whether you’re indulging in our original 1898 recipe or trying something new, a proper Dutch caramel waffle should always begin with craftsmanship.

Step 4: Don’t Stop at One

A common mistake? Only buying one.

The stroopwafel is so much more than a treat, it’s a moment of indulgence. And once you’ve had one, the chances of stopping there are slim.

That’s why we bake them in small batches daily and package them in tins, jars, and gift boxes. So you can share (or not), store them beautifully, and always have one ready when the craving returns.

Bonus: On the Go or Straight from the Tin

Not near a coffee cup? No problem.

Our stroopwafels are designed to be enjoyed wherever you are: on a walk through Amsterdam, tucked in a suitcase, or opened at your desk. While warming enhances the experience, they’re just as delightful at room temperature, especially when made with real butter and hand-pressed syrup, like ours.

Come Try One Where It All Began

At Hans Egstorf, we’ve been baking stroopwafels in the heart of Amsterdam since 1898. Our method hasn’t changed much, simply because it doesn’t need to.

Whether you enjoy yours in silence or with company, wrapped in paper or dipped in chocolate, one thing is certain: a proper stroopwafel always leaves you thinking about the next one.

Your coffee is ready. So is your waffle.