Dutch Speculaas Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s packed with comforting spices and is perfect for any occasion, the Dutch Speculaas Cake is your go-to treat. Inspired by traditional Dutch baking, this cake is a delicious blend of aromatic spices, such as cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, combined with a moist, tender crumb. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply indulging in a cosy afternoon treat, this cake never fails to impress.

But there’s more to this cake than just its flavour! In this article, we’ll explore the unique history of speculaas, dive into the key ingredients that make up this cake, and even share a simple, step-by-step recipe for baking your very own Dutch Speculaas Cake. Let’s get started!

Key Ingredients in Dutch Speculaas Cake

The Role of Speculaas Spice Blend

The key to the irresistible flavour of Dutch Speculaas Cake lies in its signature speculaas spice blend. This combination of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves is what gives the cake its signature warmth and depth. If you’ve ever enjoyed the beloved speculoos cookies, you’re already familiar with the aromatic charm that these spices bring. The mix can also include a pinch of cardamom for a little extra complexity, but it’s totally up to your taste.

These spices create the heart of the Dutch Speculaas Cake. As the cake bakes, the warm scent fills the air, making your kitchen feel like the cosiest spot on earth. This isn’t just a cake—it’s an experience for your senses!

Essential Ingredients for a Moist Speculaas Cake

Along with the speculaas spices, there are a few more key ingredients that make the Dutch Speculaas Cake so moist and flavorful. First, we have almond flour—a crucial ingredient that adds a lovely, nutty richness to the cake. It works in harmony with the all-purpose flour, giving the cake a delicate texture without making it too dense.

Then, there’s the magic of brown sugar. It brings a deep, caramelized sweetness that’s perfect for balancing the spiciness of the cake. Adding yoghurt or sour cream also contributes to the cake’s tender crumb, keeping it moist and soft without being overly heavy.

Together, these ingredients create a cake that’s light, moist, and full of flavour. And, of course, you can’t forget the vanilla extract, which brings a comforting sweetness that rounds out the spices beautifully.

The Magic of Speculaas Spices

Understanding Speculaas Spice Mix

One of the most distinctive aspects of Dutch Speculaas Cake is the speculaas spice mix. This blend, which originates from the Netherlands, is made up of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and sometimes even cardamom. Together, these spices form the signature flavour of speculoos cookies, and they make their way into this cake, transforming it into something truly special.

Each spice in the mix has a unique role. Cinnamon gives a warm, familiar flavour; ginger adds a hint of sharpness; nutmeg brings a subtle earthiness; and cloves contribute a bit of clove-like sweetness. When baked into the cake, these spices create a cosy, festive aroma that instantly makes you feel at home.

How to Make Homemade Speculaas Spice

Making your own special spice at home is easy! All you need is a few simple ingredients: cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and cardamom. You can mix them together in the quantities that suit your taste, but a basic recipe would include:

• 4 tablespoons cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons ginger
• 2 tablespoons nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons cardamom
• 2 teaspoons cloves

Mix everything in a small bowl and store it in an airtight container for up to six months. Not only will you have a fresh batch of spice ready for your Dutch Speculaas Cake, but you can also use it in other baked goods or even add it to your coffee for a warm, spiced drink.

How to Make Dutch Speculaas Cake – Step-by-Step Recipe

Preparing the Wet Ingredients

To get started with your Dutch Speculaas Cake, begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a 20 cm (8-inch) round cake pan or loaf tin. This will ensure your cake doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly shaped. In a large mixing bowl, beat the brown sugar and eggs together until they become light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer. Once your mixture is airy, slowly add the vegetable oil, yoghurt or sour cream, vanilla extract, and the optional orange zest. The zest adds a zesty, fresh undertone that complements the spices wonderfully. Mix everything together until smooth.

Mixing Dry Ingredients and Combining

Next, in a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, and the special spice blend. This combination of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves is what gives the cake its warm, cosy flavour. Once the dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed, gradually fold them into the wet ingredients. Do this gently to avoid over-mixing, which could make your cake dense. Mix until everything is just combined, ensuring no flour pockets remain.

Baking Tips for Perfect Speculaas Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared cake pan, making sure to spread it evenly. If you’d like to add some texture, sprinkle sliced almonds on top. Not only do they add a lovely crunch, but they also bring out the almond flavour in the cake. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. The warm aroma of the Dutch Speculaas Cake will fill your kitchen as it bakes, and you’ll know it’s almost ready when it turns a beautiful golden brown.

Cooling and Serving the Cake

Once done, allow your cake to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures the cake doesn’t break apart when you remove it from the pan. Serve the cake as is, or for an extra touch, dust it with a light coating of powdered sugar. The Dutch Speculaas Cake is delicious on its own or paired with a warm cup of tea or coffee.

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Variations and Creative Twists on the Classic Dutch Speculaas Cake

Adding Filling: Speculaas with Almond Paste

While the classic Dutch Speculaas Cake is already a treat, you can take it to the next level by adding an almond paste filling. Almond paste is a traditional ingredient used in many Dutch desserts, and it pairs beautifully with the spices in this cake. To do this, simply spread a thin layer of almond paste in the middle of your batter before baking. When the cake bakes, the almond paste will create a deliciously gooey, nutty centre that enhances the overall flavour. This twist makes the cake even more indulgent and is perfect for special occasions.

Speculaas Cake as a Bundt Cake

Another fun variation is to bake your Dutch Speculaas Cake in a Bundt cake pan. The unique shape of the Bundt pan makes for a stunning presentation, and the extra surface area allows for a crispier edge. You can also drizzle a simple glaze over the top, adding an extra layer of sweetness that complements the cake’s spices.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Alternatives for Speculaas Cake

For those with dietary restrictions, don’t worry—this cake can easily be adapted. To make a gluten-free version, swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs (mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes, and then use as you would a regular egg). These adaptations ensure that everyone can enjoy the delicious flavours of Dutch Speculaas Cake.

For more delicious cake recipes, check out our article on the Almond Nut Cake Recipe.

Dutch Speculaas Cake: Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Best Beverages to Pair with Speculaas Cake

A Dutch Speculaas Cake is a rich, flavorful dessert that pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For a cosy, relaxing experience, try serving it with a warm cup of tea. A classic black tea, like Earl Grey or English Breakfast, complements the spicy warmth of the cake perfectly. If you prefer coffee, a mild latte or Americano brings out the deep flavours of the special spices without overwhelming them. For something a bit more festive, a glass of spiced cider or a warm mulled wine adds a touch of holiday magic to your gathering.

Serving Ideas: A Touch of Whipped Cream or Powdered Sugar

While Dutch Speculaas Cake is delicious on its own, a few simple garnishes can elevate it to the next level. For a light, creamy contrast, top your slice with a dollop of fresh whipped cream. The subtle sweetness and richness of the cream balance the cake’s spices perfectly. Alternatively, a light dusting of powdered sugar gives the cake a classic finish and a touch of elegance. These small additions can transform your simple cake into a dessert worthy of any occasion.

Dutch Speculaas Cake FAQs

What is the difference between Speculaas and Speculoos?

If you’re new to the world of speculaas, you might be wondering about the difference between speculaas and speculoos. Though they share a similar flavour profile, speculoos is a specific brand of cookie that became famous worldwide. Speculaas, on the other hand, refers to the spiced cookies and cakes made using the speculaas spice blend. So, in short, speculaas is the broader term used to describe the traditional Dutch spiced treats, and speculoos is one version of those, particularly popular in Belgium and abroad.

Can I Freeze Dutch Speculaas Cake?

Yes! If you want to enjoy your Dutch Speculaas Cake later, it freezes beautifully. Simply wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap or foil and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just let the cake thaw at room temperature for a few hours. It’ll taste just as fresh as the day you made it! You can also freeze individual slices for a convenient snack anytime.

How Long Does Speculaas Cake Last?

Once baked, your Dutch Speculaas Cake can last for about 4-5 days when stored properly. Keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. If you’ve topped it with whipped cream or other fresh toppings, it’s best to serve it the same day. But, if you’re simply enjoying the cake itself, it will stay delicious for several days.