Monday, January 28, 2013


THE DARING BAKERS' JANUARY, 2013 CHALLENGE: 

GEVULDE SPECULAAS

Francijn of Koken in de Brouwerij was our January 2013 Daring Bakers’ Hostess and she challenged us to make the traditional Dutch pastry, Gevulde Speculaas from scratch! That includes making our own spice mix, almond paste and dough! Delicious!

Francijn gave us a really good history overview about the significance of the spice trade in relation to the Netherlands economy, the Baker's Guild and the creation of spice mixes and in particular Speculaas Spices.

Francijn told us the recipe was neither difficult nor time consuming but was delicious - and she was correct. Personally this was a great challenge being  at the hot time of our year - mid summer - not wanting to spend too long in the kitchen with the oven going.

This is a great recipe to have in my repertoire - easy but delicious - so easy to make our own almond paste.
 My Dutch friend visited while there was still some left and gave it the seal of approval - her Mum used to make speculaas and she said it was "just right" !


Thanks Francijn for a great recipe to keep,all your work on the challenge , individual feedback and helpful solutions to the bakers' questions.
Enjoyed by all !

You can find the recipe here at the Daring Bakers page.