Gevulde Speculaas

Dutch · Dessert · Medium

Gevulde Speculaas

Total
2 hr 10 min
Prep
1 hr 30 min
Serves
16
Calories
275
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Warmly spiced brown-sugar cookie dough encloses a soft almond-paste center, baked in a slab and cut into fragrant squares.

A layer of almond paste keeps Gevulde Speculaas moist between its two spiced crusts. The dough firms in the refrigerator, making it easier to roll without losing the neat layers.

Use almond paste rather than marzipan, which is sweeter and less nutty. Add milk gradually to the dough and stop when it holds together; the amount needed depends on how the flour was measured.

Method

  1. Mix self-rising flour, brown sugar and speculaas spice mix. Work in butter, then 6 tbsp milk to make a firm dough; add extra milk only if it remains crumbly. Wrap and chill for .

  2. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment. Knead almond paste with half the beaten egg until spreadable.

  3. Roll half the dough between parchment sheets to fit the pan and press it into the base. Spread almond paste evenly over it. Roll the remaining dough to fit and lay it over the filling.

  4. Brush with remaining egg and arrange almonds in a four-by-four pattern. Bake for until the top is browned and firm and the filling is set. Cool in the pan before cutting into 16 squares.

Forkue tips

  • If you cannot find speculaas spice, combine cinnamon with smaller pinches of ginger, cloves, nutmeg and cardamom.

Storing and reheating

Store airtight in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months. Let squares come to room temperature before eating so the almond layer softens.

Kitchen gear

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Nutrition per serving, estimated

275Calories
5gProtein
36gCarbs
13gFat

Gevulde Speculaas: FAQ

Can I use marzipan?

Almond paste is preferable. Marzipan contains more sugar and produces a sweeter, firmer center.

Why does the dough crack when rolling?

It may be too cold or slightly dry. Let it soften briefly and roll between parchment sheets to support the edges.

How do I store and reheat Gevulde Speculaas?

Store airtight in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months. Let squares come to room temperature before eating so the almond layer softens.

How long does Gevulde Speculaas take?

About 2 hr 10 min in total: 1 hr 30 min prep and 40 min cooking.

What do I need to make Gevulde Speculaas?

The key ingredients are self-rising flour, speculaas spice mix, butter, milk, almond paste and egg, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Gevulde Speculaas?

If you cannot find speculaas spice, combine cinnamon with smaller pinches of ginger, cloves, nutmeg and cardamom.