Ontbijtkoek, literally translating to “breakfast cake” in Dutch, is a spiced, rye bread traditionally enjoyed in the Netherlands. Unlike its name suggests, this treat is incredibly versatile and can be savored any time of day. Imagine a slice of this aromatic, subtly sweet bread with a cup of coffee in the morning, or paired with a savory cheese board in the evening. Intrigued? Let’s delve into the world of ontbijtkoek and learn how to make it right in your own kitchen.
A Taste of Dutch Tradition
My first encounter with ontbijtkoek was during a visit to my Dutch friend’s grandmother. The aroma wafting from her kitchen was intoxicating—a warm, inviting blend of spices and molasses. She explained that ontbijtkoek is a staple in many Dutch households, often baked with love and passed down through generations.
“It’s a taste of home,” she told me, handing me a warm slice slathered with butter. And that’s exactly what it was—a taste of warmth, tradition, and pure comfort.
Ready to create your own taste of Dutch tradition? Let’s gather our ingredients and get baking!
Ingredients for the Perfect Ontbijtkoek
Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this rustic Dutch delight:
- 250g rye flour
- 125g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 250g molasses
- 250ml buttermilk
- Optional: 50g chopped candied ginger or chopped nuts
Ingredient Notes:
- Rye flour: This is the key ingredient that gives ontbijtkoek its distinct flavor and texture. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with a combination of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour.
- Molasses: This adds sweetness and a deep, rich flavor to the bread. You can use light or dark molasses, depending on your preference.
- Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds moisture and tanginess to the dough. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 250ml of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Tools for Baking Success
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Parchment paper
- Toothpick
Let’s Get Baking: Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat & Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In your large mixing bowl, whisk together the rye flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the spices.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the molasses and buttermilk until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing with a rubber spatula until just combined. Don’t overmix! A few lumps are perfectly fine.
- Add-ins (Optional): Now’s the time to stir in any additional goodies like chopped candied ginger or nuts. This is your chance to personalize the flavor!
- Pour & Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Enjoy: Once baked, let the ontbijtkoek cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
