📝 About This Recipe
Transport your kitchen to the cobblestone streets of Brussels with these deeply caramelized, spice-infused biscuits. Traditionally baked for St. Nicholas Day, Speculoos are celebrated for their distinctive crunch and a complex blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The secret lies in the dark candi sugar, which provides a rich, toffee-like depth that makes these the perfect companion for a steaming cup of coffee or tea.
🥗 Ingredients
The Dry Base
- 3 cups All-purpose flour (sifted)
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Fine sea salt
The Signature Spice Blend
- 1 tablespoon Ground cinnamon (high-quality Ceylon preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground nutmeg (freshly grated)
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground white pepper (adds a subtle, authentic heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground cardamom
The Creaming Mixture
- 1 cup Unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 1 1/4 cups Dark brown sugar (packed; Belgian Candi sugar is best if available)
- 1 Large egg (at room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon Whole milk
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking soda, sea salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, white pepper, and cardamom until the spices are evenly distributed.
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2
In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and dark brown sugar together on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
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3
Add the egg and the tablespoon of milk to the butter mixture, beating well until fully incorporated and the texture is smooth.
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4
Turn the mixer to low speed and gradually add the dry spice and flour mixture. Mix just until the flour streaks disappear; do not overwork the dough or the biscuits will be tough.
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5
Turn the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap. Shape it into a flat disc, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the spices to bloom and the sugar to hydrate.
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6
When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
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7
On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough out to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3mm). If the dough is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
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8
Use traditional wooden Speculoos molds (floured well) or cookie cutters to cut out shapes. If using molds, press the dough in firmly, trim the excess with a wire or knife, and knock the mold against the table to release.
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9
Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart as they do not spread significantly.
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10
Bake for 12-15 minutes. The edges should be slightly darker brown and the cookies should feel firm to the touch.
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11
Allow the biscuits to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will become crisp as they cool.
💡 Chef's Tips
For the most authentic flavor, use Belgian 'Vergeoise Brune' or dark muscovado sugar to get that deep molasses profile. Don't skip the overnight chill; it is essential for the spices to permeate the dough and for the classic 'snap' texture. If using intricate wooden molds, dust them with a mix of flour and cornstarch to ensure the dough releases perfectly without sticking. If you prefer a thinner, crispier cookie, roll the dough to 1/16 inch, but keep a close eye on the oven as they will brown quickly. Store in an airtight tin for up to 3 weeks; the flavor actually improves after a few days of resting.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside a traditional Belgian coffee or a dark, malty Abbey-style ale. Crumble over vanilla bean ice cream for an instant 'Speculoos Cheesecake' flavor profile. Pair with a sharp, aged Gouda or Cheddar for a sophisticated sweet-and-savory dessert board. Dip halfway into melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt. Use two biscuits to sandwich a layer of creamy Biscoff spread or almond butter.