Transform your holidays with this spekulaas (Spekulatius Gewürz) spice mix. This classic European spice blend is so aromatic and flavorful, it is no wonder that it is so popular during the Christmas period!
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I am a big fan of homemade seasoning! My Chips Spice, Pilau Masala and Chermoula Spice blends are always on rotation in our kitchen. Spekulatius spice is absolutely easy to make and a perfect DIY gift that you can make for your loved ones on birthdays or special holidays. It stores well, and has numerous uses in the kitchen, plus, it has absolutely no preservatives!
what is speculaas (spekulatius) spice?
Spekulaas or speculaas (Dutch) is a popular spice in Europe, that is particularly enjoyed during the feast of Saint Nicholas and during the time of Advent, where it is mostly used in baking biscuits and cookies. It goes by different names such as Spekulatius in Germany and Spéculoos in France. It is also popular in Belgium and the Netherlands. Outside Europe, Spekulatius is also enjoyed in Indonesia, where it was introduced to the country by the Dutch who colonized the country between 1816 and 1941.
Spekulatius biscuits were originally given to kids as a gift on the 6th of December (Saint Nicholas); obviously, this has since changed and children now get all sorts of gifts on the day (mostly oranges, nuts and chocolate). Regarding the name, one of the most popular theories is that it comes from the name of Saint Nicholas, as original versions of Spekulatius cookies had images of the Saint riding on a donkey. If you ask me, this theory makes the most sense, especially because Saint Nicholas was also referred to as episcopus speculator. Now that we know a little about this aromatic spice, let us now proceed on to make it.
speculaas ingredients
If you have bitten into a cookie that had Spekulaas in it or perhaps it was a milkshake, then you have probably asked yourself this question; what is this spice and what exactly is in it? I know I have asked myself this question several times! If you have, then here goes! Speculaas spice comprises the following ingredients (see the recipe card below for the quantities, as well as storage instructions):-
- cinnamon
- ground fennel seeds
- anis
- cloves
- nutmeg
- coriander
- cardamon
- white pepper
- ginger powder
- dried grated orange peel (rind) - you can also use a combination of grated dried orange and lemon peel.
how to make and use Spekulatius Gewürz
To make, simply add all the ingredients to a small bowl or a spice jar and combine! Use immediately or store it in sealable airtight containers for later.
Spekulaas spice is so versatile as you can use it in so many recipes. Use it to bake the traditional well-known Spekulatius biscuits or spekulaas cookies,make smoothies, Bratapfel (baked apples), sprinkle it on porridge, use it to make waffles, cakes, or crepes, add it to spreads for your bread or when making jam, to make ice cream, and so much more.
storage instructions
Transfer your Spekulatius spice to an airtight spice jar or glass, and keep it in a cool and dry place, possibly away from too much light for 2-3 months (you can still use it after this time, but it tends to lose its potency and aroma with time).
more tasty spice blends to try
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Spekulaas-Spekulatius Spice Mix
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2½ tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground fennel seeds (fennel powder)
- 1 tablespoon ground cloves
- 2 tablespoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1½ teaspoon ground anise seeds (anise powder)
- 2 tablespoon grated dried orange peel
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl, a plate, or a spice jar. Use in your recipes or store in an airtight spice container in a cool and dry place (see notes below).
Notes
- For a more intense aroma and flavor, use whole spices. Slightly roast them in a pan and then grind them using a coffee grinder.
- As a variation, try adding a tablespoon of grated lemon peel (rind) or an equal amount of allspice.
- Storage Instructions:- transfer your Spekulatius spice to an airtight spice jar or glass, and keep it in a cool and dry place, possibly away from too much light for 2-3 months (you can still use it after this time, but it tends to lose its potency and aroma with time).
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