A Classic Dutch Breakfast That Deserves the Spotlight
Ever wondered why French toast is celebrated worldwide but its Dutch cousin, Wentelteefjes, remains under the radar? While “French toast” sounds exotic, it's actually a global comfort food with countless variations—Wentelteefjes being one of the most flavorful and nostalgic versions out there. This cinnamon-kissed dish is more than just a way to use old bread—it’s a warm, golden delight tied to Sunday mornings, cozy kitchens, and generations of Dutch culinary tradition.
In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Wentelteefjes, from the perfect egg mixture to serving it with a gourmet twist. Whether you're cooking for a lazy weekend brunch or crafting a quick dessert, this recipe will soon be a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients List
Creating authentic Wentelteefjes starts with basic pantry staples, but the magic is in the balance. Here's everything you’ll need:
Base Ingredients:
- 8 slices of day-old white bread (brioche or sourdough work great too!)
- 2 large eggs
- 250 ml (1 cup) whole milk
- 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for frying)
Optional Add-ons and Variations:
- Substitute almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Swap in coconut sugar or maple syrup for a healthier, low-GI option.
- Use gluten-free bread to make it suitable for dietary restrictions.
For Topping:
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Whipped cream or Greek yogurt
- Honey, maple syrup, or Dutch stroop (syrup)
🍞 Pro Tip: Day-old or stale bread is perfect—it soaks up the egg mixture without falling apart.
Timing
Making Wentelteefjes is quick and satisfying. Here's the breakdown:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Compared to American-style French toast, Wentelteefjes is quicker due to its thinner egg coating and simple frying process—perfect for busy mornings!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a wide bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. The cinnamon should be fully incorporated, and the mixture should have a warm, golden hue.
✅ Expert Tip: Use room temperature eggs and milk for a smoother batter and better bread absorption.
Step 2: Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture. Let it soak for 10–15 seconds on each side—enough to absorb flavor without turning soggy.
💡 Flavor Boost: For a richer taste, soak the bread longer and cook slower to keep the inside custardy.
Step 3: Heat the Pan
Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Let it melt until foamy but not browned.
🔥 Pro Tip: Too hot? The butter will burn. Too cold? Your bread won't crisp. Medium heat is key!
Step 4: Cook the Wentelteefjes
Fry each slice for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges.
🧈 Golden Rule: Wipe the pan and add fresh butter between batches for consistent texture and flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Top Creatively
Serve your hot Wentelteefjes with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, and a drizzle of syrup. Fresh berries add a nice acidic balance to the sweetness.
🥄 Serve Hot! Wentelteefjes are best eaten fresh out of the pan when the outside is still crisp.
Nutritional Information
Here's a basic nutritional breakdown per serving (2 slices with standard toppings):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Sugar: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
-
Sodium: 220mg
🥗 Note: Values may vary based on bread type, toppings, and milk used.
Healthier Alternatives
Looking to enjoy Wentelteefjes guilt-free? Try these lighter tweaks:
- Gluten-Free Bread: Choose dense, nut-based or whole grain gluten-free loaves.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use unsweetened almond or oat milk, and coconut oil instead of butter.
- Keto-Friendly: Use low-carb bread and swap sugar with erythritol or stevia.
- Low-Fat Option: Replace whole milk with skim milk or plant-based alternatives, and use cooking spray instead of butter.
🥑 Health Boost: Add chia or flax seeds to the batter for fiber and omega-3s.
Serving Suggestions
Want to elevate your Wentelteefjes game? Here are some pairing ideas:
- Dutch Style: Top with Dutch stroop, cinnamon sugar, and butter.
- Gourmet Brunch: Add caramelized bananas, chopped nuts, and espresso cream.
- Holiday Vibes: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and serve with warm apple compote.
- Savory Twist: Skip sugar and cinnamon, add herbs to the egg mix, and serve with cheese or avocado.
☕ Pair With: Freshly brewed coffee, chai latte, or fresh orange juice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for perfect Wentelteefjes every time:
- Over-soaking bread: Leads to soggy slices.
- Pan too hot: Burns the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
- Wrong bread type: Avoid very soft sandwich bread—it tears easily.
- No rest time: Let slices rest a few seconds after soaking for better structure.
- Skipping the cinnamon: It’s the soul of this dish!
📌 Pro Tip: Always taste your egg mixture before soaking the bread—it should be subtly sweet and aromatic.
Storing Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them delicious:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Place parchment between slices and freeze in a zip bag for up to 1 month.
- Reheat: Toast in a pan or air fryer for crispy results—avoid the microwave to prevent sogginess.
🧊 Meal Prep Tip: Make a large batch and freeze individual portions for a quick weekday breakfast.
Conclusion
Wentelteefjes is more than just Dutch French toast—it’s a delicious cultural staple that’s as cozy as it is easy. Whether you follow the classic version or explore healthy swaps, this recipe will quickly become a go-to. Simple ingredients, endless topping possibilities, and comforting flavors make this a win for any meal of the day.
Try it today, and let us know how your Dutch French toast turned out!
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FAQs
What does "Wentelteefjes" mean?
“Wentelteefjes” literally translates to “turnover bitches” in old Dutch slang—a cheeky term for flipping slices of stale bread in a sweet custard and frying them up.
Can I make Wentelteefjes in the oven?
Yes! Place soaked bread on a parchment-lined tray and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once halfway.
What bread works best?
Brioche, challah, or sourdough are excellent. Avoid pre-sliced sandwich bread unless it’s thick and slightly stale.
Are Wentelteefjes always sweet?
Traditionally, yes. But savory versions (cheese, herbs, even bacon!) are rising in popularity in modern Dutch cafés.
Can I prepare the batter the night before?
Absolutely. Store the egg mixture in the fridge, then dip and cook fresh in the morning.