Stroopwafels Made in Brooklyn?

SNACKFIND FRIDAY 

Handmade STROOPWAFELS from “the good batch“, a Brooklyn-based baking company

When you hear the name Stroopwafel and Brooklyn, in the same sentence, you might think it has something to do with sitting on the stoop in front of a Brooklyn brownstone.  However, a Stroopwafel is actually a waffle-like cookie, that originated in Holland. 

A few years ago, I visited Prague the week between Christmas and New Years.  Having never been to Prague, I could not imagine a more magical time to be there.  The streets were full of snow, the Christmas lights and decorations were everywhere and the holiday market in the square was in full swing.

Cocoa Caramel Stroopwafel

To my surprise, in the middle of vendors selling scarves, marionettes, and mugs of mulled cider, there was a man selling the largest gooey and freshly made Stroopwafels I had ever seen.  Stroopwafels, like the name sounds, are actually delicate chewy cookies, made of two thin waffles, with a layer of caramel syrup spread in between. 

Recently, when I was browsing in and out of the shops on Bedford Ave. in Williamsburg, NY and I stopped into RADISH, a fabulous gourmet shop,  you must visit.  They have wonderful sandwiches, homemade soda, and local Brooklyn made products.

When I spotted the Cocoa Caramel Stroopwafels from Brooklyn based, The Good Batch sitting on the counter, I squealed with joy.   I have yet to find freshly baked Stroopwafels anywhere in the U.S. that look or taste anything like what I devoured at the Christmas market in Prague.  Most Stroopwafels I’ve tasted come packaged and are imported from Holland where the recipe originated.  

 

Pastry chef, Anna Gordon is the master of these delectable treats.  She’s created a recipe for both “classic” and “cocoa caramel” Stroopwafels.  Available on line at http://thegoodbatch.com and at several specialty shops around Brooklyn and New York City, she also sells them at the Brooklyn Flea market on Saturdays.  Rumor has it that she has Stroopwafel ice-cream sandwiches for sale at the “Flea”.  I’m planning to head there this weekend to get a taste of this inventive creation.  Who knows, maybe I’ll be able to pick up a marionette and feel like I’m back in Prague.