Sweet & Savory: Kid-Approved Snacks to Try at Amsterdam Markets

Sweet & Savory: Kid-Approved Snacks to try at Amsterdam Markets

Planning a trip to Amsterdam with your kids? One of the best ways to experience the city like a local is by tasting the delicious snacks sold at the open-air markets! Whether you're exploring the Albert Cuyp Market, Dappermarkt or one of the pop-up weekend markets, there’s always a tasty treat waiting around the corner.

Here’s a guide to the most kid-approved Dutch snacks you’ll find at Amsterdam’s markets!

🍯 Stroopwafels: Sweet, Sticky, and Simply Irresistible

A must-try for every visitor! Stroopwafels are thin waffles sliced in half and filled with warm, gooey caramel syrup.
At many markets, you’ll find stands making them fresh—crispy on the outside, soft and melty in the middle. Kids love watching them being pressed and filled right in front of their eyes!

🛑 Insider tip: Get yourself a freshly made stroopwafel while it’s still warm. Absolute heaven!

🍴 Poffertjes: Tiny Pancakes, Big Smiles

Poffertjes are fluffy mini pancakes served piping hot with a generous dusting of powdered sugar and butter. Watching them cook in a special poffertjes pan is almost as much fun as eating them!

🧡 Kid bonus: Some stalls offer extra toppings like Nutella, strawberries, or whipped cream but the best way to enjoy them is the Dutch style with powder sugar and butter.

🥞 Dutch Pancakes (Pannenkoeken): Big, Flat, and Full of Flavor

Unlike American pancakes, Dutch pannenkoeken are large and thin—almost like a crepe but slightly thicker. You’ll often find mobile pancake stalls at bigger markets, serving bothsweet (think apples and cinnamon) and savory (like cheese and ham) versions.

🛑 Insider tip: Share one between you and your child—it’s usually big enough for two!

🐟 Kibbeling: The Dutch Fish Nugget

If your kids like fish fingers, they’ll love kibbeling! These are chunks of white fish (usually cod) battered and deep-fried until golden and crispy. Served with a side of creamy garlic or tartar sauce, it’s a crunchy, mild-flavored snack that's surprisingly kid-friendly.

🧡 Kid bonus: Some stalls offer small "kids' portions"—perfect for little hands.

🍟 Patat: Dutch Fries Done Right

No trip to Amsterdam is complete without trying patat! These thick-cut fries are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and typically served in a cone with a huge dollop of sauce on top.
The classic choice? Patat met — fries with creamy Dutch mayonnaise.

🛑 Insider tip: Feeling adventurous? Try patat oorlog ("fries war") with peanut sauce, mayo, and onions. Maybe a bit much for kids, but delicious for adults!

🐟 Haring: A Brave Kid’s Adventure Snack

For the little food adventurers: haring is raw (but lightly cured) herring served with chopped onions and pickles. Traditionally, the fish is eaten by holding it by the tail and taking a bite!
If that’s a bit too daring, many stalls also serve haring in a soft bun (broodje haring)—a milder way to try this Dutch classic.

🧡 Kid bonus: Encourage a small bite first! Some kids surprise you by loving it.

Pro Tips for Snacking at Amsterdam’s Markets 🎒

🕘 Visit markets earlier in the day when stalls are less crowded.

💶 Bring some cash—many smaller vendors prefer it.

🧴 Carry wet wipes! Stroopwafels and poffertjes can get deliciously sticky.

📸 Don’t forget your camera—nothing cuter than a powdered-sugar-covered smile!