Poffertjes are small, thick and fluffy Dutch pancakes. They are traditionally served with a knob of butter and dusted with icing sugar, which gives them a sweeter flavour than regular pancakes. In some parts of the Netherlands, they are also garnished with syrup or chocolate flakes.
The origins of poffertjes date back to 1795. According to legend, monks near Bordeaux experimented with buckwheat flour to create the first poffertjes. During the French Revolution, traders took the idea to the Netherlands, where the recipe was adapted. Initially called 'Broedertjes', they were mainly sold at fairs and church festivals, and they quickly gained popularity.
Today, poffertjes are considered a true national dish of the Netherlands. They are an integral part of Dutch food culture, whether at street stands, in bakeries, cafés or restaurants. Poffertjes stands can also often be found at funfairs, folk festivals and Christmas markets in Germany, especially in the north and the Rhineland.