Where in the world are pepernoot cookies eaten?

Pepernoot cookies, those tiny, crunchy Dutch cookies spiced with cinnamon and gingerbread spices may have started as a seasonal treat in the Netherlands, but their popularity is growing far beyond Dutch borders. So, where exactly are these delicious cookies being enjoyed today?

The Netherlands: Where It All Began

Unsurprisingly, the Netherlands remains the heartland of pepernoten. Every year, from September through early December, pepernoten are everywhere — in homes, shops, offices, and especially in Sinterklaas celebrations. With more than 7 billion eaten annually, it’s safe to say the Dutch are the world’s biggest fans.

Belgium and Germany

Thanks to their shared history and proximity to the Netherlands, pepernoten are also familiar faces in parts of Belgium and Germany, especially near the borders. Some German holiday markets even carry them, often mistaken for Lebkuchen or Pfeffernüsse — but true pepernoten fans know the difference.

United Kingdom

The UK is catching on. With the rise of international food trends, pepernoot cookies are showing up in specialty food shops, online stores, and Christmas markets. British customers love the crunchy texture and spiced flavour, especially when coated in Belgian chocolate or seasonal varieties like sea salt caramel or tiramisu.

United States and Canada

In North America, Dutch heritage communities in places like Michigan, Iowa, and Ontario have kept the tradition alive. But pepernoten are also becoming popular through holiday gift boxes and European snack subscriptions. They’re often introduced as spiced ginger cookies — a gateway snack to a new obsession.

Online: Global Reach

Thanks to global shipping and e-commerce, pepernoten now travel the world. Whether you’re in Australia, Japan, or the UAE, you can order a bag (or twelve) of these irresistible cookies online — especially during the autumn and winter seasons. You can order them on www.vandelftchocolates.nl.