Gevulde Koek, which translates to "filled cookie" in English, is a beloved Dutch pastry that features a delightfully rich almond paste filling encased in buttery shortcrust pastry. These large, flat cookies are instantly recognizable by their distinctive diamond-pattern scoring on top and their glossy appearance from an egg wash glaze.

The origins of Gevulde Koek can be traced back to the early 20th century in Dutch bakeries. The use of almond paste as a filling became popular during this period when almonds became more readily available through trade. The characteristic pattern on top was not just decorative - it helped bakers and customers identify the almond-filled cookies from other varieties.

Creating these Dutch treats requires skill and patience. The outer pastry is made from a rich shortcrust dough that needs to be just right - tender yet sturdy enough to hold the filling. The star of the show is the almond paste filling, made from ground almonds mixed with sugar, eggs, and sometimes a touch of lemon zest or almond extract. Each cookie is carefully assembled, scored with the traditional diamond pattern, and brushed with beaten egg before baking until golden brown.

While the traditional almond filling remains the most popular, modern variations have emerged. Some bakers experiment with different nuts like hazelnuts or pistachios, while others add spices like cinnamon or cardamom. You might also find versions with a hint of orange zest or vanilla for added complexity.

In the Netherlands, Gevulde Koek is a staple at bakeries and coffee shops, often enjoyed as a mid-morning or afternoon treat with coffee or tea. They're also popular at train stations and markets, where they're sold as a satisfying snack for travelers. During the holiday season, some bakers create special versions with seasonal spices or decorative touches.

While undeniably delicious, Gevulde Koek is quite rich and caloric, with each cookie containing approximately 300-400 calories due to the buttery pastry and almond paste filling. They're also not suitable for those with nut allergies due to the almond content. However, they can be a good source of protein and healthy fats from the almonds. The cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for several days, making them a perfect treat to share with friends or family.