Kaasstengels

Kaasstengels are a Dutch and Belgian savory snack consisting of long, slim sticks of pastry that are filled with or topped with cheese. They are commonly served as a borrelhapje (finger food) or snack and are widely available in supermarkets as fresh or frozen, ready-to-bake products.

The typical preparation uses puff pastry or shortcrust dough. The dough is rolled out, sprinkled with grated cheese such as Gouda or Edam (sometimes mozzarella), and cut into sticks. Some versions are hollow or have cheese folded inside, while others are simply topped with cheese. The sticks are usually brushed with an egg wash to achieve a glossy, golden crust and may be finished with sesame or poppy seeds. They are baked until crisp and golden and are commonly eaten warm, often accompanied by mustard, aioli, or other dips.

Variants exist, including kaasstengels met ham (ham and cheese sticks) or purely vegetarian cheese sticks. The exact shape and fillings can vary by region and bakery, but the core concept remains a cheese-flavored pastry finger that pairs with drinks or serves as a light snack.

Cultural context shows kaasstengels as a familiar element of Dutch-speaking snack culture, frequently found at parties, cafés, and home gatherings. They are valued for their convenient bite-size form and straightforward preparation, whether made from scratch or purchased as a ready-to-bake product.