TheDutch letter (also referred to asbanket letter,[1]almond letter,butter letter,[2] and inDutch asbanketstaaf,banketletter,boterletter, andletterbanket) is a type ofpastry that is typically prepared using a mixture of flour, eggs and butter orpuff pastry as its base and filled withalmond paste (orpersipan), dusted with sugar and shaped in an "S" or other letter shape.[1][3][4][5]Marzipan, an almond paste prepared withalmond meal and honey or sugar, is sometimes used as the filling.[6] The Dutch letter has a porous or airy and flaky texture.[7]
The pastry was originally shaped "into the initial of the family's surname."[4] Nowadays, the most common shape of the food in the United States is as the letter "S".[4][5] Dutch letters are served as a treat during December, and particularly onSinterklaasavond on December 5 inthe Netherlands,[8] and during some festivals in the United States.
The pastry's name is a shortened version of theDutch wordbanketletter.[2] They may also be calledbanketstaven,boterletters, andletterbanket byDutch people.[5][9]
Dutch letters were introduced to the United States by Dutch immigrants,[2] and originated inPella, Iowa, which was founded in 1845 by "Dutch religious refugees."[3] Dutch letters are a common treat at the annualTulip Festival in Pella, Iowa, and may be prepared by local residents and sold at markets, gas stations, and various local churches. They are sold year round at Dutch bakeries.[4]
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