By Wandernests Dispatch – Flavor Nest I 1 June, 2025

Pic courtesy wandernests.com

If there’s one dessert you should not leave Amsterdam without trying, it’s the legendary apple pie at Winkel 43. Nestled in the vibrant Jordaan district, this unassuming corner café has achieved cult status – one slice at a time. On a sunny morning bike ride through the Noordermarkt, I finally made my way to taste what many say is the best apple pie in the world. Spoiler alert: they weren’t exaggerating.

This post isn’t just about pie – it’s about heritage, craftsmanship, and why Winkel 43’s appeltaart has become an essential Dutch experience. So if you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam or just a dessert lover with wanderlust, read on.

The Jordaan: A Perfect Backdrop for a Perfect Apple Pie

Before diving into the pie, it’s worth setting the scene. The Jordaan is one of Amsterdam’s most charming neighborhoods—cobbled streets, hidden courtyards, and historic facades brimming with local character. It’s also home to Noordermarkt, a weekend farmer’s market that buzzes with stalls selling everything from artisanal cheese to vintage records. Amid this vibrant hub stands Winkel 43, its green awning slightly faded by time, its terrace always full, even in the biting cold.

The café’s warmth envelops you the moment you walk in – wooden interiors, cozy lighting, and the mouthwatering scent of cinnamon and baked apples. This isn’t just a stop for dessert; it’s a cultural institution.

Why Winkel 43’s Apple Pie Is So Famous

It might seem like a simple dessert—apples, cinnamon, sugar, butter, and flour—but Winkel 43 has elevated it into an art form. What sets their version apart?

The Recipe: Old-School Dutch with a Twist

The pie is known locally as “appeltaart,” and Winkel 43’s version is unapologetically rustic. Forget thin, neat slices of tart; this is a thick, crumbly wedge that leans into its farmhouse origins.

• Crust: A buttery, biscuit-like crust that’s equal parts crisp and tender.
• Filling: The apples (likely a blend of sweet and tart varieties like Goudreinet and Elstar) are generously spiced with cinnamon and perhaps a whisper of nutmeg.
• Texture: Unlike American apple pies, which often use a double crust, this Dutch version features a thick, cake-like topping that almost melts into the filling.
• Cream: Served with an indulgent dollop of fresh whipped cream—lightly sweetened and cloud-like in consistency.

It’s believed that the recipe has been passed down through generations, adapted over time but still honoring its Dutch roots. While Winkel 43 has never officially published their full recipe, attempts to reverse-engineer it abound online—and none quite match the original.

Heritage and History: The Soul of Winkel 43

Winkel 43 has been a local haunt for decades, long before Instagram made it globally famous. Situated near the Noorderkerk, the café sits at the heart of a community-rich area once home to working-class families and now a mix of locals, artists, and expats.

Pic courtesy http://www.tasteatlas.com

Their apple pie isn’t a gimmick; it’s a symbol of continuity. Locals fondly recall stopping by as children with their grandparents. Today, the recipe remains consistent, and the café stays true to its modest roots despite the global fame.

Winkel 43 doesn’t rely on flashy decor or modern gimmicks. It thrives on word of mouth, and increasingly, on passionate reviews by travelers and food bloggers.

What It’s Like to Eat It: A Sensory Journey

You don’t just eat this pie—you experience it. My fork sliced effortlessly through the tall wedge. Steam rose from the warm filling, the aroma a heady mix of spiced apple and buttery crust.

The first bite delivered a perfect balance:

• Soft yet textured apples, slightly al dente
• A crust that crumbled, but didn’t fall apart
• Sweetness balanced by tart fruit and earthy spice
• That whipped cream? It rounded out every bite like a velvet ribbon

Each mouthful evoked comfort, nostalgia, and a quiet sense of joy. It’s the kind of dish that grounds you in the moment, even in a city as buzzing as Amsterdam.

When and How to Visit Winkel 43

📍 Address: Noordermarkt 43, 1015 NA Amsterdam, Netherland

⏰ Timings: 8 AM to 1 AM (but go early if you want a seat without a wait!)

🌐 Website & Reservations: Winkel43

💶 Price: Around €5 per slice with whipped cream

No reservations, no fuss – just show up, grab a spot (or brave the queue), and dig in. Weekdays are slightly less crowded than weekends. If you can, sit outside. There’s something magical about enjoying your pie under the open sky, with the bustle of the market or the quiet of a lazy afternoon around you.

📣 Call to Action: Plan Your Culinary Pilgrimage

If you’re headed to Amsterdam, make Winkel 43 your first food stop. Trust me, this pie alone is worth booking that flight. And if you’ve already tried it, we’d love to hear your experience!

📝 Have a favorite pie memory or a café recommendation in Amsterdam? Share it in the comments or drop us a line via Wandernests Dispatch newsletter.

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