Speculoos Cookies are spiced, crunchy shortbread biscuits with warm flavors similar to that of gingerbread. They are pretty common in a variety of places like airplanes, trains, and other places and in different forms/brands.
What is a Speculoos Cookie?
The classic spiced cookie. Originally from Belgium, these cookies have gained popularity worldwide, especially as the base for cookie butter products like the one at Trader Joe’s.
Trader Joe’s also sells the actual cookies, and here’s how they describe them: ‘Speculoos is a traditional European cookie commonly served in bistros and cafes. These thin, crispy, cinnamon-y cookies are made in Belgium and enjoyed as the perfect compliment to a cup of coffee, a glass of milk or crumbled atop ice cream. Delicious!’
But the important question is: Are Speculoos Cookies gluten free? Let’s find out. Related: Are Biscoff Cookies Gluten Free?
This article was last updated with new information on: May 10, 2025
Are Speculoos Cookies Gluten Free?
NO
No, traditional Speculoos Cookies are not gluten-free. They are typically made with wheat flour, making them unsafe for those with gluten intolerance, wheat allergies, or Celiac Disease. While some brands may offer gluten free versions, the classic Speculoos recipe contains wheat. And the classic brands like Lotus Biscoff, etc. all contain wheat.
However, we do have some good news for you!
Are there gluten free Speculoos Cookies out there? YES!
Yes there are gluten free Speculoos cookies out there on the market, and there are many places you can order. We found a bunch of types on Amazon, Walmart, and direct from some brands.
While doing research for this article, we found two popular brands that make Gluten Free Speculoos Cookies!
Photo: ChocZero website
Speculoos Cookies Ingredients
Here are the typical ingredients in a traditional, classic Speculoos cookie from Belgium.
Ingredients of Traditional Speculoos Cookies:
- Wheat flour
- Sugar
- Vegetable oils (such as palm or canola)
- Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, etc.)
- Brown sugar
- Baking soda
Allergens & Warnings:
CONTAINS WHEAT.
MAY CONTAIN TRACES OF OTHER ALLERGENS.
Traditional Speculoos Cookie Nutrition Facts
Traditional Speculoos Cookie per 2tbsp (30g) nutritional facts. This serving contains:
- Energy: 160 calories
- Fat: 8g (Saturated Fats: 2g, Trans Fat: 0g)
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g (Sugars: 10g, Dietary Fiber: 0g)
- Sodium: 70mg
Trader Joe’s Speculoos Cookies – Nutrition Facts (per 30g serving)
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugars: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
Source: https://www.traderjoes.com/home/products/pdp/speculoos-cookies-050236
History of Speculoos Cookies
Read more about the history of these interesting cookies from The Brussels Times here: https://www.brusselstimes.com/851180/the-story-of-speculoos-the-belgian-biscuit-that-united-a-nation
