What are the ingredients in Dutch licorice?

January 1, 2026 •

3 min read

The Netherlands, with its more than 75 varieties, has a deep-rooted passion for licorice, known as 'drop,' which often distinguishes itself sharply from other black licorice candies. Understanding what are the ingredients in Dutch licorice reveals why its flavor profile is so intense, varied, and, for many, an acquired taste.

Quick Summary

Dutch licorice typically features real licorice root extract, a binder like modified starch or gelatin, and sweeteners like molasses or glucose syrup. Salty versions gain their distinct flavor from ammonium chloride (salmiak salt), while sweet varieties use honey or sugar.

Key Points

Licorice Root Extract: Dutch licorice is flavored with authentic Glycyrrhiza glabra extract, unlike many US candies that use anise oil.
Ammonium Chloride: The signature salty, tangy, and pungent flavor of 'zoute drop' (salty licorice) comes from the addition of ammonium chloride, or salmiak salt.
Modified Starches: To achieve a wide range of textures from hard to soft, Dutch licorice uses binding agents like modified starches from sources like potato or wheat.
Variety of Sweeteners: Depending on the type, sweeteners include sugar, glucose syrup, and molasses, with honey specifically used in 'honingdrop'.
Molasses for Color and Flavor: Cane sugar molasses is a common ingredient that contributes to the rich, dark color and complex flavor profile.
Diverse Additives: Some artisanal or specialty Dutch licorice includes herbal extracts (sage, chamomile) or different glazing agents like coconut oil.

The Fundamental Building Blocks of Dutch Licorice

At its core, all Dutch licorice, whether sweet or salty, relies on a few key components that differentiate it from other confections. The authenticity of its rich, complex flavor comes from a reliance on the actual licorice plant extract, rather than artificial substitutes. This is combined with various binders and sweeteners to create the vast array of textures and tastes the Dutch enjoy.

The All-Important Licorice Root Extract

Unlike many American counterparts that use anise oil for a similar flavor profile, Dutch licorice is flavored with extract from the licorice plant, Glycyrrhiza glabra. This extract imparts an earthy, slightly sweet, and complex bitter flavor that anise alone cannot replicate. The amount and quality of this extract can significantly influence the final taste of the drop.

Sweeteners and Syrups

To balance the powerful licorice flavor, various sweeteners are used. Sugar and glucose syrup form the foundation of most licorice recipes. For a richer, deeper flavor and color, many traditional recipes also incorporate molasses. In sweet varieties, additional honey may be added to provide a softer, smoother sweetness.

Binding and Texture Agents

The consistency of Dutch licorice, from soft and chewy to hard and firm, is controlled by binding agents. The most common are modified starches, often sourced from potato, wheat, or corn. Gelatin is also a frequent addition, especially for creating a softer, chewy texture, although some brands offer gelatin-free versions for vegetarians. Other gelling agents like gum arabic might also be used.

The Signature Ingredients of Salty Dutch Licorice

For many, the defining characteristic of Dutch licorice is its unapologetic saltiness. This isn't achieved with standard table salt but with a specific chemical compound.

The Power of Ammonium Chloride (Salmiak Salt)

The distinct, tangy, and tongue-tingling flavor of salty Dutch licorice comes from ammonium chloride, commonly known as salmiak salt. This unique additive is a key differentiator from most international licorice. The concentration of salmiak can range from mild to extremely potent, with 'dubbel zout' (double salt) varieties pushing the intensity to its maximum. Historically, salmiak was used medicinally as a cough remedy, and some Dutch people still believe in its throat-clearing properties.

Additives and Coatings

In some of the saltiest varieties, the candy is coated with an extra layer of salmiak powder to deliver an immediate and intense salty kick. Natural colorings like caramel (E150c) give the candy its characteristic dark brown or black appearance. A glazing agent, such as beeswax or coconut oil, is often applied to provide a shiny, non-sticky surface.

Comparison of Dutch and American Licorice Ingredients


Ingredient	Typical Dutch Licorice	Typical American Licorice	Notes
Primary Flavoring	Real licorice root extract	Anise extract	Provides a deeper, more authentic flavor in Dutch versions.
Salty Component	Ammonium chloride (salmiak salt)	Sodium chloride (table salt) or none	A signature feature of most Dutch 'drop'.
Sweeteners	Sugar, glucose syrup, molasses, and sometimes honey	Sugar, corn syrup	Dutch versions often have more complex sweetness from molasses.
Binder	Modified starch, gelatin, gum arabic	Wheat flour, gelatin, or starch	Dutch licorice comes in a wider range of textures from soft to hard.

The Versatility of Dutch Licorice Ingredients

Beyond the base formulation, Dutch licorice boasts an impressive variety due to additional ingredients and flavorings. Examples include:

Herbal Extracts: Some varieties incorporate herbal extracts like sage, chamomile, or gentian root for added aromatic complexity.
Honey: In 'honingdrop,' a significant percentage of honey is used to create a smoother, sweeter candy.
Vegetable Oils: Oils such as coconut or sunflower are sometimes used both as ingredients and for glazing.
Fructooligosaccharides: This prebiotic fiber can be used as a sweetener in some recipes.

Conclusion

The question of what are the ingredients in Dutch licorice reveals a fascinating world of confectionery far removed from the mass-produced licorice found elsewhere. From the authentic and complex licorice root extract to the signature tangy salmiak salt, the ingredients are a testament to a unique culinary tradition. Whether you prefer the mellow honey-sweetened varieties or the challenging double-salt drop, the distinct and diverse ingredients list is what truly sets Dutch licorice apart and explains why it holds such a special place in the country's culture. A true Dutch 'drop' is more than just candy; it's a centuries-old tradition encapsulated in a simple black sweet.

For more general information on licorice confectionery, you can consult Wikipedia's article on the subject.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Dutch licorice comes in a wide variety of flavors, including sweet ('zoete drop'), salty ('zoute drop'), and even double salty ('dubbel zoute drop').

Salmiak salt is the common name for ammonium chloride, the ingredient responsible for the distinctive tangy and salty flavor in many varieties of Dutch and Nordic licorice.

The primary difference is the flavoring agent. Dutch licorice uses real licorice root extract, which is complex and earthy, while most American licorice uses less expensive anise oil.

Many traditional Dutch licorices contain wheat or other starches as a binder, so they are not gluten-free. However, some specialty brands offer gluten-free versions made with other starches like corn or potato.

It depends on the recipe. Many types of licorice use gelatin as a binding agent, which is an animal product. However, gelatin-free and vegan versions, which use starch or gum arabic instead, are also widely available.

'Dubbel zoute drop' literally translates to 'double salty licorice.' It is an extra salty variety of Dutch licorice with a higher concentration of ammonium chloride, designed for those who enjoy a more intense, potent flavor.

The deep black or dark brown color comes from the combination of the licorice root extract and cane sugar molasses used during the manufacturing process.