You cannot talk about Dutch pastries without talking about the vanilla slice—better known as the Tompouce. It is the most iconic, delightfully messy pastry in the country.

Two layers of shatteringly crisp puff pastry act as a sandwich for a massive, thick layer of creamy, yellow vanilla custard. The top is finished with a smooth, sweet icing.

There is a national debate in Holland on how to eat this. Do you bite right in and let the cream squish out? Do you take the top off and eat it separately? The choice is yours. Have a napkin ready.