Signature Dutch Letters

These Dutch Letters are what Jaarsma is known best for! Their famous almond paste filling is surrounded by puff pastry dough and topped with a light sugar coating. They’re shaped like an “S” for Sinterklaas, because they’re a traditional Christmastime treat.

The town of Pella, Iowa, is known as “America’s Dutch Treasure,” and Jaarsma Bakery has been a standout among its many Dutch-inspired shops, restaurants, and bakeries since 1898. This beloved local landmark, located on the square in the heart of town, was founded by Harmon Jaarsma, and today it’s run by his great‑great‑granddaughter Lisa and her husband Carl, who keep its legacy alive with recipes that have remained unchanged for more than 100 years.