An inconsistent run since finishing third at the World Cup, with Saturday's 1-1 draw with Turkey in Euro 2016 qualifying their latest disappointment, had Dutch fans longing for last year and its 5-1 drubbing of the same opponents in Salvador.
However, two goals in the space of three first-half minutes gave Netherlands a second successive win over Spain to help restore some confidence.
Having snatched a draw in stoppage time against Turkey, Hiddink's side - which showed five changes - seemed to take momentum forward and started in superb fashion.
Memphis Depay brought the first save out of David de Gea with a curling effort from the edge of the penalty area, but the Manchester United goalkeeper could do nothing about De Vrij's opener, the Lazio defender finding space in the area to guide home Wesley Sneijder's inviting cross after 13 minutes, his third international goal.
Spain – who fielded nine new players from Friday's qualifying win over Ukraine – had flattered to deceive for much of the first half and they found Kenneth Vermeer in fine form when they did pose a threat.
Netherlands made another swift start after the break and should have been further ahead after 53 minutes, but Bruno Martins Indi inexplicably failed to convert Sneijder's cross from three yards out.
Late pressure from the visitors – including a Cesc Fabregas effort - failed to produce the desired effect and Netherlands clung on to what could be a crucial win for Hiddink's future.
