A method for producing zeolite or zeotype crystals with a hierarchical pore system having both pores with average diameter between 0.3-2 nm and pores with an average diameter size larger than 4 nm in diameter, comprising the steps of applying a carbohydrate or a carbohydrate solution onto a zeolite precursor material or into a zeolite precursor composition, partly or fully decomposing the carbohydrate, crystallizing the zeolite, removing the partly or fully decomposed carbohydrate by calcination or combustion.