Spanish "pastelerias" or pastry shops are truly incredible and it seems that there is one on every corner in Spain. Passing by, you'll see a variety of beautiful, mouth-watering, hand-made pastries. Combined with the aroma as you walk by, it is hard not to step in for a closer look and taste. In addition to fancy pastries, there are many classic or traditional Spanish desserts, so this list contains the most beloved by Spaniards and visitors alike.
Turrón - Spanish Almond Candy
Lisa Sierra
Turrón is a very old, traditional sweet of Moorish (Arabic) origin. This Spanish Almond Candy or Nougat is a traditional Christmas treat in Spain. Made primarily from almonds and honey, it comes in a wide variety of flavors and textures.
Mantecados - Traditional Spanish Crumble Cakes
Lisa Sierra
Say "mantecados" to a Spaniard and watch their eyes widen remembering those rich crumbly cookies they eat at Christmas. They are a real favorite. And, no wonder - they are so soft, they will literally melt in your mouth. Light, with a delicate anise flavor, words do not do them justice. You'll have to make them to see why they are a Spanish favorite and why no Spanish home is without "mantecados" at Christmas!
Polvorones - Almond Cookies
Lisa Sierra
Rich and crumbly, these traditional "polvorones" are a delicious cookie, especially popular at during the Christmas season. As the name implies, they are "dusty" - very rich and practically melt in your mouth!
Flan - Custard with Caramel Sauce and More
Lisa Sierra
The classic flan is vanilla egg custard, topped with caramel sauce. It is one of the most popular desserts, served everywhere in Spain. Although vanilla is the classic or traditional flavor, we have recipes for Flan de Fresas - Strawberry Flan, Flan de Naranja - Orange Flan, Spanish Honey Flan with Dried Plum & Brandy Topping and Easy Coffee Flan - Flan de Cafe.
Catalan Cream - Crema Catalana in a Step-by-Step
Lisa Sierra
"Crema Catalana" or Catalan Cream is the Spanish version of the creamy and delicate French dessert, crème brulée. It is a good dessert for Spring, since it's also called "Crema de Sant Josep," or St. Joseph's Cream, traditionally prepared on March 19th, St. Joseph's Day. St. Joseph's Day is the Spanish equivalent of Father's Day in the USA. Try this EASY step-by-step Spanish dessert recipe!
How to Make Churros - Spanish Fritters
Lisa Sierra
"Churros" are fritters that look like big French fries, but taste nothing like one. The best way to explain them is to say that they are the Spanish equivalent of doughnuts. Instead of a ring like a doughnut, "churros" are long and straight and usually have ridges. They are cut into lengths and topped with sugar or honey. Served with thick hot chocolate, they are definitely a favorite late-night Spanish dessert or even breakfast!
Bunuelos de Viento Recipe - Light-as-Air Spanish Fritters
Lisa Sierra (c) 2009 Licensed to About.com Inc.
Light and fluffy and melt in your mouth, Spanish "bunuelos" or fritters are perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert. They are lightly fried, and dusted with powdered sugar and/or filled with pastry cream, egg custard or marmalade.
Spanish Hazelnut Custard - Natillas de Avellanas
Lisa Sierra (c) 2009 Licensed to About.com
Spanish custard, called “natillas” is one of the foods that make many Spanish adults recall their childhood fondly. Our “natillas” recipe makes a smooth, rich custard, flavored with brandy and hazelnuts, which is wonderful eaten while still warm.
