Portugal is a paradise for those with a love for sweets! The country’s desserts are celebrated for their intense flavors, the utilization of age-old ingredients, and a general deliciousness embodying Portuguese culinary customs. Food is truly valued here, and desserts are no exception. You’ll find amazing Pastelarias (pastry shops) and padarias (bakeries) everywhere, offering the most tempting treats imaginable.
Eager to discover Portugal’s most celebrated sweets? Journey with us as we uncover a selection of delightful examples. From traditional pastries to creative adaptations of favorite desserts from other countries, Portugal presents endless options. From delicate cakes to creamy puddings and irresistible pies, there’s a treat for every palate. So, grab your utensils and dive into the 12 most beloved Portuguese desserts.
Arroz doce (Rice Pudding)
A universally cherished dessert, rice pudding appears in various forms worldwide. Portugal’s version holds a special place at family gatherings and festive occasions. Rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon form the base of this comforting treat, with each family adding its own unique touch using ingredients like vanilla, lemon zest, or even egg for extra richness. Elegantly decorated with patterned cinnamon, it’s a true visual delight.
Pudim de Ovos
“Pudim de Ovos,” Portugal’s take on egg pudding is a beloved dessert found on restaurant menus and at family celebrations. Indulge your senses with its smooth texture, with a caramel flavor, this one will keep you wanting more.
Aletria
A traditional dessert gracing many a Portuguese Christmas table, Aletria is a year-round indulgence. Crafted from vermicelli pasta (“angel hair” pasta), milk, sugar, egg yolks, cinnamon, and lemon or orange zest, this satisfying dessert is garnished with cinnamon, similar to rice pudding. It’s an enduring symbol of Portuguese dessert recipes.
Rabanadas
Delight in the Portuguese interpretation of French toast. Rabanadas feature bread slices steeped in a luscious blend of milk and eggs, then fried to golden perfection and liberally dusted with cinnamon and sugar. These sweet treasures, traditionally enjoyed during Christmas, capture the heart of holiday indulgence.
Baba de Camelo
Bearing a whimsical name (Baba de Camelo, translating to “camel’s drool”), this Portuguese dessert is ideal for those spontaneous sweet cravings. With remarkable simplicity, it promises to impress. Whisk egg whites to stiff peaks, then combine strained yolks with condensed milk and gently fold in the egg whites. Chill, and voila! This effortless cold dessert is a crowd-pleaser and a go-to recipe for moments when time is of the essence.
Leite creme
Leite creme, Portugal’s rendition of “créme brulée,” is cooked on the stovetop. It’s a decadent custard dessert crowned with a caramelized sugar crust, often enhanced with hints of vanilla or lemon.
Natas do Céu
Fittingly named “Cream from Heaven,” this layered dessert is pure bliss. A velvety egg custard graces the top layer, followed by a mixture of cream, egg whites, and sugar. The base consists of a delicate crumble of shredded Maria biscuits. Every spoonful is a mouthful of pure joy!
Bolo de Bolacha
The iconic Maria biscuits take center stage in another celebrated Portuguese dessert, Bolo de Bolacha. This chilled, cake-like creation boasts regional variations, with each cook adding their personal flourish, like cream or condensed milk. The traditional method involves soaking biscuits in strong black coffee, then stacking them with layers of buttercream made from sugar, butter, and more coffee.
Bola de Berlim
If you’ve strolled along a Portuguese beach, especially in the Algarve, you’ve likely encountered vendors peddling “Bolas de Berlim.” These fried pastries, resembling doughnuts in texture and taste, can be enjoyed simply dusted with sugar or filled with the ubiquitous egg cream found in many Portuguese desserts. There’s no better treat after a sun-kissed day than this sweet doughnut. Today, you can discover inventive flavors like chocolate or carob cream-filled Bolas de Berlim.
Pão de Deus
With a name translating to “God’s Bread,” this Portuguese dessert is truly heavenly. The appropriately sized, moist brioche-like roll of dough is crowned with an addictive coconut crumble. Easily found in most “pastelarias,” it’s the perfect companion to a great cup of coffee..
Toucinho do Céu
Speaking of heavenly desserts, Toucinho do Céu, literally “Bacon from Heaven,” is a rich almond cake crafted with pork lard, hence the curious name. Created by the nuns of the Santa Clara Convent in northern Portugal, it’s now among the country’s most beloved desserts. Don’t let the name deter you; its flavors are simply divine!
Pastéis de Belém/Pastéis de Nata
Perhaps Portugal’s most iconic dessert, the Pastel de Nata or Pastel de Belém is a custard tart masterpiece, featuring crisp, flaky pastry crust and a velvety custard filling. This is a must when you’re looking to try the local snacks. The renowned Lisbon store safeguards the secret recipe for these tiny custard pies. However, numerous pastry shops now present their own renditions, proudly offering “Pastéis de Nata.”
