Typical Catalan desserts beyond Crema Catalana

If there is one thing that characterizes Catalonia, apart from its culture, architecture, and picture-postcard landscapes, it is its desserts. From simple sweets to creations that look like something out of a fairy tale, Catalan pastries have that special touch that makes you want to try everything. In this blog, we're going to take a quick tour of some of the most typical desserts, the ones you can't miss if you visit the region or simply want to treat yourself to something sweet.

Chuchos or Xuixos

If you're passing through Gerona, you definitely have to try one of its famous chuchos. Traditionally, it consists of fried puff pastry filled with custard, although now you can find vanilla cream, chocolate, and even jam fillings. To top it off, a little powdered sugar is sprinkled on top.

Braç de gitano

Every child's dream snack after school. Literally translated as " gypsy's arm," it is a cylindrical sponge cake filled with chocolate, cream, whipped cream, or truffle. Then, depending on the maker, it is decorated with melted chocolate, powdered sugar, or whipped cream. The result is a sweet, tasty, and fluffy snack that anyone would love.

Catànies

This dessert could be described as the Catalan Ferrero Rocher. It is typical of Villafranca del Penedès and has a rich toasted almond inside, covered in a paste made from almonds, hazelnuts, and milk, and finally coated in cocoa or dark chocolate. They are perfect with coffee or as a treat at any time of day. Each bite is a combination of textures and flavors that will make you want to come back for more. A layered delicacy worth tasting.

Mel i mató

Of all the desserts, this is arguably the simplest, but that doesn't mean it's the least tasty. It's a combination of fresh cheese with honey and, if we want to get fancy, decorated with chopped walnuts to give the appetizer a crunchy touch. A cheese known as "mató" is usually used, which has a creamier consistency.

If you like sweet and savory combinations, you will love this dessert.

Cocas

Cocas are like the weather: they change according to the season and the occasion. They are mainly eaten during festivities such as San Juan or San Antonio, and can be sweet or savory, open or closed, with fruit, cream, vegetables, or cold cuts. Each region has its own version, so there is always a new one to try!

Panellets

If there's one dessert that screams "autumn and All Saints' Day" in Catalonia, it's panellets. These are sweet balls made mainly from marzipan, which you can find covered with different ingredients, such as pine nuts, grated coconut, almonds, or chocolate, and baked until lightly browned. They're tiny, but their flavor fills you with tradition and family memories. They are perfect for finishing off a meal, and we recommend accompanying them with a good coffee.

Catalonia has a wide variety of desserts, ranging from the simplest to the most elaborate, but they all have one thing in common: a touch of love and tradition that can be tasted in every bite. So, if you ever find yourself in the region, don't just stick to tapas and the scenery; let yourself be tempted by the sweets and get ready for a little gastronomic adventure that your palate will never forget.