In a country where culinary artistry is a global sensation, let’s ditch the maps and let our taste buds be our guide. From iconic churro stops to quaint bakeries steeped in history, the world of Spanish desserts is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.
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Churros
Most-Searched Recipe on the Internet
Chocolatería San Ginés – Madrid
A churro is a delightful fried dough dessert with Spanish and Portuguese origins, made by piping choux pastry dough into hot oil. Its exact origin is uncertain, with theories suggesting influence from China or its creation by Spanish shepherds for portability. The dough is fried until crunchy, resulting in a ridged, prism-shaped treat.
There is a place in sunny Madrid that is famous for its legendary churros – The Chocolatería San Ginés, located at Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5, in central Madrid. Found in a cozy passageway near San Ginés church, close to Puerta del Sol, this famous café has been loved since 1894. If you have just arrived and are ready to start your gastronomic journey, take advantage of the GetTransfer service – it will take you to your destination for only 38 euros.
The star of the show is the hot chocolate, served in the traditional Spanish way – thick, dark, and strong. It’s a smooth and rich drink to enjoy. Alongside the chocolate, you can have churros, which are like crispy, straight donuts. They come hot and are perfect for dipping into the delicious chocolate. A set of chocolate and churros goes for 3,7 EUR.
Buñuelo
Christmastime Treat and Common Street Food
La Antigua Pastelería del Pozo – Madrid
Buñuelos are popular fried pastries from Spain, enjoyed worldwide as a dessert or snack during celebrations. Made with basic ingredients like flour, water, butter, and sugar, they have a light and delicious texture.
These Spanish doughnuts are a perfect blend of tradition and flavor, showcasing the expertise that goes into making them. La Mallorquina takes pride in making Rosquillas the old-fashioned way. The bakers pay attention to every detail, ensuring that each Rosquilla maintains the authentic taste that has made them a favorite over the years.These Rosquillas aren’t just your standard doughnuts. La Mallorquina offers them in various flavors – from the classic sugary ones to those with a hint of citrus or anise. It’s a mix of tradition and innovation that caters to different tastes.
Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea from the adjoining tea room, and you’ll find the perfect balance of tradition and modern indulgence.
Membrillo
Sweet Quince Paste
Santa Teresa - Madrid
Membrillo, a renowned Spanish sweet preserve, is crafted from the delectable quince fruit, epitomizing the essence of Spanish culinary delight. This delicacy holds a special place in Spain, often accompanying the beloved Manchego cheese. Crafted with only three ingredients, making membrillo is a straightforward and rewarding culinary venture.
The Salamanca neighborhood offers many exclusive possibilities where gastronomy and fashion merge. An elegant environment where Santa Teresa Shop could not be missing: a vintage air that fills every corner, every nook and cranny. A design that naturally integrates two different spaces: the sales area and the tasting area.
By far, this is the best place to try Membrillo. Santa Teresa has mastered the art of presenting the finest Membrillo, offering a unique opportunity to indulge in this quintessential Spanish dessert.
The star of the show is the hot chocolate, served in the traditional Spanish way – thick, dark, and strong. It’s a smooth and rich drink to enjoy. Alongside the chocolate, you can have churros, which are like crispy, straight donuts. They come hot and are perfect for dipping into the delicious chocolate. A set of chocolate and churros goes for 3,7 EUR.
Horchata
Valencia's Ancient Refresher
Horchatería Santa Catalina - Valencia
Horchata is a sweet and refreshing drink that’s popular in Spain. It’s made from a blend of ground tiger nuts, water, and sugar. The mixture is strained to create a smooth, creamy beverage with a subtle nutty flavor and hints of cinnamon and vanilla. Horchata is typically served cold over ice and enjoyed as a refreshing treat on a warm day.
The best place to taste is Horchatería Santa Catalina in Valencia. It is a legendary café with colorful decorations. They have a variety of treats, like fluffy croissants and crispy churros. You can enjoy them with a cold glass of their famous horchata, served in traditional ceramic jugs. It’s a perfect spot to relax and indulge in tasty treats with friends or family.
Modern Trends
Unique Flavor and Original Design
Juliet, Valencia
Valencia is also home to a number of innovative bakeries that contribute to the city’s culinary scene. These bakeries stand out for their approach, bringing bold ideas to life and experimenting with a variety of flavor combinations.
Juliet in Valencia has the best cookies ever, warm, with a gooey center and lots of different flavors. The owner bakes and runs the place herself. It is a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
Arroz con Leche
One of the Oldest Desserts in Spain
El Llar de Viri – San Roman
Arroz con Leche, also known as Spanish rice pudding, is a simple and comforting dessert featuring a delightful blend of warm cinnamon and fresh lemon flavors infused into creamy rice. This delectable treat serves as a perfect conclusion to any meal.
The charming town of San Roman is home to El Llar de Viri Café, known for its delicious culinary offerings. This cozy eatery has earned a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
One of the stars on El Llar de Viri’s menu is the renowned Arroz con Leche—a classic Spanish rice pudding. Imagine a bowl of creamy goodness, each spoonful filled with the richness of perfectly cooked rice, sweetened, and adorned with just the right hint of cinnamon.
Basque Cheesecake
Global Phenomenon
Joncake – Barcelona
The Spanish Basque cheesecake has gained global acclaim for its delectable simplicity and distinctive characteristics. Originating in the coastal town of San Sebastian, this dessert showcases a harmonious blend of cream, sugar, and eggs. What sets it apart from its counterparts is its intentional omission of a crust, allowing the creamy interior to shine.The contrast between the creamy interior and the slightly caramelized exterior creates a culinary experience that has captivated the taste buds of dessert enthusiasts worldwide
Among the many bakeries, Joncake’s focus on cheesecakes stands out. The star of the show is undoubtedly their Spanish cheesecake. With a reputation that precedes it, this dessert promises a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. Imagine a velvety-smooth, creamy cheesecake, delicately baked to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and richness
Enhance your culinary adventure with greater convenience – opt for seamless transfers through GetTransfer.com. Simplify your travel arrangements and immerse yourself in the charm of these hidden gems. Enjoy your exploration to the fullest!
FAQ
Do I need to rent a car in Spain?
Spain has an extensive and efficient railway network operated by Renfe. High-speed trains (AVE) connect major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia, making intercity travel fast and convenient. You can use GetTransfer for transfers to and from the train station.
Do I have to tip in Spain?
In Spain, tipping is not obligatory, but it is appreciated as a gesture of satisfaction with the service.
Do the shops/cafes really close for siesta?
Some smaller, family-owned shops and cafes, particularly in rural areas or smaller towns, may still observe a siesta break from 2 to 5 pm. In major cities like Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia, many businesses tend to remain open throughout the day.
