Where better to begin our journey through Portugal’s dessert scene than with pastéis de nata – petite Portuguese egg custard tarts that have become entwined with the country. Created in the early 18th century by Catholic monks within Lisbon’s Jerónimos Monastery, these small pastries came into being almost by accident.
Try it: Today, the most famous pastéis de nata can be found in the historic Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon’s Belém district. Here, they’re dusted with cinnamon and served straight from the oven in the traditional way, but other pastelarias have their own version, often involving icing sugar, nuts and dried fruit.
If you head to any of the beaches near Porto or Lisbon, then you will more than likely stumble upon a vendor selling bola de berlim. Similar in appearance to the doughnuts you can find at home, the origins of these custard doughnuts actually stems from Germany, where they are called Berliner Pfankuchen.
Given Portugal’s love for all things sweet, theirs are much bigger and are usually filled with yellow custard cream. Almost as popular as pastéis de nata, you can find bola de berlim in every pastelaria in the country.
Try it: Serrana Pastelaria is one of the most beloved pastry shops in Porto, serving up some of the best bola de berlim that can be found in the country.
If you are looking for a hearty breakfast option to get you through a day of exploring, pão de deus could be perfect for you. Similar to brioche, this is a soft bread roll that has been slightly sweetened with a coconut topping, best when just out of the oven.
Try it: Tucked away in the historic heart of Lisbon, Padaria Ribeira is a traditional padaria that is a firm favourite among locals, who venture here regularly to get their daily coffee and pão de deus.
This delightful dessert comes from Guimarães in northern Portugal and is one of the country’s oldest and most beloved recipes. A literal translation of this dish would be ‘bacon from heaven’, because its unique recipe calls for pork lard in the cake mixture.
Toucinho do céu is known for its almond taste and moist sponge, usually being served alongside local cream or custard. The Portuguese are so fond of this dessert that it is often served during special events.
Try it: Indulge in toucinho do céu after an authentic meal at A Casa do Bacalhau, one of the best traditional Portuguese restaurants in Lisbon.
The people of Portugal really do love rich, creamy sweets, so it makes sense that pudim flan is a decadent, caramel-topped pudding and a firm favourite in restaurants up and down the country. This dessert is often served at family events and during special occasions, and is almost always accompanied by a good measure of Port wine.
Try it: Lisbon’s Adega Dantas serves an excellent pudim flan, and you can enjoy the classic sounds of fado while you dine there.