What’s the best way to explore a place? Through its desserts, of course! Europe is a paradise for those with a sweet tooth, offering everything from delicate pastries to rich, chocolatey delights - each with a story as delicious as its flavour. So why just explore with your eyes when you can indulge with your taste buds? Get ready to eat your way through Europe, one irresistible treat at a time!
Belgian Waffles, Belgium
Bigger squares, deeper pockets and a lighter, crispier texture - Belgian waffles aren’t just breakfast, they’re an experience! Unlike their American cousins, these waffles are designed to hold even more delicious toppings, from fluffy whipped cream and rich chocolate spread to fresh fruit, syrup or a generous scoop of ice cream. Belgian waffles made their grand entrance onto the world stage at Expo 58 in Brussels and later became a sensation at the 1964 New York World’s Fair! Don’t forget to try both Brussels waffles, which are extra airy with deep pockets perfect for holding syrupy goodness, and Liège waffles, which are sweeter, denser and packed with caramelised pearl sugar for a delightful crunch.
Churros, Spain
Golden, crispy and dusted with sugar, churros are Spain’s most irresistible treat - especially when paired with a cup of rich, velvety hot chocolate. This indulgent duo dates back centuries, with Spanish explorer Hernán Cortés introducing cacao to Europe after his travels to the Americas. The result? A match made in dessert heaven! Dip your warm churro into thick, molten chocolate and prepare for pure bliss - one bite at a time.
Poffertjes, Netherlands
What happens when history, tradition and a little culinary magic come together? You get poffertjes - tiny, fluffy Dutch pancakes that are impossible to resist! Originally crafted by Catholic priests searching for a tastier Communion bread, these golden bites have since taken over the Netherlands as a favourite sweet treat. Made from buckwheat and yeast, they’re cooked in special poffertjes irons (think mini waffle pans) until perfectly puffed. Dusted with powdered sugar, slathered in butter or drizzled with syrup, they’re pure joy on a plate. Feeling adventurous? Try them with Dutch advocaat liqueur or a savoury Gouda twist. One thing’s for sure - once you start, you won’t stop at just one!
Baklava, Greece and Turkey
Layer upon layer of delicate, flaky filo pastry, packed with crunchy nuts and drenched in syrup or honey - baklava is the ultimate sweet indulgence. Once reserved for special occasions due to the skill required to perfect its paper-thin layers and the cost of ingredients like honey, sugar and nuts, baklava has since become a beloved dessert across Greece and Turkey. Today, regional variations add a unique twist, with places like Gaziantep in Turkey famous for their pistachio-filled version. Just one taste and you'll understand why it's been cherished for centuries!
Pastel de Nata, Portugal
Also known as pastel de Belém, the pastel de nata is Portugal’s most iconic sweet treat - and it all started with monks and laundry! Back in the day, egg whites were used to starch clothes, leaving monks with a surplus of yolks. Their delicious solution? A rich, velvety custard baked into a crisp, flaky pastry. Today, these golden delights can be found all over Portugal, often enjoyed with a strong coffee for breakfast. But for the most authentic bite, head to the Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon, where the original recipe is a closely guarded secret - only six people in the world know it!
Sachertorte, Austria
This legendary Viennese chocolate cake has a history as rich as its flavour! In 1832, a 16-year-old apprentice named Franz Sacher was thrust into the spotlight when Prince Klemens von Metternich requested a special dessert - only for the court's pastry chef to fall ill. Rising to the challenge, young Sacher created what would become Austria’s most famous cake. Years later, his son perfected the recipe, making it even more rich. The result? A dense, decadent chocolate cake with a delicate layer of apricot jam beneath a glossy chocolate glaze - an absolute must-try in Vienna!
Cannolo, Italy
A visit to Sicily is a visit to the birthplace of the beloved cannolo! If you can’t stop at just one (and who could blame you?), remember that the plural is cannoli. Now found across mainland Italy – where they are known as cannolo siciliano - not only will you satisfy your sweet tooth, but you’ll impress the locals by speaking like one! These crisp, golden pastry shells are filled with a luscious ricotta-based cream, making every bite an irresistible taste of Sicily.
So why just dream about these sweet delights when you can taste them for yourself? Reach out to your local
Travellers Choice agent and start planning your own delicious journey through Europe today!
