Catalan and Spanish Desserts With Buena Vista Tapas Tour

As you enjoy the dishes of our tapas tour through Bodega Quimet, Bodega Neus, and Lluritu, be sure to save room for dessert. Each of these establishments offers a selection of traditional Catalan and Spanish sweets that perfectly complement their tapas, providing a delightful conclusion to your meal.

Bodega Quimet: A Traditional Sweet

At Bodega Quimet, the dessert menu is a celebration of traditional Catalan sweets, crafted with care and attention to detail.

Tarta de Santiago: A Cake with Pilgrimage Roots

History and Popularity: Tarta de Santiago, or St. James' Cake, has its origins in the Galician region of Spain and dates back to the Middle Ages. Named after St. James, the patron saint of Galicia, this almond cake became popular among pilgrims traveling the Camino de Santiago. The cake’s simple ingredients—almonds, sugar, eggs, and lemon zest—made it easy to prepare and store, making it a practical treat for long journeys.

Description: This cake is characterized by its moist texture and rich almond flavour, often dusted with powdered sugar and imprinted with the Saint James cross. Its popularity spread beyond Galicia, and it became a beloved dessert throughout Spain, including Catalonia. At Bodega Quimet, the Tarta de Santiago is a must-try, offering a sweet and nutty taste. Paired with a glass of sweet sherry or a cup of rich Spanish coffee, it provides a delightful end to the culinary experience.

Mel i Mató: A Taste of the Countryside

History and Popularity: Mel i Mató, meaning "honey and fresh cheese," is a traditional Catalan dessert that dates back to the Middle Ages. Originating in the rural areas of Catalonia, this dessert was a staple for shepherds who had access to fresh cheese from their herds. Mató is a type of unsalted fresh cheese made from cow or goat milk, and when drizzled with honey, it transforms into a simple yet elegant dessert.

Description: The fresh cheese has a light and creamy texture, which pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the honey and the crunch of the walnuts. This dessert highlights the quality of local ingredients and provides a refreshing end to your meal. Mel i Mató is not only delicious but also a representation of Catalonia’s agricultural heritage and its emphasis on fresh, natural flavours.

Bodega Neus: Traditional Catalan Sweets

Bodega Neus continues the tradition of offering classic Catalan desserts, each crafted to perfection.

Crema Catalana: A Custard with a Crunch

History and Popularity: Crema Catalana is one of the oldest known desserts in Europe, with recipes dating back to the 14th century. Often referred to as the Catalan version of crème brûlée, Crema Catalana differs in that it is traditionally flavoured with lemon zest and cinnamon rather than vanilla. This dessert has become a staple in Catalan cuisine and is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Description: Crema Catalana features a creamy custard topped with a caramelized sugar crust. The rich, velvety custard is balanced by the sweet, crunchy topping, creating a satisfying contrast in textures. At Bodega Neus, this dessert is a must-try, offering a taste of Catalonia’s rich culinary history. The process of caramelizing the sugar with a hot iron or torch adds an element of showmanship to this delightful dessert.

Panellets: A Sweet Tradition

History and Popularity: Panellets are small almond-based sweets that are traditionally prepared and enjoyed during the All Saints' Day celebrations (La Castanyada) in Catalonia. These confections date back to the 18th century and were initially used as offerings during religious ceremonies. Over time, they became a popular treat enjoyed by families during the autumn season.

Description: Panellets come in various flavours and are often coated in pine nuts, coconut, or cocoa. The main ingredient is marzipan, made from almonds and sugar, giving them a soft, chewy texture. The pine nut-coated panellets are the most traditional, offering a delightful crunch that complements the sweet almond paste. Enjoying panellets with a cup of coffee or a glass of sweet wine is a perfect way to end a meal at Bodega Neus.

Lluritu: A Modern Twist on Traditional Sweets

At Lluritu, the focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients extends to their dessert selection, which feature a blend of traditional Catalan sweets and modern interpretations.

Tarta de Queso: Cheesecake Reimagined

History and Popularity: Cheesecake has a long history, dating back to ancient Greece. The modern version, however, became popular in the 19th century. In Spain, the Tarta de Queso has been adapted to include local cheeses and flavours, creating a unique take on this classic dessert. Lluritu’s version uses high-quality local cheeses to create a rich, bold flavour profile.

Description: Lluritu’s Tarta de Queso is a creamy, luscious dessert served with a seasonal fruit compote. The rich, tangy flavour of the cheesecake pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the fruit, creating a balanced and indulgent dessert. This modern twist on a classic dessert showcases Lluritu’s commitment to using fresh, local ingredients in creative ways.

Crema Catalana: A Modern Classic

History and Popularity: Staying true to its Catalan roots, Lluritu also offers Crema Catalana, prepared with the same care and attention to detail as its main dishes. This dessert has maintained its popularity through centuries due to its simple yet decadent flavours.

Description: The creamy custard and caramelized sugar crust provide a satisfying finish, highlighting the rich culinary heritage of Catalonia. At Lluritu, the Crema Catalana is often accompanied by a touch of modern flair, such as a garnish of fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit coulis, enhancing both its presentation and flavour.

Sorbetes: A Refreshing Finish

History and Popularity: Sorbet has been enjoyed since ancient times, with early versions made from snow and fruit juices. In Catalonia, sorbets have become a popular dessert, especially during the warmer months, due to their refreshing qualities and vibrant flavours.

Description: Lluritu offers a selection of sorbets made with seasonal fruits. These refreshing sorbets are the perfect palate cleanser after a rich seafood meal, providing a burst of fruity flavour that is both light and satisfying. The sorbets at Lluritu are made with fresh, local fruits, ensuring a natural sweetness and vibrant taste.

Sweets From Catalonia

On the Buena Vista Tapas Tour, the journey through Catalan and Spanish cuisine is not complete without indulging in the delightful desserts offered at each stop. From the traditional Tarta de Santiago and Crema Catalana to modern twists like Tarta de Queso, these sweet treats provide a perfect ending to your culinary adventure.

Join us as we explore the flavours, history, and hospitality of Gracia’s Bodega Quimet, Bodega Neus, and Lluritu. Book your tapas tour today and discover the sweet side of Barcelona’s culinary landscape, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Your Sweet Tooth Awaits

Experience the best of Barcelona’s desserts with Buena Vista Tours Barcelona. Book your spot on our tapas tour and indulge in the rich taste of Catalan and Spanish sweets. Let’s explore the sweet traditions of Barcelona together. See you on the tour!