Sweet Treats You Have to Try in Spain

From churros con chocolate in Madrid to crema catalana in Barcelona, a treat lover's guide to Spain.

Spain doesn't get enough credit for its desserts. Everyone talks about the food, the tapas, the wine. But the sweet side of Spain is just as good, and it's everywhere if you know where to look. I spent time in Madrid, Barcelona, Granada, and Sevilla this year, eating my way through all of them.

Churros con chocolate in Madrid

You can't talk about Spanish desserts without starting here. Madrid's churrerias serve thin, crispy churros alongside a cup of thick hot chocolate that's more like warm pudding than a drink. The move is to dip, not dunk. San Gines is the famous one, but honestly some of the smaller neighborhood spots are just as good.

Crema catalana in Barcelona

Think creme brulee but with citrus and cinnamon. Barcelona claims this as their own and they're right to. The burnt sugar top should crack cleanly when you tap it with your spoon. The custard underneath is lighter than its French cousin and the citrus gives it something extra.

Piononos in Granada

These tiny cylindrical pastries are a Granada specialty and you probably won't find them anywhere else. They're made from a thin sponge cake soaked in syrup, rolled, and topped with toasted cream. They're small enough to eat in two bites and sweet enough that two is plenty. Don't leave Granada without trying them.

Torrijas in Sevilla

Spain's version of French toast, traditionally eaten during Semana Santa but available year-round in Sevilla. Thick bread soaked in milk and honey, fried, and dusted with cinnamon. The best ones have a crispy caramelized exterior and a custardy, almost pudding-like center. They're best eaten warm with a cortado on the side.