Sweet Street Treats: Exploring Portugal’s Love Affair with Desserts

Portugal is a paradise for those with a sweet tooth, offering a wide range of desserts that capture the country’s love for indulgent flavours & rich culinary traditions. From the iconic Bolas de Berlim to the irresistible Farturas, Portuguese street sweets are a must try for anyone visiting the country. This guide takes you through some of the most popular street treats, the history behind them, and where to find these sugary delights.

Bolas de Berlim: A Portuguese Doughnut Delight

One of the most famous Portuguese street sweets is the Bola de Berlim, a spin on the German Berliner doughnut. Unlike the traditional Berliner, Portugal’s version is often split and generously filled with doce de ovos (a creamy egg yolk custard). With its soft dough, sugary coating & custard filling, it’s no wonder this treat is a favourite at beachside cafes and bakeries across Portugal.

You’ll find Bolas de Berlim sold by vendors on the beach, in local markets, and at food stalls. It’s a perfect snack to enjoy while walking along the sunny streets of Lisbon or Porto.

Farturas: Portugal’s Take on Churros

Similar to Spanish churros but with their own unique twist, Farturas are a popular fairground and street food treat in Portugal. Made from a simple dough that’s deep-fried and dusted with sugar and cinnamon, Farturas are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.

You’ll often see Farturas being prepared fresh at food stalls, their sweet aroma filling the air. Whether enjoyed plain or dipped in chocolate sauce, these fried treats are a comforting & satisfying indulgence.

Pão de Ló: A Traditional Sponge Cake

While not exclusively a street food, Pão de Ló is a Portuguese classic that’s sometimes sold in markets and food fairs. This sponge cake, made with eggs, sugar, and flour, is light, airy, and slightly moist. Variations exist across the country, with some versions having a gooey centre for added richness.

A slice of Pão de Ló pairs wonderfully with a strong coffee, making it a perfect afternoon treat.

Travesseiros: Sintra’s Signature Pastry

If you’re exploring the town of Sintra, you’ll likely come across Travesseiros, a sweet pastry filled with almond and egg cream. These pillow-shaped treats are flaky, buttery, and packed with flavour. Though they are mostly associated with bakeries, you can occasionally find them at food markets or street fairs.

Travesseiros are best enjoyed fresh and warm, making them an irresistible street-side snack.

Queijadas: Small but Mighty Cheesecakes

Another gem from Sintra is the Queijada, a small cheesecake made with fresh cheese, sugar, eggs, and flour. These bite-sized treats have a slightly chewy texture and a caramelised top. They’re often sold in packs, making them easy to carry and share (if you’re feeling generous!).

Queijadas are a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavours, perfect for a quick nibble on the go.

Malasadas: A Fried Sweet with Global Roots

Though originally from the Azores, Malasadas have made their way to street food stalls across mainland Portugal. These fried doughnuts are soft, airy, and coated in sugar. They’re especially popular during Carnival celebrations but can be found year-round in some areas.

Their simplicity and comforting flavour make Malasadas a hit with locals and tourists alike.

Where to Find Portugal’s Sweet Treats

Portuguese street sweets can be found in various settings, from bustling city streets to quiet seaside towns. Look out for:

• Food Markets: Markets like Mercado da Ribeira in Lisbon often have stalls selling fresh desserts.
• Fairs and Festivals: Events such as local fairs or Carnival celebrations are great for finding Farturas and other treats.
• Beach Vendors: On Portugal’s sunny coasts, vendors selling Bolas de Berlim are a common sight.

FAQ: Portuguese Street Sweets

1. What are the most popular Portuguese street desserts? Some of the most popular ones include Bolas de Berlim, Farturas, Travesseiros, Queijadas, and Pão de Ló.
2. Are Portuguese desserts very sweet? Yes, many Portuguese desserts are quite sweet, as they often use sugar and egg yolks in their recipes. However, they’re perfectly balanced with rich and comforting flavours.
3. Where can I find street sweets in Portugal? You can find them at food markets, festivals, beachside stalls, and local fairs. Lisbon and Porto are especially good cities for exploring street food.
4. Can I try these desserts outside Portugal? Some Portuguese bakeries abroad sell popular sweets like Bolas de Berlim and Queijadas, but the freshest and most authentic versions are found in Portugal.
5. Are there vegan options for Portuguese street sweets? Traditional recipes often use eggs and dairy, but some modern bakeries and stalls may offer vegan versions. It’s best to check with the vendor.

Portugal’s street sweets are a delicious way to experience the country’s culinary heritage. From the creamy Bolas de Berlim to the crispy Farturas, every bite tells a story of tradition, creativity, and love for desserts. So, whether you’re strolling through Lisbon’s streets or enjoying a sunny day at the beach, don’t miss the chance to indulge in these delightful treats.