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Home » Easy Dessert Recipes

Portuguese Desserts

May 14, 2023 by Emily · 1 Comment

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From sweet pastries and breads to creamy custards, there are many delicious desserts that Portugal has to offer.

If you’re after something that’s delicious and different to your usually sweet treats, then you must give one of these scrumptious Portuguese desserts a go!

Portuguese rice pudding in a blue bowl, garnished with cinnamon.
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  • 27 Delicious and Easy Portuguese Dessert Recipes
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Desserts are always a treat, whatever they may be. And these Portuguese desserts are no exception.

Portugal has a wide selection of delicious desserts, from sweet pastries to creamy custards, that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

The Pastel de Nata is one of Portugal's most well-known sweets. This classic custard tart is distinguished by its buttery, flaky pastry and rich, creamy filling. The filling is flavored with a hint of lemon and cinnamon and is made from eggs, sugar, and cream.

From Lisbon's iconic Pastel de Nata to the lesser-known but equally delicious Sintra Pillows, Portuguese desserts are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Portugal has a wide variety of sweets, including rich chocolate cake, flaky pastries filled with almond cream, and creamy custard tarts.

The Christmas king cake Bolo Rei and the sweet rice pudding Arroz Doce are just a couple of the regional specialties that each part of the nation is known for.

Not to mention the delicious caramel flan and the well-known Portuguese sponge cake.

If you have a sweet tooth or are just looking for something to impress your guests or devour yourself, be sure to indulge in some of these delicious desserts.

27 Delicious and Easy Portuguese Dessert Recipes

1. Arroz Doce (Portuguese Rice Pudding)

Close up image of Portuguese rice pudding in a white bowl.

Let’s start with this delectable rice pudding, shall we?

Those who enjoy creamy, sweet treats will love this dessert because it is simple to make and tastes delicious.

Arroz Doce is a traditional rice pudding from Portugal that is made with cinnamon, lemon zest, and sweetened condensed milk.

Arroz Doce (Portuguese Rice Pudding)

2. Areias Cookies

Areias cookies in a blue bowl.

Cookies anyone? These Portuguese cookies are simple to make and are great for a little sweet treat throughout the day. They go great when served with a cup of tea or coffee.

Areias Cookies

3. Portuguese Sawdust Pudding

Portuguese Sawdust Pudding is a tasty and well-known dessert in Portugal.

Crushed biscuits, caramel, and whipped cream are stacked together to make this dessert. This results in an airy and light pudding with a hint of crunch from the crushed cookies.

This recipe is great to serve at dinner parties or gatherings.

Portuguese Sawdust Pudding

4. Portuguese Sponge Cake

Cake is always a classic. This Portuguese sponge cake is also known as po de lo. It’s fluffy, delicate, and great for any occasion.

Portuguese Sponge Cake

5. Portuguese Sweet Bread

Massa Sovada, also referred to as Portuguese Sweet Bread, is a traditional bread that is frequently eaten as dessert.

The ingredients for this bread include eggs, sugar, and butter. Lemon zest and cinnamon are used as flavorings.

A sweet and flavorful bread is the end result, which is ideal for toasting and serving with some butter or jam. For those who enjoy homemade baked goods, this bread is simple to make.

Portuguese Sweet Bread

6. Portuguese Rice Muffins (Bolos De Arroz)

Bolos de Arroz, also referred to as Portuguese Rice Muffins, are a tasty and simple treat.

They are great as an after work or school snack. Bolos de Arroz are even great to bring to parties.

These muffins have a light and fluffy texture and are made with ingredients like rice flour, sugar, and eggs. They have a deliciously sweet and aromatic flavor that is enhanced by the addition of vanilla and lemon zest.

These muffins are a wonderful way to try some of the delectable desserts that Portugal has to offer and are ideal for those who like sweet treats with a little texture.

Portuguese Rice Muffins (Bolos De Arroz)

7. Bolo Rei (Christmas Kings Cake)

Bolo Rei, also known as "Christmas Kings Cake," is a traditional Portuguese cake that is typically eaten around, you guessed it, Christmas.

A soft, sweet bread that is flecked with candied fruit and nuts is used to make this cake.

A crown of sugar and nuts is then placed on top of the cake, giving it a regal appearance. Your taste buds will be delighted by the rich, complex flavor of bolo rei, which is delightfully sweet.

Bolo Rei (Christmas Kings Cake)

8. Chocolate Cake

Love chocolate cake as much as us?

Portuguese chocolate cake is just one variation of the world-famous chocolate cake that is loved by people everywhere.

This cake has a deep chocolate flavor that will satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth and is rich, moist, and decadent.

Portuguese chocolate cake is a delectable treat that is ideal for any occasion, whether you enjoy it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream.

Chocolate Cake

9. Portuguese Salame De Chocolate

Chocolate salame. This traditional dessert doesn’t require baking and is great if you are a lover of chocolate.

A mixture of chocolate, butter, cookies, and nuts are used to make this dessert, which is then rolled into a log and chilled.

The dessert gets its name from how it looks when cut, which is similar to a salami. Those who like sweet treats with a little crunch will love this dessert.

Portuguese Salame De Chocolate

10. Portuguese Orange Cake

Bolo de Laranja, or Portuguese orange cake, is a delightfully sweet and fragrant cake that is suitable for any celebration.

This cake is made with fresh orange juice and zest, which gives it a bright and citrusy flavor.

Additionally, nutmeg and cinnamon are used to give it a warm, spicy flavor. This simple-to-make cake is ideal for anyone who likes sweet treats with a hint of tang.

Portuguese Orange Cake

11. Pao De Dues (Portuguese Bread)

Portuguese bread known as "Po de Deus" or "Bread of God" is sweet bread that is frequently eaten as dessert.

This bread has a sweet and tropical flavor because it is made with ingredients like sugar, eggs, and coconut.

It also has vanilla and cinnamon flavors, which give it a cozy and fragrant aroma. Po de Deus is a delicious way to experience some of the distinctive flavors of Portugal and is ideal for toasting and serving with a little butter or jam.

Pao De Dues (Portuguese Bread)

12. Portuguese Tarts (Pastel De Nata)

One of the most well known and loved Portuguese desserts – Pastel de nata.

These tarts have a flaky, buttery pastry crust and a custard filling with cinnamon and vanilla flavoring.

Warm and dusted with powdered sugar is the ideal way to serve them.

You must try this delicious Pastel de Nata, a dessert that is famous for its delectably distinctive flavor.

Portuguese Tarts (Pastel De Nata)

13. Biscoitos (Portuguese Biscuit Cookies)

Biscoitos are a type of traditional Portuguese biscuit that are typically enjoyed with coffee or tea.

Making these cookies is simple, and you can flavor them however you like with things like lemon zest, cinnamon, and vanilla.

They are ideal for dipping because of their slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture.

Biscoitos (Portuguese Biscuit Cookies)

14. Carrot Cake

What about a different carrot cake recipe?

This cake is made with grated carrots, which give it a moist and tender texture.

Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg are used to flavor it. The frosting, which is typically made of cream cheese, gives the cake a rich and tangy flavor.

A delicious dessert that is appropriate for any occasion is Portuguese carrot cake.

Carrot Cake

15. Little Orange Cakes (Bolinhos De Laranja)

Bolinhos de Laranja, also known as Little Orange Cakes, are tiny, bite-sized cakes that are flavored with orange juice and zest.

They are excellent for dessert or as a snack because of their light and fluffy texture.

Bolinhos de Laranja are a delicious and simple way to experience some of the distinctive flavors of Portugal.

Little Orange Cakes (Bolinhos De Laranja)

16. Caramelised Apple Cake

The decadent and delectably sweet dessert known as caramelized apple cake is ideal for autumn.

Layers of tender cake and caramelized apples are combined to create this cake, which is then covered in whipped cream.

Its flavor is rich and complex, making it ideal for those who like sweets with a little complexity.

Caramelised Apple Cake

17. Bolo De Amendoa (Portuguese Almond Torte)

A traditional Portuguese cake made with ground almonds and flavored with vanilla and lemon zest.

This recipe for Portuguese almond torte (Bolo de amendoa) is easy to make and is delicious.

Any fan of almonds will adore its dense, moist texture and deliciously nutty flavor. For those who like rich, complex desserts that are not overly sweet, this cake is ideal.

Bolo De Amendoa (Portuguese Almond Torte)

18. Bolas De Berlim (Portuguese Custard Donuts)

Bolas de Berlim, also known as Portuguese custard donuts, are a well-known pastry from Portugal that resembles a donut with custard inside.

They are made from a sweet yeasted dough that is deep-fried and filled with a rich custard that is made from egg yolks.

These indulgent pastries, which are frequently dusted with powdered sugar, are a tasty treat that are great for breakfast or dessert.

Bolas De Berlim (Portuguese Custard Donuts)

19. Cavacas (Sweet Iced Popovers)

A popular Portuguese pastry served at celebrations and festivals is the cavacas.

These tiny, airy cakes are topped with a sweet glaze that resembles icing and are made with a straightforward batter that is flavored with lemon zest.

For those who prefer desserts that aren't overly heavy or rich, they are a delicious and light treat.

Cavacas (Sweet Iced Popovers)

20. Caramel Flan

Also known as "Pudim de Leite Condensado," caramel flan is a beloved dessert in Portugal and is frequently served at special events.

Condensed milk, eggs, and caramel sauce are used to make this rich and sugary dessert.

It has a silky, smooth texture that is ideal for people who like rich, decadent desserts.

Caramel Flan

21. Leite Crème

Leite Creme is a creamy pudding-like dessert that is traditionally served in Portugal.

It is made with a thick custard-like mixture of milk, sugar, and cornstarch that is cooked together.

It is typically served cold and frequently flavored with vanilla and cinnamon.

Leite Creme is a delectable and soothing dessert that is ideal for people who like straightforward, traditional flavors.

Leite Crème

22. Rabanadas

Love French toast? This Portuguese dessert, rabanadas is similar to this French treat.

Slices of bread are dipped in a mixture of milk, eggs, and sugar to make them, and they are then deep-fried until they are golden brown.

They are typically served with jam or sweet syrup and frequently have a cinnamon flavor.

The decadent and comforting dessert rabanadas is ideal for breakfast or dessert.

Rabanadas

23. Malasadas

A popular Portuguese sweet that resembles a donut, malasadas. They are made from sweet yeast dough that is dipped in sugar before being deep-fried.

Various fillings, such as custard, chocolate, or fruit preserves, can be used to fill malasadas.

These fluffy, decadent treats are great to serve at special occasions like Christmas or Easter.

This recipe is a Hawaiian version of the Portuguese malasadas.

Malasadas

24. Madeira Cake

This cake is so delicious when served with a cup of tea or coffee. This makes it great for morning tea or afternoon tea parties.

Lemon zest is used to flavor this cake, which is made with common ingredients like flour, butter, sugar, and eggs.

The cake is ideal for those who like straightforward and traditional desserts because of its dense and buttery texture and slightly tangy flavor.

Madeira Cake

25. Sintra Pillows

Calling all pastry lovers! These Sintra pillows have a flaky pastry shell with an egg yolk and almond filling inside.

They are a tasty and distinctive dessert that is ideal for anyone who enjoys almond-based pastries, and they are frequently dusted with powdered sugar.

Sintra Pillows

26. Molotov

Known also as "Pudim Molotov," molotov is a traditional Portuguese sweet that resembles meringue.

Egg whites are used to make it, which are then whipped into a stiff foam and baked. The end result is a fluffy dessert that is light and airy with a crispy exterior.

For those who like light and airy desserts, molotov is a delicious and cooling treat that is frequently served with a sweet sauce or fruit compote.

Molotov

27. Chocolate Mousse

Portuguese chocolate mousse is just one variation of the classic dessert known as chocolate mousse that is enjoyed around the world.

This decadent dessert has a smooth and velvety texture and is made with dark chocolate, eggs, sugar, and heavy cream.

For those who enjoy rich, decadent chocolate desserts, it is frequently served chilled.

Chocolate Mousse

FAQ

What is a famous Lisbon dessert?

Portuguese egg tarts, also known as Pastel de Nata, are one of the most famous Lisbon desserts.
These delectable sweets are made with a flaky pastry crust and a custard filling made of cream, sugar, and egg yolks.

What are some Portugal desserts?

Some popular Portuguese desserts include Arroz Doce, Bolo Rei, Leite Crème, Caramel Flan, and Pastel de Nata.

Close up image of arroz doce in a white bowl.

Tried one of these recipes? Let us know how it went in the comments below.

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Recipe

Close up image of arroz doce with cinnamon on top in a blue bowl.

Portuguese Desserts

Emily
From sweet pastries and breads to creamy custards, there are many delicious Portuguese desserts that you can make at home!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 35 minutes mins
Total Time 40 minutes mins
ESTIMATED COST : $7.21, or $1.80 a serve
Course Dessert
Cuisine Portuguese
Servings 4 serves
Calories 353 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Arroz Doce (Portuguese Rice Pudding)
  • Areias Cookies
  • Portuguese Sawdust Pudding
  • Portuguese Sponge Cake
  • Portuguese Sweet Bread
  • Portuguese Rice Muffins (Bolos De Arroz)
  • Bolo Rei (Christmas Kings Cake)
  • Chocolate Cake
  • Portuguese Salame De Chocolate
  • Portuguese Orange Cake
  • Pao De Dues (Portuguese Bread)
  • Portuguese Tarts (Pastel De Nata)
  • Biscoitos (Portuguese Biscuit Cookies)
  • Carrot Cake
  • Little Orange Cakes (Bolinhos De Laranja)
  • Caramelised Apple Cake
  • Bolo De Amendoa (Portuguese Almond Torte)
  • Bolas De Berlim (Portuguese Custard Donuts)
  • Cavacas (Sweet Iced Popovers)
  • Caramel Flan
  • Leite Crème
  • Rabanadas
  • Malasadas
  • Madeira Cake
  • Sintra Pillows
  • Molotov
  • Chocolate Mousse

Instructions
 

  • Choose your favorite recipe from the list above.
  • Gather all the ingredients.
  • Follow the recipe directions and cook up a delicious Portuguese dessert.

Notes

Nutrition, serving size and cook times are based on the first recipe on the recipe card.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serveCalories: 353kcalCarbohydrates: 69gProtein: 7gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 26mgSodium: 79mgPotassium: 163mgSugar: 31g
Nutrition Disclosure
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it went!

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  1. Greta says

    June 08, 2023 at 1:59 pm

    These recipes are just what I was looking for! I'm hosting a party for my grandma who is Portuguese.

    Reply
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Hello and welcome to Thyme For Flavor!

My name is Emily. I am the founder, cook, and photographer behind Thyme For Flavor.

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