10 Traditional Camino Desserts You’ll Love – Sweet Treats Along the Camino de Santiago
1. Tarta de Santiago (Almond Cake)
If there’s one dessert that represents the Camino, it’s Tarta de Santiago. This gluten-free almond cake is light, subtly sweet, and decorated with the cross of St. James, making it a beautiful and symbolic treat.
Where to try it:
Santiago de Compostela and most Galician cafés.Perfect pairing:
A slice of tarta with a cup of rich Spanish coffee after completing your pilgrimage.
Fun fact: The design on top is made using powdered sugar and a stencil of the St. James cross.
Tarta de Santiago (Almond Cake)-It’s so good!
2. Churros con Chocolate
Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, churros are a beloved Spanish favorite. They’re often enjoyed at breakfast or as an afternoon snack, dipped in thick, rich hot chocolate.
Where to try it:
Nearly every town has a café serving fresh churros in the morning.Pro tip: Look for places that make them fresh to order for the best experience.
Why I loved it:
After a rainy morning walk, a warm plate of churros felt like pure comfort.
Related post: 25 Essential Spanish Words and Phrases for Pilgrims Walking the Camino de Santiago
Oh my goodness! These were my favorite!
3. Filloas (Galician Crepes)
Filloas are thin, crepe-like pancakes popular in Galicia, especially during festivals. They can be served plain, with sugar and cinnamon, or filled with sweet jams and creams.
Where to try it:
Galician restaurants and pilgrim menus near Santiago.Best enjoyed with:
A drizzle of local honey or a dusting of powdered sugar.
4. Queso con Membrillo (Cheese with Quince Paste)
This simple but elegant dessert features Tetilla cheese, a creamy Galician specialty, paired with membrillo, a sweet quince paste.
Why it’s great:
The combination of salty and sweet is perfectly balanced.Pilgrim tip: It’s often included in the dessert section of the menú del peregrino (pilgrim’s menu).
Related post: Healthy High-Protein Meals for Long Days on the Camino de Santiago
5. Arroz con Leche (Spanish Rice Pudding)
A creamy, comforting classic, arroz con leche is Spain’s version of rice pudding. It’s often flavored with cinnamon and lemon zest, making it both fragrant and flavorful.
Where to find it:
Commonly served in pilgrim menus or local restaurants.Best eaten:
Warm on a chilly evening after a long day’s walk.
6. Leche Frita (Fried Milk Dessert)
This unique treat consists of sweet, custard-like milk that’s cooled, cut into squares, and lightly fried. It’s crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.
Why you’ll love it:
It’s unlike anything you’ve probably tried before — indulgent and fun!Perfect with:
A dusting of cinnamon and a hot espresso.
7. Natillas (Spanish Custard)
Natillas is a smooth, silky custard often topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a simple biscuit.
Comfort food factor:
This dessert feels like a hug in a bowl — light, creamy, and nostalgic.Where to try it:
In smaller, family-run restaurants along the route.
FOLLOW THE CAMINO CHRONICLES
FACEBOOK: THE CAMINO CHRONICLES
8. Flan (Caramel Custard)
Flan is a classic Spanish dessert made with eggs, sugar, and milk, topped with a rich caramel sauce. It’s light, satisfying, and a common choice on the Camino.
Pilgrim tip:
It’s often included as one of the dessert options in pilgrim menus.Why it’s perfect:
It’s refreshing and not overly heavy after a big meal.
Related post:The Best Spanish Wines and Drinks Along the Camino de Santiago
9. Polvorones (Spanish Almond Cookies)
These crumbly cookies are made with almonds and are especially popular during holidays, though you can often find them year-round.
Portable treat:
Polvorones are perfect for tucking into your backpack as a trail snack.Flavor note:
They melt in your mouth with a rich, nutty taste.
10. Mantecadas (Spanish Muffin-Like Pastries)
These traditional pastries are slightly sweet and often enjoyed with coffee or tea. They’re soft, buttery, and ideal for a quick morning bite before setting out on the trail.
Where to find them:
Local bakeries along the Camino, especially in northern Spain.Perfect pairing:
A café con leche and a quiet morning in a small village.
A simple Spanish breakfast.
Get Your Gifts and Gear Here
Tips for Enjoying Desserts on the Camino
While it’s tempting to try every dessert you see (and I highly recommend sampling a few!), here are some tips for balancing indulgence with your walking routine:
Share with friends:
Splitting desserts lets you taste more without overindulging.
Pro Tip: DO NOT share Chocolate con Churros!Walk it off:
Remember, you’re walking many miles each day — a sweet treat is well-earned!Pair with local drinks:
Try Tarta de Santiago with Albariño wine or churros with a café con leche.Enjoy the cultural experience:
Dessert is more than food; it’s part of the Camino tradition.
Final Thoughts: Sweet Memories of the Camino
Some of my favorite Camino memories involve food — especially desserts shared with fellow pilgrims. Whether it was a simple flan at a roadside café or a celebratory slice of Tarta de Santiago upon reaching the cathedral, each treat told a story.
Desserts aren’t just about sugar; they’re about celebration, connection, and savoring the journey itself. As you walk, take the time to pause, taste, and appreciate these delicious traditions.
Buen Camino — and buen provecho!
Renae
Internal Linking Suggestions
Top 10 Foods to Try on the Camino de Santiago
The Best Spanish Wines and Drinks Along the Camino
Camino Packing Guide: What to Bring