In the Balearic Islands, winter smells of sugar, freshly baked pastries, and almonds. When the cold seeps through the cobblestone streets and the sea breeze reminds us that the low season has its own charm, Mallorcan tables fill with traditional desserts that sweeten the shorter days and bring back memories of family, celebration, and home.
Among the most iconic is the ensaimada, the undisputed queen of Balearic pastries. Its light, fluffy dough —made with flour, eggs, sugar, yeast, and lard, the famous saïm— requires patience, care, and a generous touch of tradition. Although it’s enjoyed year-round, it feels especially comforting in winter, paired with a hot chocolate or a café con leche while rain or wind sweeps outside. For those with a sweet tooth, the filled versions —with cabello de ángel (pumpkin jam), custard, or even sobrasada— are a true delight.
Another must-try at this time of year is the coca de patata, typical of Valldemossa. Its soft texture and delicate flavor make it the perfect companion for a quiet afternoon snack. Made with boiled potato, sugar, and lard, it’s served dusted with powdered sugar and tastes even better when the air carries the scent of woodsmoke and the village streets are wrapped in calm.
No Mallorcan winter would be complete without robiols and crespells, delicate pastries traditionally made for Easter but often baked earlier, during the colder months. Robiols are filled with ricotta, cabello de ángel, or jam, while crespells, shaped like stars or flowers, are a wonderful excuse to gather the family and enjoy the art of kneading and baking together.
And of course, there’s the Mallorcan almond, the star ingredient in many of these desserts. Its unmistakable flavor and exceptional quality make possible delights like the gató d’ametlla, a light, flourless almond cake often served with a scoop of almond or nougat ice cream. The contrast between warm and cold perfectly captures the essence of the Mediterranean winter — cozy and sweet at the same time. Even when it’s chilly outside, let yourself be seduced by the flavors and contrasts!
At MarSenses, we believe that gastronomy is a way to connect with a place and its people. Every bite of these traditional Mallorcan sweets reminds us of the importance of life’s simple pleasures: sharing, celebrating, and enjoying the moment. In every ensaimada, coca, or gató, there’s a story of family, patience, and love for authenticity.
So this winter, let the aroma of sugar and almonds guide you. Discover Mallorca through its desserts, savor a cozy afternoon by the fire, and rediscover the true taste of home. Even better — share it with friends on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon. It’s the perfect plan!
P.S.: We’re not ones to give specific recommendations, but when it comes to these sweets, one place that locals, tourists, and even island neighbors visit daily is Ca’n Joan de s’Aigo (with several locations in Palma). If you go as a group —or as a couple, or even solo but hungry 😊— order a bit of everything so you can try all their delicious specialties.
P.P.S.: My mouth is watering just thinking about it 😊 Is yours too?
