If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, one of the must-try foods is the Travesseiro de Sintra. This pastry, originally from the town of Sintra, just outside of Lisbon, is a sweet, almond-filled treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
WHAT IS A TRAVESSEIRO DE SINTRA?
A travesseiro is a type of pillow in Portuguese; however, the Travesseiro de Sintra is a completely different kind of pillow. This pillow is a sweet, flaky pastry is filled with a delicious almond and egg-yolk cream filling.
The pastry is made by mixing butter, flour, and water into a dough, which is then rolled out, filled with almond cream, and folded into a pillow shape. Once baked, the pastry is sprinkled with powdered sugar and ready to be enjoyed!
THE HISTORY OF THE TRAVESSEIRO DE SINTRA
This pastry has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. According to legend, the pastry was invented by a monk who lived in the Sintra region. The monk was said to have made the pastry as a way to raise funds for his monastery.
Today, the pastry is still made using traditional methods and is sold in bakeries throughout the Sintra region. It has become a beloved dessert for both locals and tourists, who flock to the region to taste this sweet, flaky pastry.
WHERE TO FIND TRAVESSEIRO DE SINTRA
If you’re planning a trip to Portugal and want to taste this delicious pastry, head to the town of Sintra. You’ll find travesseiros in every bakery in town, but the most famous bakery for the pastry is “Piriquita”. Piriquita is a bakery that has been open for over 160 years and is one of the most famous places in Portugal to taste the sweet signature of Sintra: Travesseiro.
Photo credit: Casa Piriquita
Travesseiro de Sintra is a unique and delicious pastry that is perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. With its flaky crust and creamy almond filling, you’ll be sure to fall in love with this Portuguese dessert as much as the locals have. So next time you plan on visiting Portugal don’t forget to try this most precious pastry.
Text by: Rui Lopes Alves, Tour Guide Portugal Day Trip
*Want to bake your own Travesseiros? We are testing out some recipes and will post one shortly
