Prague is not only famous for its stunning architecture and rich history but also for its culinary delights. Among these delights are exquisite desserts that are celebrated by culinary experts around the world. Recently, Gault & Millau, a renowned culinary guide, has recommended the top 10 desserts to try in Prague.
Tantalizing Trdelník
One of the most famous desserts you’ll encounter in Prague is the Trdelník. Although its origins may be contested, with claims linking it to Slovakia or Hungary, it has become a staple in the Czech capital’s tourist areas. This sweet, spiral pastry is traditionally grilled over an open flame and coated in sugar and nuts. Some modern iterations include fillings like ice cream or seasonal fruits, providing a delightful twist to this traditional treat.
The Trdelník is more than just a dessert; it is a sensory experience. The aroma of cinnamon and sugar fills the air, luring passersby to indulge. While some critics argue it is a touristy snack, its popularity remains unchallenged, making it a must-try for visitors and locals alike.
Decadent Sachertorte
The Sachertorte is a legendary dessert with a storied history that traces back to 19th-century Vienna, yet it has found a cherished place in Prague’s dessert repertoire. This rich chocolate cake, layered with apricot jam and finished with a glossy chocolate glaze, embodies perfection with each bite.
Many upscale restaurants and cafes in Prague offer their take on the Sachertorte, often served with a dollop of unsweetened whipped cream to balance its sweetness. The dessert represents a classic indulgence that pairs perfectly with a robust cup of coffee, offering an elegant way to end any meal.
Unique Medovník
Medovník, also known as honey cake, is a beloved dessert in Czechia and a notable highlight in Gault & Millau’s recommendations. This multilayered cake is made with thin, honey-flavored layers and a creamy filling that is both sweet and slightly tangy.
Its charm lies in the delicate balance of flavors, where the honey does not overpower but instead enhances the cake’s richness. Medovník is a testament to the artistry involved in Czech baking traditions and remains a popular choice in cafes and pastry shops throughout Prague.
Irresistible Štrúdl
Štrúdl, traditionally an Austrian dessert, has been embraced with gusto in Czech culinary culture. This delicious pastry, typically filled with apples, cinnamon, and sometimes raisins or nuts, is a comforting classic that has stood the test of time.
It is often enjoyed warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar. As one of the top recommended desserts by Gault & Millau, Štrúdl beautifully captures the essence of a home-style dessert that evokes cherished memories.
Heavenly Větrník
While lesser-known to international visitors, the Větrník is a quintessentially Czech pastry worth discovering. This choux pastry is filled with a rich caramel and vanilla cream and often topped with a caramel glaze or powdered sugar.
Praised for its unique texture and indulgent filling, the Větrník exemplifies the creativity and skill of Czech pastry chefs. It stands as a delightful indulgence that promises to satisfy even the most demanding sweet tooth.
Prague offers a plethora of desserts that each tell a story of tradition, innovation, and indulgence. From the iconic Trdelník to the heavenly Větrník, the city’s dessert scene is a tapestry of flavors waiting to be explored. Whether a local or a visitor, sampling these Gault & Millau recommended delights is a journey through the sweeter side of Czech cuisine.
