Mallorcan pastry-making has played a key role not only in the island’s cuisine but also in the lineage of its pastry-making families.
The tradition of Mallorcan pastry stretches back centuries, and it has become an essential part of family culture. Grandmothers once made these recipes from memory, passing on their love for baking to their grandchildren, teaching them step by step how to create traditional treats like coques de Valldemossa, ensaimadas, and the Easter sweets crespells and robiols. Today, those grandchildren rekindle the pastry-making tradition with their own children, revisiting these classic recipes while adding a personal touch.
Best pastry shops in Mallorca
Although this is largely a family tradition celebrated at home, especially during Easter, Christmas, or Carnival, many pastry shops in Mallorca have also taken on the responsibility of keeping these flavors alive year-round, often through family-run businesses which have passed down through generations.
Es Fornet de sa Soca: guardians of tradition
One of the main pillars of Mallorcan pastry is Fornet de sa Soca, also known as Forn des Teatre, located in the heart of Palma.
Recognized as one of the best pastry shops in Mallorca, it is renowned for its dedication to preserving the traditional recipes that are a vital part of the island’s culinary identity. In fact, the master baker has documented his work in the book Rebosteria tradicional de Mallorca, a comprehensive collection of research aimed at rescuing and revitalizing recipes that were, in some cases, at risk of being forgotten. The shop itself embodies the essence of Fornet, with antique kitchen tools, traditional decor, and plenty of charm.
Forn d’Inca: masters of the art of puff pastry
Another staple in Mallorca’s pastry scene is Forn d’Inca, famous for its mastery of pasta de fulls (puff pastry), a technique that requires precision, time, and patience.
This bakery has not only been dedicated to creating delicious pastries but has also contributed to preserving pastry heritage through a book that compiles the most traditional recipes and the history of puff pastry on the island. Pastry lovers can dive into the secrets of making these treats passed down through generations. Among their standout products are their puff pastry tarts and pies, perfect for any special occasion.
The queen of Mallorcan pastry: the ensaimada
It would be almost sacrilegious to discuss Mallorcan pastry without mentioning the ensaimada. This delicate, fluffy pastry is a symbol of the island, and several pastry shops in Mallorca have perfected the art of making it. One such bakery is Forn d’en Biel in Llucmajor, known for its innovative take on tradition, including vegan ensaimadas that bring the classic recipe into the modern era.
Other must-visit spots for ensaimada lovers include Forn de Sant Joan and Forn de Sant Cristo, both famous for the quality of their products.
Finally, we must mention Can Joan de s’Aigo, one of the oldest and most traditional pastry shops in Palma. Here, the ensaimada is elevated to an art form, often accompanied by handmade ice creams that complete a unique culinary experience.
Lluís Pérez Pastiser: contemporary pastry with deep roots
Not all Mallorcan pastry-making is about looking to the past. Lluís Pérez, one of the island’s most renowned pastry chefs, has masterfully blended tradition and modernity. In his bakery, you will find creations that play with local flavors but are presented with a modern and refined touch.
In 2022, Pérez won the prestigious Tianet award for his coca made with carob and orange, a dessert that combines local ingredients with a contemporary approach. His delicate pastries have conquered over both locals and visitors alike, and they are a perfect example of how tradition can evolve without losing its essence.
The Lodge Mallorca: a sweet touch of fine dining
For those seeking to enjoy Mallorcan desserts in a more exclusive setting, Restaurante Singular at The Lodge Mallorca is a must-visit. Here, local pastries are elevated to a gourmet level, with traditional desserts like gató de almendra (almond cake) or ensaimada given a refined twist, turning each dish into a unique experience.
This approach fuses the essence of Mallorcan pastry with modern haute cuisine techniques, offering diners a new way to savor the island’s traditional flavors.
