20 Portuguese Burnt Sugar Candy Recipe Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!
Published on: Mar 8, 2024
Portuguese burnt sugar candy, also known as "queimada," is a traditional sweet treat that has been enjoyed by generations in Portugal. This rich and decadent candy is made by slowly cooking sugar until it caramelizes and turns a deep golden brown. It is then poured into molds and left to cool, resulting in a crunchy and sweet confection. While the recipe may seem simple, there are a few key tips and tricks to achieving the perfect burnt sugar candy. Let's explore the steps to making this delicious treat and learn more about its history and cultural significance in Portugal.
Indulge in the sweet and rich flavors of Portuguese Burnt Sugar Candy. This traditional dessert is made with burnt sugar and condensed milk, giving it a unique taste and smooth texture. It's perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing your guests with its beautiful caramel color.
This flaky pastry filled with creamy egg custard is a staple in Portuguese bakeries. The Portuguese Egg Tart, also known as Pastel de Nata, is a deliciously indulgent treat that can be enjoyed any time of day. Serve it warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a true Portuguese experience.
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Portuguese Orange Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Oranges, All
This moist and flavorful cake is made with freshly squeezed orange juice and topped with a zesty orange glaze. The combination of citrus and sweetness makes it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
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Portuguese Rolls – Papo Secos
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, Warm
Papo Secos, or Portuguese Rolls, are a staple in Portuguese cuisine. These soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for dipping in soups or spreading with your favorite jam. They can also be used for sandwiches, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
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French toast (Portuguese style)
Main Ingredients: Bread, Milk, Eggs, Sugar, Cinnamon, Vegetable Oil
Put a Portuguese twist on a classic breakfast dish with this delicious and easy French toast recipe. Made with thick slices of bread, soaked in a mixture of milk, eggs, and cinnamon, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
Similar to the Portuguese Egg Tart, these treats are made with a flaky pastry crust and filled with a creamy egg custard. They are often topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. These bite-sized treats are perfect for sharing and are a must-try for any dessert lover.
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Main Ingredients: Milk, Lemon, Sugar, All Purpose Flour, Eggs, Cinnamon
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Main Ingredients: Sugar, Margarine, Eggs, Flour, Condensed Milk, Milk
Kuejadas, or Portuguese Tarts, are a popular dessert in Portugal. They are made with a crispy pastry crust and filled with a rich and creamy custard. These tarts can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert and are best served warm.
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Arroz Doce (Portuguese rice pudding)
Main Ingredients: Arborio Rice, Boiling Water, Lemon, Whole Milk, Sugar
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Portuguese milk doughnuts
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Milk, All Purpose Flour, Granulated Sugar, Baking
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Portuguese Biscuits
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Butter, Eggs, Flour, Baking Powder
Portuguese biscuits, known as Bolachas, are a staple in Portuguese households. These buttery and crumbly biscuits are perfect for dipping in coffee or tea. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a delicious snack any time of day.
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Portuguese Sponge Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Egg Yolks, Sugar, Flour
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Portuguese Porridge (Papas)
Main Ingredients: Milk, Sugar, Flour, Salt, Ground Cinnamon, Egg Yolk
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Encharcada (Portuguese Soaked Eggs)
Main Ingredients: Granulated Sugar, Water, Cinnamon Stick, Egg Yolks
Encharcada, also known as Portuguese Soaked Eggs, is a unique and delicious dessert. Made with eggs, sugar, and milk, it is soaked in a sweet syrup and topped with cinnamon and lemon zest. The result is a creamy and decadent dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
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Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Yellow Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Garlic, Fresh
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Portuguese Doughnuts (Felozes)
Main Ingredients: Water, Butter, Granulated White Sugar, All Purpose
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The History of Portuguese Burnt Sugar Candy
Burnt Sugar Candy: A Cultural Staple
The origins of Portuguese burnt sugar candy can be traced back to the 15th century, during the Portuguese Age of Discovery. As Portuguese explorers traveled the world and established trade routes, they brought back exotic ingredients such as sugar cane from Brazil. This led to an increase in sugar production in Portugal and the creation of various sweet treats, including burnt sugar candy.
In Portugal, burnt sugar candy is a beloved dessert that is often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays such as Christmas and Easter. Its cultural significance is also evident in the traditional Portuguese Christmas carol, "A Todos Um Bom Natal," which mentions the candy as a symbol of the festive season.
The Recipe for Portuguese Burnt Sugar Candy
Ingredients and Preparation
To make Portuguese burnt sugar candy, you will need granulated sugar, water, and molds for shaping the candy. The key to achieving the perfect burnt sugar flavor is to cook the sugar slowly over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
To start, add the sugar and water to a heavy-bottomed saucepan and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar turns a deep golden brown. This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the heat and the amount of sugar used.
Tips for Success
One important tip to keep in mind when making Portuguese burnt sugar candy is to use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature of the sugar. The ideal temperature for burnt sugar candy is between 300-310 degrees Fahrenheit. If the sugar reaches a higher temperature, it can result in a darker and more bitter candy.
Another tip is to use molds to shape the candy. Traditional Portuguese molds are made of metal and have intricate designs, adding an extra touch of beauty to the candy. However, you can use any small molds or even a greased baking sheet to shape the candy.
In Conclusion
A Sweet and Timeless Treat
Portuguese burnt sugar candy is a simple yet delicious confection that holds a special place in Portuguese culture and cuisine. Its rich history and traditional preparation make it a beloved treat for many, and its sweet and crunchy flavor is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. With these tips and tricks, you can now make your own batch of this indulgent candy and experience a taste of Portugal in your own kitchen.