The Best Bakes From Around The World

If you’re a fan of The Great British Bake Off then you’ll no doubt be as excited as we are once it hits our TV screens again! Cakes, pastries, pies – we love it all!

When it comes to travel, let’s face it, food is one of the best things you get to discover when abroad. And when it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like freshly baked goodies! 

Whether it’s a flaky pastry, a warm bread roll, or a rich, sweet dessert, baked goods are a universal language of love. So, let’s take a tasty trip around the world and dive into some of the best bakes you must try on your next holiday…

France – Croissant

If you’re thinking of jetting off on a suave city break in order to fill up on fantastic food then France is a no-brainer! The croissant is practically synonymous with French culture – this buttery, flaky, crescent-shaped pastry is perfect for breakfast, all washed down with a cup of strong coffee. And if you want to indulge, try a pain au chocolat, a croissant-like pastry filled with rich, dark chocolate. When in France, grabbing a croissant from a local boulangerie and enjoying it on a sunny terrace is pure heaven!

Italy – Cannoli

Next stop, Italy! We could spend hours talking about the incredible food in Italy, but let’s focus on one sweet delight: cannoli. These crispy, fried pastry tubes are filled with creamy, sweet ricotta cheese and often sprinkled with chocolate chips or nuts. If you’re wandering the streets of Sicily (where they originated), you simply must grab one. The contrast between the crunchy shell and the creamy filling will leave you craving more.

Portugal – Pastel de Nata

Portugal’s pastel de nata is a treat you’ll find yourself dreaming about long after your trip. These little custard tarts, with their creamy centre and flaky, golden pastry, are famous all over the country. They’re usually served warm and dusted with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar. A visit to Lisbon isn’t complete without stopping at the legendary Pastéis de Belém bakery to try one fresh from the oven.

Germany – Pretzel

When in Germany, especially during Oktoberfest, a fresh, warm pretzel is a must-try. These twisted bread wonders are crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, and perfectly sprinkled with coarse salt. Pair it with some mustard or dip it in cheese, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate savoury snack. If you’re feeling brave, grab a Brezn (as it’s known in Bavaria) the size of your head at a local beer hall!

Turkey – Baklava

There’s no way we could write about delicious baked goodies and skip over Turkey’s iconic baklava! This sweet dessert is made of layers of thin, flaky pastry (filo), filled with chopped nuts, and held together with a sweet, sticky syrup or honey. The best part? There are so many variations depending on the region, from pistachios to walnuts, each offering a unique flavour. It’s incredibly rich, so be prepared to savor every bite. We’re nearly drooling at the thought of this…

Mexico – Concha

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Mexico’s concha is an absolute treat. This soft, sweet bread is topped with a crunchy, sugary layer that looks a bit like a seashell – hence the name concha, meaning “shell” in Spanish! It’s often eaten with a hot drink like atole or hot chocolate, and it’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. The vibrant colours of the topping make it as Instagrammable as it is tasty!

Denmark – Danish Pastry

The name gives it away – yes, Danish pastries are indeed from Denmark! These golden, flaky pastries, known locally as wienerbrød, are often filled with sweet treats like custard, fruit, or almond paste. Whether you go for a cinnamon swirl or a jam-filled delight, Danish pastries are the perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee. Visiting a local bakery in Copenhagen for an authentic Danish pastry is a must for any foodie traveler.

Which bake are you ready to jet off and try?

There’s no better way to explore a new country than by indulging in its local delicacies, and these baked goods are just the beginning. From sweet to savoury, flaky to gooey, every country has something unique to offer your taste buds.

So, the next time you’re planning a holiday, don’t just think about the sights – think about the bites! Take a look at some of our best deals that will have you tucking into tasty new treats in no time…