Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, and no trip to this vibrant city is complete without indulging in its delectable desserts. From traditional classics to innovative creations, Brussels offers a wide array of mouthwatering sweets that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
With simple luggage storage in Brussels, you can easily move throughout the city on your culinary adventures. In this article, we’ll explore seven delicious desserts you need to try when visiting Brussels.
1. Belgian Waffles
When in Brussels, one dessert that should be at the top of your list is the famous Belgian waffle. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these waffles are a true delight. Served hot, they come with an array of tempting toppings such as powdered sugar, fresh fruits, whipped cream, and rich chocolate sauce.
The aroma of freshly baked waffles wafts through the streets of Brussels, and you’ll find numerous waffle stands and cafes offering this mouthwatering treat. Whether enjoyed as a late-night street snack or a dessert at a cozy café, Belgian waffles are a must-try indulgence in Brussels.
2. Speculoos
Another beloved Belgian treat is speculoos, a spiced shortcrust biscuit that’s commonly enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. These crispy cookies are infused with fragrant spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, giving them a warm and comforting flavor.
Speculoos cookies are often served alongside a hot beverage, used as a base for desserts like cheesecakes and ice cream, or even made into a delicious cookie butter spread. You can find an assortment of speculoos treats in local bakeries and specialty stores throughout Brussels.
3. Chocolate Pralines
Belgium is renowned for its exceptional chocolates, and Brussels is home to some of the finest chocolatiers in the world. Indulge in the exquisite chocolate concoctions found in the city. These bite-sized confections are filled with various delicious fillings, ranging from creamy ganache to fruit-flavored creams and nutty praline.
Whether you prefer dark, milk, or white chocolate, Brussels offers a wide selection of pralines to satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings. Visit renowned chocolate shops like Pierre Marcolini, Neuhaus, or Leonidas to sample these delightful treats.
4. Gaufres de Liège
While Belgian waffles are a must-try, Brussels also offers another variation that is equally irresistible — gaufres de Liège. These sweet treats originated in the nearby city of Liège and have gained popularity throughout Belgium.
Gaufres de Liège are made from a yeasted dough, which gives them a denser texture compared to the Brussels waffle. The dough is studded with chunks of pearl sugar that caramelize during baking, creating a delightful crunch. Served warm, these waffles are enjoyed on their own or with a dusting of powdered sugar. You can find them at various street markets, food stalls, and bakeries in Brussels.
5. Tarte au Sucre
For those with a penchant for sweet pastries, tarte au sucre is a dessert that should not be missed. This traditional Belgian sugar tart is a true delight for the taste buds.
Made with a buttery pastry crust and filled with a sweet mixture of sugar, butter, and cream, Tarte au sucre offers a rich and indulgent experience. The caramelized sugar topping adds a delightful crunch to every bite. Served warm, this dessert pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
6. Merveilleux
Originating from Belgium, the merveilleux is a divine dessert that combines layers of light and airy meringue with a velvety whipped cream filling. The meringue shells are crisp on the outside and delicate on the inside, providing a delightful contrast of textures. The dessert is often coated in chocolate shavings and cocoa powder or flavored with various toppings such as coffee, speculoos, or fruit.
With its elegant presentation and heavenly taste, the Merveilleux is a dessert that will leave you craving more. Look for patisseries or specialty shops in Brussels to experience the indulgence of this delightful treat.
7. Belgian Chocolate Mousse
No visit to Brussels is complete without indulging in a decadent Belgian chocolate mousse. Renowned for its high-quality chocolate, Belgium offers an exceptional dessert experience with its rich and velvety mousse.
Made from premium Belgian chocolate, this dessert is characterized by its smooth and creamy texture. Each spoonful melts in your mouth, releasing the intense and indulgent flavor of chocolate.
Indulge in Brussels’ Sweet Delights
Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets or savoring a cozy café experience, indulge in these irresistible desserts that capture the essence of Brussels’ culinary heritage. Treat your taste buds and create lasting memories with the delightful sweets that this enchanting city has to offer.
