Top 10 Czech Desserts & Sweets

Heritage Web
Heritage Digest
Published in
8 min readMay 6, 2023

The Czech Republic has a wide variety of delicious pastries and desserts that are sure to please any palate. From the traditional Valašský Frgál and Tvarohový Závin s Borůvkami, to the flavorful Makový Závin and hearty Žemlovka, you’ll find an array of dishes that are as unique as they are delicious.

If you are craving something sweet and want to experience the taste of Eastern Europe, you should try one of these top 10 Czech desserts. They are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings!

1. Maková Bábovka

Do you have a sweet tooth? Well, let me introduce you to the delightful Maková Bábovka, a traditional Czech poppy seed cake. This cake is not only visually stunning, with its rustic brown and white swirly pattern, but it is also incredibly tasty.

The moist sponge cake is infused with the subtle nutty flavor of poppy seeds, while the top is drizzled with a sweet lemony glaze or decadent chocolate sauce. Maková Bábovka is perfect for any occasion, whether you want to impress your guests at a dinner party or indulge in a slice during your afternoon coffee break.

Trust me, one bite of this cake and you will be transported to the cozy streets of Prague, surrounded by the rich aroma of spices and the sound of clinking glasses. So grab your cup of tea or coffee, sit down, and enjoy a slice of this traditional Czech delight!

2. Vosí Hnízda

If you’re looking for a unique treat that’s sure to impress, look no further than Vosí Hnízda, also known as “wasp nest” cookies. These Czech delicacies are named for their striking resemblance to the intricately woven homes of the humble wasp.

But don’t worry, there are no insects involved in the making of these goodies! Instead, the cookies are made from a mix of crushed cookies, vanilla cream, and cocoa, which are then shaped into individual nests and filled with jam or cream. The end result is a snack that’s equally adorable and delicious.

Whether you’re serving them at a tea party, impressing coworkers with your unique culinary creations, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, Vosí Hnízda is a must-try for anyone looking to branch out of their cookie comfort zone.

3. Švestkové Koláče s Drobenkou

If you’re hankering for a sweet treat that’s perfect for a lazy afternoon, look no further than Švestkové Koláče s Drobenkou. This traditional Czech dessert consists of a soft buttery pastry filled with sweet tangy plum jam and topped with a generous sprinkling of crunchy streusel crumbs.

Each bite is a delicious balance of textures and flavors that will transport you straight to a quaint European bakery. It’s no wonder this dessert has been a staple in Czech cuisine for generations. Whether you’re enjoying it alongside a steaming cup of coffee or savoring it as a post-dinner indulgence, Švestkové Koláče s Drobenkou is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you dreaming of your next visit to the Czech Republic.

So, what are you waiting for? Enjoy a slice of this decadent dessert and let its delicious flavor take you to another world!

4. Masopustní Koblihy

If you’re a lover of doughy, sugary treats, then you absolutely have to try Masopustní Koblihy. These scrumptious Czech pastries are a staple of the Masopust carnival (hence their name) and are filled with either plum marmalade or cream. Think of them as a delicious, doughy hug in pastry form. These treats have a crispy outer layer and a soft, fluffy inside that will definitely satisfy your craving for something sweet.

Whether you’re indulging in them on a crisp winter’s day or as part of a masquerade carnival celebration, Masopustní Koblihy is simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try them with a hot cup of tea or coffee, you won’t ever want to go back to those plain old donuts you’ve been eating! So why not break out of your pastry comfort zone and give these delightful Czech treats a try? I promise… you won’t regret it!

5. Východočeské Smaženky

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a warm, crispy, and delicious Východočeské Smaženky. This traditional Czech pastry is made with juicy apples that are finely diced, mixed with cinnamon and sugar, and then enveloped in a delicate dough. The pastry is then deep-fried until golden brown to perfection. As you take a bite, the crunchy outside layer breaks apart, revealing the sweet and sour filling, which creates a delightful combination of tastes and sensations in your mouth.

Východočeské Smaženky is a must-try dish for those who love exploring different cuisines and experiencing new tastes. For an authentic culinary experience of the Czech Republic, try this pastry for breakfast, a snack, or a dessert.

6. Peciválky

Are you in the mood for something amazingly sweet? Look no further than Peciválky — a traditional Czech dish that will leave you feeling content and happy.

To make these plum dumplings, juicy plums are wrapped in a dough made of flour, butter, and egg and then baked until they are golden brown. The pièce de résistance? A sprinkling of poppy seeds on top provides a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

One bite of these delectable delights and you’ll be transported to a cozy kitchen in the Czech Republic, surrounded by warm and welcoming aromas. Whether you want them as a dessert or a comforting snack, Peciválky is an excellent choice that satisfies your sugar cravings with a twist of savory delight.

So why not try something different today and indulge yourself in the goodness of Peciválky? Your taste buds will thank you later!

7. Valašský Frgál with Blueberries

Have you ever eaten something so delicious that it made your taste buds feel ecstatic? Well, let me introduce you to Valašský Frgál — a traditional pastry hailing from the picturesque region of Wallachia in the Czech Republic.

Imagine a soft, chewy dough rolled out thin, then filled with a sweet and tart mixture of blueberries, sugar, and sweetened cheese. The secret to its irresistibility? The generous amount of butter that is layered on top during baking and the final dusting of powdered sugar.

One bite and you’ll be transported to a simpler time, where the warmth of the countryside and the hospitality of the locals is felt in each bite. Even though it may seem simple, Valašský Frgál is a true work of art — a symbol of a culture that values simplicity, warmth, and good food above all else. Trust me, this pastry is not one to be missed!

8. Tvarohový Závin s Borůvkami

Prepare your taste buds for an exquisite treat with Tvarohový Závin s Borůvkami, a delectable pastry that will transport you straight to the heart of Czech Republic. Imagine biting into a crisp and buttery pastry that gives way to a creamy and tangy filling made from fresh farmer’s cheese (Tvaroh). To add to its deliciousness, the pastry also features an abundant serving of flavorful blueberries that burst in your mouth with every bite.

This dessert is not just any pastry — it offers a delicious and satisfying experience that will have you craving for more. So whether you’re looking for a sweet escape or simply indulging your sweet tooth, Tvarohový Závin s Borůvkami is the perfect way to satisfy your cravings and tantalize your taste buds.

9. Makový Závin

Are you ready to take a culinary journey to Eastern Europe? Then let me introduce you to the delightful dessert known as Makový Závin! This traditional Czech pastry combines poppy seeds with tender dough and a hint of sweetness for a truly unique and utterly delicious treat. A staple in Czech bakeries and households, Makový Závin has been enjoyed for generations and is a beloved part of the country’s culinary heritage.

Whether you’re indulging in a slice as a midday snack or serving it up as the finale to a dinner party, this pastry will satisfy everyone. So why not add a touch of international flair to your next baking venture and whip up your own batch of Makový Závin? You won’t regret it!

10. Žemlovka

If you’re looking for a delicious Czech dessert, look no further than Žemlovka — aka Czech bread pudding! This traditional dish is made with layers of sliced apples, cinnamon sugar, and thick slices of brioche bread that soak up all the sweet juice. Once baked in the oven, the bread forms a crispy top layer that conceals all the sweet flavors below.

One of the best things about Žemlovka is its versatility — you can add pecans or raisins to the mix, or even swap the apples for pears. For an extra indulgent touch, add a dollop of freshly whipped cream or sprinkle it with powdered sugar — or do both! Whether you’re serving it for breakfast or dessert, Žemlovka is a crowd-pleaser that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Europe.

Wrapping It Up

From Valašský Frgál to Žemlovka, the Czech Republic is a hub for delicious and unique pastries. If you’re looking for something unusual, these traditional desserts are sure to add an international flair to any occasion. So why not give them a try and explore the wonderful world of Czech desserts? Your taste buds will love it!

Dobrou chuť!

--

--

Heritage Web
Heritage Digest

On Medium we write about the world's food, culture, and history. Off Medium we help people stay connected with their communities https://linktr.ee/heritageweb