Now that my time in France is drawing to a close, I’ve been reflecting on all of the amazing food I’ve had the chance to try here. By far, my favorite has been the wonderful pastries. Here are my four favorite sweets—I recommend trying them if you ever make it to France!
Canalé
Hailing from the Bordeaux region, canelés are little vanilla and rum confections that resemble miniature bundt cakes. With a doughy consistency reminiscent of custard and contrasted by a light, subtle flavor, these were very good.
Make it at home: Canalé recipe
Croissant
This one needs no introduction. The iconic French pastry, these flaky, buttery crescents are so much better in France and one of my favorite breakfast foods. I ate one for breakfast every day.
Make it at home: Classic French croissants
Pain au chocolat
Rectangularly shaped, pain au chocolat is exactly like a croissant but with a chocolate twist. Two veins of dark chocolate run down the center of the buttery pastry, making this an indulgent choice.
Make it at home: Pain au chocolat recipe & video
Tarte aux fraises
In addition to being delicious, this is the most spectacular-looking confection on the list. With a pie-like base filled with sweet cream and topped with perfectly arranged strawberries, this refreshing sweet would be perfect as a summertime dessert. (However, I ate mine for lunch.)
Make it at home: Strawberry tart
