France is known for their delicious croissants and macarons. But did you know there are a ton of French pastries you’ve never heard of? In France, pastries are often passed down through different generations. These old practices are heavily protected and cherished in French culture.
Many traditional pastries are so important to the culture that special groups protect the recipes. Members of these groups do what they can to ensure the ancient pastries aren’t forgotten with the passage of time. With so many special French pastries, we have compiled a list of the top 7 French pastries you’ve never heard of.
Next time you want to try a French pastry, skip the croissant and make one of the traditional recipes on this list!
7 French Pastries You’ve Never Heard Of
1. Tourteau Fromager
Some might say the tourteau fromager was the original cheesecake, but it is different from the typical cheesecake you may be thinking of. Originally from the region of Poitou-Charentes, the tourteau fromager is made from local goat cheese. Its flavor is strong, but a bit sweeter than a pastry made from cow’s milk.
Out of all the French pastries you’ve never heard of, the tourteau fromager likely has the most unique origin story. It is believed that in the 19th century a woman was making cheesecake, but accidentally burnt it in the oven. Instead of throwing it away, she decided to see if it was still edible inside. After peeling off the burnt outside, the tourteau fromager was as soft and light.
Ever since her accidental discovery, many other families began to make their cheesecake like this as well. To this day, this technique is used, but some even eat it with the burnt crust!
2. Broyé du Poitou
What could be better than a giant cookie? The broyé du Poitou is just that. The giant cookie is meant to feed a crowd though, not just one person. Back in the day, farmers would go to work carrying a broyé du Poitou, and share it with the other farmers. Overtime, the big cookie became a symbol of community. Even today, you can sometimes find it at special gatherings like weddings or mass.
If you ever get to taste this unknown French pastry, make sure not to cut it with a knife. It’s meant to be broken by hand, and enjoyed with coffee or wine. Each bite is a combination of sweet, rich, and salty. Though this is likely one of the French pastries you’ve never heard of, once you get a taste of it, you’ll want to eat it every day!
3. Gateau Nantais
This local French pastry may be more for adults than kids! The Gateau Nantais is one of the booziest French pastries you’ve never heard of! In the 18th century, there were many goods coming from French colonies into Brittany. Bakers would get their hands on some of the best goods before anyone else could. The main ingredient they would take to make the gateau nantais was dark rum.
This rich cake would be made with plenty of ground almonds, butter, and a ton of rum. Gateau nantais is literally soaked in rum! Some enjoy the cake right when it’s done baking, but some prefer to let the rum soak in the cake for a whole day. Either way, you’ll definitely feel a bit different after enjoying a slice of this French cake.
4. Teurgoule
Who knew pirates would help create one of France’s most delicious pastries? But, that’s exactly what happened with the pastry, teurgoule. Pirates would steal spices from Spanish ships, and bring back all sorts of spices to France. The most famous being cinnamon. The warming cinnamon was then mixed with rice, sugar, and milk to make teurgoule.
The comforting rice porridge is cooked for over six hours, creating a caramel-like crust on top. Under this crispy top, lies a velvety soft rice pudding. Each bite of teurgoule is delicious and warming. Teurgoule may be one of the French pastries you’ve never heard of, but it’s definitely one you have to try!
5. Falculelle
On the French island of Corsica, an interesting type of cheese is made from ewe’s milk. This cheese is called Brocciu and is used in many desserts and dishes in the island. Falculelle is likely the most loved dessert made from Brocciu. It’s kind of like a small cheesecake.
Brocciu is combined with eggs, sugar, and a smidge of flour. This mixture is then placed in chestnut leaves and baked. Opening the chestnut leaves reveals the soft cheesecake, and it feels like you’re opening a delicious present!
6. Matefaimes
The word “matefaimes,” means to end hunger, which is exactly what this French pastry does. The first matefaimes was actually a savory pastry made with potatoes. They were given to farmers and workers to eat during their long work hours. Over time the pastry became sweeter with additions like milk and sugar.
These days, matefaimes are more commonly made with apples instead of potatoes. You can still find the traditional potato version, but more people seem to enjoy it with apples. Regardless of which you choose, matefaimes is one of the most fulfilling French pastries you’ve never heard of. Munch on one the next time you’re super hungry!
7. Cremet d’Anjou
This is likely the most difficult French pastry to get your hands on! Cremet d’Anjou is a soft and delicate dessert that has been likened to eating clouds. However, because they are such a fragile pastry, the cremet d’anjou cannot be transported too far. If you want to try this dessert, you will have to visit the city of Loire. It is well worth the trip though.
Cremet d’Anjou was made in the 1700’s by Marie Reneaúme, and has only continued to grow in popularity. It is made by folding cheese into egg whites and cream, making a savory but sweet concoction. Take a trip to Loire and try this rare French pastry.
Summary
The famous French pastries we all know and love are incredible. But, there are so many French pastries that are overlooked. Each region has their own specialty, so it’s time to explore these hidden gem delicacies.
Though there are likely many other French pastries you’ve never heard of, try making the ones on this list first. You’ll see why France is so well-known for their pastries!
If you enjoyed this post, try reading 12 delicious French foods that you have probably never heard of.
