Dessert

Origin and evolution

The concept of dessert and its historical evolution date back to ancient civilizations, where sweet foods had a place in celebrations and rituals. Throughout history, desserts have undergone a significant transformation, influenced by cultural factors, available ingredients, and technological advances.

In ancient times, Egyptians already enjoyed desserts that included honey and fruits . The Romans also had a tradition of serving fresh and dried fruits, as well as pastries sweetened with honey. In the Middle Ages, in Europe, desserts began to include ingredients such as sugar and spices, although these products were considered luxuries and were reserved for the nobility.

During the Renaissance, access to exotic ingredients from other parts of the world, thanks to trade routes, enriched the diversity of desserts. The introduction of refined sugar to Europe in the 17th century had a significant impact on baking, allowing for the creation of a wider variety of sweets and cakes .

The Industrial Revolution brought technological advances that facilitated the mass production of ingredients such as sugar and flour, making desserts more accessible to the middle class. In the 19th century, pastry making became a distinguished culinary art , with the creation of more elaborate recipes and the opening of the first specialized shops.

With the arrival of the 20th century, globalization played a crucial role in the evolution of desserts. The dissemination of recipes and culinary techniques through the media and migration led to the fusion of gastronomic traditions from different parts of the world. Desserts such as Italian tiramisu, Latin American tres leches cake or Japanese mochi became examples of the global influence on pastries .

Dough based

Cake : a dessert that is characterized by having a dough base, which can be shortcrust or puff pastry, and is filled with different ingredients such as fruits, cream, chocolate or nuts. They can be sweet or savory and stand out for their versatility and variety of flavors. They are popular at celebrations and special events, and each culture has its own interpretation of this delicious dessert;
cookies : small portions of baked sweet dough. They can vary in texture, from crunchy to soft and chewy, and may contain ingredients such as chocolate, nuts, oats, or fruit. They are prized for their convenience and are a popular accompaniment to drinks such as tea or coffee. Additionally, they are a beloved snack option for people of all ages;
muffins : small individual buns, similar to cakes, but generally denser and more compact. They can be made in a variety of flavors, such as blueberry, chocolate, carrot, or walnut. They are popular for breakfast or as a snack and are often enjoyed in both sweet and savory versions;
macarons : a type of French cookie made with almonds, sugar, and egg white. They are characterized by having a crunchy texture on the outside and a soft, creamy filling in the center. They come in a variety of colors and flavors, and their elegant presentation makes them popular at sophisticated events and as special gifts;
crepes : a type of thin, light cake, originating in French cuisine. They are made from a liquid dough of flour, eggs and milk, and cooked in a flat pan. They can be filled with a wide range of ingredients, such as fruit, chocolate, cream or even savory ingredients. They are versatile and can be enjoyed both as a dessert and as a main dish;
• sponge cake : a type of light, fluffy cake made with ingredients such as flour, eggs, sugar, and butter. It can have a variety of flavors, and its texture is ideal for absorbing syrups or glazes. It is a classic in baking and can be served alone or as a base for other more elaborate desserts;
• churros : a fried delicacy of Spanish origin, made with a dough of flour, water and salt that is cooked until it obtains a crispy texture on the outside and soft on the inside. They are traditionally sprinkled with sugar and served with hot chocolate for dipping ( chocolate con churros ). They are popular at fairs, markets and as an indulgent dessert. Their elongated shape and delicious flavor make them irresistible to many sweet lovers.

Chocolate

• Brownie – An American dessert characterized by its dense, moist texture. Made with ingredients such as chocolate, butter, sugar, eggs and flour, it often contains nuts or chocolate chips to add texture and flavor. It is cooked in a rectangular mold and cut into squares or rectangles. Brownies are loved for their irresistible combination of chocolate flavors and juicy texture;
• Chocolate Cake – A classic enjoyed around the world. This delicious creation is made with flour, cocoa powder, sugar, eggs and other ingredients, depending on the recipe. It can be topped with frosting, whipped cream, or sprinkled with powdered sugar. Its versatility makes it a beloved dessert at celebrations and special occasions;
• truffles – small round, soft treats made from melted chocolate, cream and butter. The mixture is cooled and then formed into small balls that may be coated with cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or grated chocolate. They are luxurious and enjoyed as an indulgent bite or given as gourmet gifts;
• molten chocolate – a special dessert featuring a liquid center of melted chocolate . The cake batter is cooked so that the outside is firm, but the center remains runny and creamy. When you break the cake, the melted chocolate flows out;
• cookies : small portions of sweet dough that are baked to a crispy or soft texture, depending on preference. They may include ingredients such as chocolate chips, nuts, oats or raisins. They are versatile and can be enjoyed with milk, coffee or simply as a delicious snack.

With fruits

• Red fruit tart : an exquisite dessert that stands out for the combination of fresh berries such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries. The base of the cake is usually a shortcrust or puff pastry, and it is filled with a mixture of fresh red fruits and a soft cream or gelatin. It is known for its vibrant colors and its balance between the acidity of the fruits and the sweetness of the filling;
• Apple Crumble – A comforting and simple dessert. It consists of layers of cut apples, usually mixed with sugar and cinnamon, covered with a crumbled mixture of flour, sugar and butter. When baked, the top takes on a crispy texture while the apples cook until tender. It is commonly served hot and can be accompanied with ice cream or whipped cream;
• Pumpkin Pie – A classic during the fall season. Its filling is made with pumpkin puree, mixed with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. This filling is placed on a dough crust and baked until set. It is often served with whipped cream or ice cream;
• peach pie : the dough, whether shortcrust or puff pastry, is filled with slices of fresh or syrupy peaches. Sometimes a mixture of sugar and cinnamon is added to enhance the natural flavor of the peaches. This cake is refreshing and perfect to enjoy during the warmer months;
• Strawberry pie – The pie base can vary, from sponge cake to shortcrust pastry. Strawberries, often sliced ​​or pureed, are placed on top of the dough and may be accompanied by a pastry cream or glaze. It's a popular choice in the spring and summer when strawberries are in season;
• apple pie : with a shortcrust or puff pastry base, it is covered with slices of apples seasoned with cinnamon and sugar. Some versions also include a layer of cream or applesauce. Bake until the apples are tender and the dough is golden. It is often served hot, accompanied by ice cream or whipped cream.