It is one of those sweets which reflect their place of origin. In this case, Graciosa Island, a small extension of land in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, only 13 kilometers long, where the highest point is just 398 meters high. But it is here, in a place where life is lived slowly surrounded by pastures and white painted houses, that we can find one of the most famous sweets of the Azores.
The quality of “Queijadas” of Graciosa is applauded by everyone and benefits from being manufactured with natural products, always respecting the rules of regional confectionary.
They are distinguished by their star shape, thin and crispy dough filled with eggs and milk. This product has a final delicate cinnamon flavor. This sweet was only available to the locals, but presently it is produced in larger quantities, with a quality certificate, sometimes reaching more than 3 thousand “Queijadas” daily. The name wasn’t always “Queijadas” of Graciosa. Until 25 years ago, the “Queijadas” of Graciosa were known as “Covilhete de leite” or “Queijada da praia”. The recipe was only known by a few housewives and was a usual presence in all festivities and family gatherings on the island.
It also said that there is a “secret” in the recipe that was never revealed to assure the uniqueness of this regional sweet. Presently, the product is exported to the markets of the archipelago, mainland Portugal, and the United States of America. They are manufactured in the Biosphere Reserve of Graciosa, included in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves, at the factory located in Vila da Praia. It should be said that the filling is prepared the day before and includes around 20 egg yolks.
The quality of “Queijadas” of Graciosa is applauded by everyone and benefits from being manufactured with natural products, always respecting the rules of regional confectionary.
To read edition 9 of our inflight magazine Azorean Spirit click here.
Visit the official Azores Tourism website at www.visitazores.com or access the app VisitAzores, available for download on the App Store or on Google Play.