In Barcelona's Born neighbourhood, a new shop called Sucre Cremat is bringing attention back to the traditional Catalan dessert, crema catalana. Located on a corner behind the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar, the establishment offers the iconic recipe in a take-away format with various toppings and related products.
"The idea is a mix between a Catalan souvenir and gastronomy," Ingrid, one of the shop's workers, told Catalan.News. Customers can enjoy the dessert while exploring the city or take it home. Ingrid explained that the goal is also cultural, stating, "We wanted people to actually try Catalan culture."
Reclaiming Catalan Identity in El Born
The concept for Sucre Cremat emerged partly in response to the changing character of the Born neighbourhood. In recent years, the area has seen a rise in internationally inspired dessert shops, ranging from donut stores to tiramisu bars. "There are shops for everything here," Ingrid said, "But there wasn't a place like this, centred around a traditional Catalan product that is truly artisanally made."
The shop focuses on authentic crema catalana, traditionally served in small, shallow ceramic dishes known as 'cassoletes'. Ingrid noted that many visitors initially confuse it with French crème brûlée. However, crema catalana is lighter and more citrus-based, flavoured with lemon, orange, and cinnamon, while crème brûlée uses cream and vanilla. "The only thing they really share is the caramelised sugar on top," she explained.
Staff members regularly explain the dessert's history and ingredients to visitors, with recipes and cultural information displayed throughout the store. The delicacy is caramelised on the spot in front of customers using a modern version of the traditional hot iron paddle, or 'pala de cremar'. Each serving is topped with a 'carquinyoli', a traditional Catalan almond biscuit known for its dry, crunchy texture.
A Taste of Childhood for Locals
"It's not just a dessert," Ingrid said. "For Catalans, it's something we've eaten since childhood." While tourists make up a significant portion of the clientele, locals have also embraced the shop. Many Catalans express surprise to find a business in such a tourist-heavy area dedicated to authenticity. "People expect it to be like the typical tourist stores," she commented, "Then they realise we really care about the product."
The recipe itself remains traditional, but customers can customise their dessert with toppings such as pistachio, raspberry, Lotus biscuit, and orange with chocolate. Sucre Cremat has also expanded the crema catalana flavour into other products available in the shop, including coffee drinks, beer, ice cream, and traditional Catalan liquors. "This store has pure Catalan essence," Ingrid concluded.
