People have different preferences when traveling. Some explore a destination’s history through museums and archaeological sites, others immerse themselves in local culture by wandering markets, while another group seeks outdoor adventures. Some love long shopping trips, and others are drawn to tasting new cuisines. This guide focuses on Paris, specifically for dessert lovers, offering a glimpse of the city’s sweetest delights.
A Brief History of French Pastries
France has a long-standing tradition with sweets, dating back to the Middle Ages with simple confections made from honey, nuts, and dried fruits in religious establishments.
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Catherine de’ Medici introduced new pastries, including the macaron, to France in the 16th century.
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By the 17th century, sweets became a symbol of social status, elaborately presented in royal palaces like Versailles.
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The legendary chef Marie-Antoine Carême (18th–19th centuries) refined classic pastries like the éclair and puff pastry, created elaborate sugar designs, and popularized the tall white chef’s hat as a symbol of skill and hierarchy.
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The 19th century saw the rise of Viennoiseries, like croissants, introduced to Paris by an Austrian officer.
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In the 20th century, the Ladurée macaron became iconic, drawing tourists eager to taste its delicate flavors.
5 Must-Try French Desserts in Paris
Paris offers bakeries on nearly every corner, and tasting authentic French sweets is an experience that combines creativity, skill, and flavor.
1. Macaron
The macaron is a colorful, almond-meringue-based cookie sandwiched with creamy fillings. Tourists flock to Pierre Hermé and other local patisseries to sample flavors ranging from classic chocolate, caramel, and berry to modern creations.
2. Profiterole
3. Tarte Tatin
A caramelized upside-down apple tart, the Tarte Tatin features a buttery, flaky crust and is often served warm with ice cream. Created accidentally by the Tatin sisters in the 19th century at Maison Tatin in Lamotte-Beuvron, it remains a favorite today. In Paris, it’s famously served at Carette Tea Room.
4. Crème Brûlée
“Crème Brûlée” means “burnt cream” — a classic dessert of vanilla custard topped with a hard caramelized sugar crust. For the best experience, visit Le Potager du Père Thierry in Montmartre, Chez Janou for lavender-flavored variations, or Bouillon Racine for maple syrup versions.
5. Madeleines
These soft, shell-shaped sponge cakes have delighted dessert lovers for centuries. Popular spots include Le Comptoir de Madeleine, where they offer fresh, tender pieces, or upscale versions at Le Comptoir in the Ritz Paris and Mado à Paris, which add modern twists like chocolate, lemon, or pistachio flavors.
Paris is a haven for dessert enthusiasts. From the iconic macaron to classic madeleines, tasting these confections provides a sweet glimpse into French culinary artistry and tradition.
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