Best Bakeries in Barcelona

If you have a sweet tooth like me or just want to find the best breakfast croissant in the sea of possibilities in Barcelona, check out these amazing spots. I have tried so many different bakeries, dessert shops and the like before narrowing it down to my favorites. I often find that Spanish desserts aren’t as sweet as ours in the States, so don’t expect as much butter or sugar in everything. However, these pastries are pretty close. 😊

Demasie

Several weeks after moving to Barcelona, I casually mentioned to a friend that I was missing homemade cinnamon rolls. She said, “Well haven’t you been to Demasie?” uh no! I had passed one when I first arrived and saw the cookies in the display but failed to notice all the different flavors of cinnamon rolls available. Demasie has a rotating selection of rolls from blueberry, Kinder and original to raspberry and dulce de leche. They also offer about 8 different gourmet cookies daily. With a full coffee shop on hand too, grab a sweet treat and coffee to enjoy in the park! There are several locations throughout downtown, including two in the Born neighborhood.

Baluard

If you are looking for the best chocolate croissant or fresh bread in the city, find your nearest Baluard Panaderia. The original bakery is in Barceloneta, but they have expanded all throughout the city with several locations in l’Eixample and Sant Gervasi. Many of the spots have limited or no seating, so be prepared to take your goodies to-go! I've tried their cinnamon rolls too (pictured below) but think Demasie beats them!

Vivari

There are many low-cost café chains in Barcelona – from 365 and Syra Coffee to Vivari and Buenas Migas – not to mention every “bar” on the corner offer small tapas, coffees and beers. Sometimes, you don’t need (or want) a nicer place, but which one should you choose? If you are looking for cheap coffee or a quick ham and cheese croissant, my favorite spot is Vivari. They seem to have consistent quality and service with low prices. Vivari offers plenty of seating, with free Wi-Fi at some locations. Skip the Starbucks in Barcelona and visit a local Vivari.

Hofmann

Have you been following Barcelona accounts on Instagram? If so, you have likely already come across this famous bakery. When I visited in 2023, Pastisseria Hofmann was on my short list for their mascarpone croissant. They only had one location in el Born neighborhood with somewhat short (and strange) opening hours, but we made the trek for a midday treat. Today, Hofmann has expanded to Diagonal near Turo Park and provides tourist prices worthy of their beautiful showrooms (I mean bakeries). For €4.50 you too can enjoy a wonderful mascarpone-filled croissant! Not convinced? They also offer several other flavors, cinnamon rolls and many delicate baked goods, like miniature cakes, macaroons and chocolates.  You can decide if the croissant is worth the price, but I do think it’s worth a pass-by when you are in Born to at least see the Tiffany-blue bakery and admire their beautiful creations.

Boldu

Are you traveling with kids to Barcelona? Even if you are just a kid at heart, Boldu Bakery offers fun shaped donuts, called the Bolduman. Each one is filled or iced with unique flavors – from cheesecake and vanilla to the famous Dubai chocolate. They create special holiday treats like bunnies for Easter. Boldu’s slogan “stay sweet” is right on point with at least a dozen shops in Barcelona. When you need a little pick-me-up, stop at Boldu. Their fun designs and sugary treats will pep you right up!

Desserts in Barcelona

As I said before, I’ve found that Barcelona (and around Spain) tends to offer less sweet desserts and treats. Ordering a brownie or red velvet cake at a nice restaurant will usually leave me wanting. They don’t seem to use as much butter or sugar (which I’m sure is better for my waistline) but when you are looking for something sweet, where do you go in Barcelona? I have found two spots - the Holy Cookie and 99 Cheesecakes. I first discovered 99 Cheesecakes while walking around l’Eixample and noticed the long line at 6 pm. They offer whole cheesecakes to-go (best to order in advance through their Instagram) or single slices with optional toppings. The best value is a whole original cheesecake, but if you are just stopping for a quick treat, they offer little “meal deals” with a slice of cheesecake, various toppings and a drink. The Holy Cookie offers 4-6 rotating cookies, from pistachio and devil chocolate to scarlet seraphim (like a red velvet) and cookies’n’cream. Be prepared for U.S. prices as these are not cheap, but if you are craving something super sweet, check them out!  

There are many bakeries and dessert shops in Barcelona, but these are this Southern gal's favorite! From chocolate croissants to blueberry cinnamon rolls and more, there is something for everyone... and every time of day! Remember, most Spaniards only have a croissant and cup of coffee for breakfast (at 11 am), so don't feel bad about enjoying a sweet treat at 6 pm! That's the local way. :)

For more information about Barcelona, check out our other guides to learn about free museum entry, the best restaurants, day trips and more!

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