Palha de Abrantes, literally "Abrantes straw", is the best-known sweet in town and a fine example of Portuguese convent baking. Fine threads of egg yolk (fios de ovos) cover a soft, sweet egg filling, and the golden threads are what give it the look of straw.
Like many Portuguese convent sweets, it was born from the nuns' use of egg whites and the yolks they had left over. Today you find it in the pastry shops of the historic centre, by the piece or boxed to take home. It goes best with a strong coffee.
⭐ Must-try:
A fresh Palha de Abrantes with a bica (espresso) in a pastry shop in the old town.
Signature dishes
- Palha de Abrantes by the piece
- A box of Palha de Abrantes to take home
- Palha de Abrantes with a bica
Highlights
- The best-known sweet of Abrantes
- Rooted in the town's convent baking tradition
- Fios de ovos over a sweet egg filling
- Sold boxed, easy to take home
Dietary options
✓ Vegetarian
✓ Contains egg
✓ Not vegan
✓ Very sweet
Frequently asked questions
Where can I buy Palha de Abrantes?
In the pastry shops of the historic centre, where it is sold by the piece or in boxes to take away.
Can I take it home on a flight?
Yes. Pastry shops sell it boxed, and it keeps for a few days at room temperature.