Although very simple to make, panellets contain centuries of tradition and culture in every bite. By making them, you are not only enjoying a delicious sweet but also keeping alive one of Catalonia's most beloved customs.
Panellets: The Traditional Autumn Sweet in Catalonia
Panellets are traditional sweets from Catalonia, enjoyed during the time surrounding Castanyada, a festival held on 1st November, coinciding with All Saints' Day. These small morsels of marzipan, usually covered with pine nuts, form part of Catalonia's gastronomic heritage and are enjoyed in the company of roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes during this celebration.
The origin and tradition of panellets and the Castanyada
The Castanyada is a festival that has its roots in ancient celebrations of the dead, and it is believed that it was originally related to funeral rites. It is said that the bell ringers, who were in charge of ringing the bells at night to remember the dead, needed food to give them energy to last through the night. Panellets, along with chestnuts and sweet potatoes, other typical seasonal products, were ideal as they were high in calories and easy to preserve.
Over time, this celebration has evolved and, although it has retained its connection with All Saints' Day, it has become a festive, family occasion on which to enjoy typical autumn products. Panellets are made with ground almonds, sugar and egg white, and although the most popular version is made with pine nuts, they can also be made with coconut, quince, coffee or chocolate.
Today, the Castanyada is still a very important festival in Catalonia, where it coexists with the imported Halloween. Families and friends gather to eat roasted chestnuts, panellets and sweet potatoes, often accompanied by a glass of muscatel, a sweet wine.
