The history of Areias stretches back to the 15th century when Portuguese explorers returned from their voyages laden with exotic spices and sugar from Asia and Africa. Cinnamon, renowned for its enticing aroma and medicinal properties, became a prized ingredient in many Portuguese dishes and desserts. Sugar, a precious commodity at the time, was used to create an array of delectable confections, including the beloved Areias.

Although Areias share a similar love for cinnamon and sugar with the iconic Pastel de Nata, their dough sets them apart. Made with a simple blend of flour, butter, eggs, baking powder, and lemon zest, the dough is meticulously rolled into small balls and coated with a tantalizing mixture of sugar and cinnamon. Baked to golden perfection, these little spheres emerge from the oven with a delightful crispiness that perfectly complements their sandy texture.

Areias offer not only a delectable taste but also versatility in flavor. By incorporating nuts, chocolate, or dried fruits into the dough, you can create delightful variations of this beloved dessert. Let's explore some notable versions:

Areias de Cascais: Hailing from the charming town of Cascais, near Lisbon, these Areias feature ground almonds in the dough and are adorned with candied cherries, adding an extra touch of visual and gustatory delight.

Areias de Sintra: Inspired by the enchanting town of Sintra, these Areias showcase ground hazelnuts in the dough and are elegantly dusted with powdered sugar, offering a delightful contrast to the traditional cinnamon coating.

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Areias de Leite: For those seeking a softer and creamier experience, Areias de Leite incorporate condensed milk into the dough, resulting in a luscious and velvety texture.

Areias de Chocolate: Chocoholics rejoice! Areias de Chocolate are crafted with cocoa powder-infused dough and adorned with delectable chocolate chips, delivering a double dose of chocolatey goodness.

Areias not only tantalize the taste buds but also lend themselves well to homemade creations and thoughtful gifts. They are straightforward to make and have an excellent shelf life, making them an ideal choice for indulging in home-baked delights or presenting as a heartfelt gesture.

Immerse yourself in the flavors and traditions of Portugal with Areias, a dessert that embodies the nation's rich culinary heritage. Whether you're savoring these delights with loved ones or offering them as a token of affection, Areias are sure to delight and leave a lasting impression.