Typical Valencian sweets: history, tradition and artisan flavour

The Valencian Community has one of the richest sweet-making traditions in Spain. Thanks to its Arab heritage, its flowering almond trees and centuries of artisan know-how, Valencian sweets are today known and appreciated around the world. Here we tell you which ones are most representative and why they are worth knowing.

Jijona and Alicante nougat (PGI)

The two great Valencian nougats both hold Protected Geographical Indication status. Jijona nougat — soft and creamy, made from ground almonds, honey and sugar — and Alicante nougat — hard, with whole almonds set in wafer — originate in the Baix Vinalopó region and may only carry the PGI seal if they meet the quality requirements of the Regulatory Council.

At Turrones Ramos we have been making these nougats in Jijona since 1890, with the same recipe and no shortcuts.

Terronico: a Jijona speciality

Terronico is a Jijona speciality that many people outside the Valencian Community have never heard of. At first glance it resembles guirlache with its caramelised almond base, but its flavour is quite different thanks to toasted sesame seeds that set it apart. That slightly bitter, aromatic edge makes terronico a prized sweet among artisan nougat enthusiasts.

We make it in two formats: the classic 300 g slab and the thinner, crunchier wafer (torta). Same recipe, different thickness.

Peladillas from Alcoi

Peladillas are almonds coated in layers of cooked sugar forming a hard, glossy shell. Alcoi is the historical capital of peladillas in Spain, with a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages. They come in white, coloured, chocolate-coated and vegan varieties, and are a traditional gift at Valencian weddings and christenings as well as a Christmas staple.

Natural orange blossom honey

Valencia has one of Spain's strongest beekeeping traditions. Orange blossom honey, produced by bees feeding on the flowers of Valencian orange trees, is the most characteristic: mild, aromatic and pale, highly prized in artisan confectionery. At Turrones Ramos we use natural honey in our nougats and also sell it directly.

Valencian marzipan

Although Toledo is Spain's marzipan capital, Valencia has its own tradition, particularly in the Marina Alta region. Made from almonds and sugar, Valencian marzipan stands out for the intense aroma of the high-quality almonds grown locally.

A tradition worth preserving

All these typical Valencian sweets share the same origin: almonds, honey and sugar worked with patience and artisan craft. At Turrones Ramos we have been making them in Jijona since 1890, because we believe the best way to preserve a tradition is to keep making it by hand, with the same ingredients and the same care as always.