April in Spain means one thing for those with a sweet tooth: Torrijas! This classic Easter treat is Spain’s closest version to American French toast, but with its own delicious twist. Try my son’s torrijas recipe and indulge in thick slices of bread soaked in warm, fragrant milk, coated in egg, and fried to golden perfection. Topped with a drizzle of honey or a dusting of cinnamon sugar, each bite is pure bliss. And if you’re visiting Madrid during Easter, you’ll find torrijas everywhere—from cozy neighborhood bakeries to upscale restaurants, each offering its own unique take on this beloved Spanish treat.
A New Easter Tradition: My Son’s First Homemade Torrijas
This year, torrijas took on a special meaning in my home. My teenage son decided to make them from scratch for the first time, and I couldn’t have been prouder. He carefully followed a traditional recipe, paying attention to every detail—soaking the bread just right, ensuring the egg coating was even, and frying them to achieve that perfect golden-brown crispness. Watching him take charge in the kitchen was a delight, and the results? Absolutely amazing!
He even experimented with different toppings—some classic with sugar and cinnamon, others with a hint of orange zest or a drizzle of local honey from Madrid´s Sierra. Each variation brought out new flavors, and we couldn’t decide which was our favorite. This experience has now become a new torrijas Easter tradition in our home, and I have a feeling he’ll be making torrijas every year from now on!
What Makes Torrijas So Special?
Torrijas are a staple of Semana Santa (Holy Week) in Spain, but their history goes back centuries. Originally created as a way to use up stale bread, this humble dish has evolved into a must-try Spanish dessert. Unlike American French toast, which is often served for breakfast, torrijas are typically enjoyed as a sweet snack or dessert, especially during Easter. The texture varies depending on the method—some versions are custardy and soft, while others have a crispier exterior.
These days, around this time of year, nearly every bakery offers a special “torrijas bread” like the one in the picture, made specifically for crafting the perfect Easter treat.
How to Make Them: My Son’s Perfect Torrijas Recipe
If you’d like to recreate this delicious treat at home, here’s a simple and authentic torrijas recipe:
Ingredients:
1 loaf of day-old bread (or special torrijas bread if available)
2 cups whole milk (or substitute with sweet wine for a traditional twist)
1 cinnamon stick
2-3 strips of lemon or orange peel
2-3 tablespoons sugar
2 eggs
Olive oil (for frying)
Honey or cinnamon sugar (for topping)
Instructions:
Infuse the Milk: In a saucepan, heat the milk with the cinnamon stick, citrus peel, and sugar over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Soak the Bread: Slice the bread into thick pieces and place them in a shallow dish. Pour the warm, infused milk over the bread and let it soak for a few minutes until soft but not falling apart.
A note about the bread: It should be firm, slightly dry, and have a dense, “bready” texture with minimal hard crust. This helps it absorb the milk mixture without falling apart. White bread is not good for this.
Coat in Egg: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Carefully lift each soaked slice and dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring both sides are coated.
Fry to Perfection: Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry each slice until golden brown on both sides. Remove and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
A note about frying: Now’s not the time to cut corners or try to make this “healthy.” Be generous with the oil—your pan should have about a quarter-inch depth to achieve that perfectly crispy finish. A good torrijas recipe relies on simple, natural ingredients—rich in protein, carbs, and good fats. Plus, it’s a dessert—so enjoy it guilt-free! If you prefer to skip olive oil, canola or vegetable oil works well for a more neutral flavor.
Sweeten: Drizzle with honey or sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Serve warm and enjoy!
If you’re visiting Madrid in April, don’t miss out on trying different styles of torrijas. Some bakeries use a little of wine added to the milk for soaking, creating a richer and more complex flavor. Others add anise or citrus zest for a fresh twist. Whether you prefer them light and fluffy or dense and creamy, there’s a torrija for every taste.
Exploring Madrid’s Sweet Side on a Walking or Tapas Tour
One of my favorite parts of leading tours in Madrid is introducing visitors to authentic local Madrid flavors. My Madrid walking tours and tapas tours are designed to immerse travelers in the city’s culinary scene, and Easter time is perfect for tasting torrijas. If you’re a foodie, my tapas tour will take you to some of Madrid’s best-loved spots for traditional and modern Spanish bites. And yes, we can absolutely stop at a pastry shop to try torrijas!
Even when I lead family-friendly tours, I find that teenagers—like my son—love trying new foods. There’s something special about watching young travelers experience Spanish cuisine for the first time, whether it’s their first bite of jamón ibérico or a warm, cinnamon-dusted torrija. I love having teens on my tours because they bring a fresh perspective and excitement that makes the experience even more enjoyable.
When I lead Rick Steves’ Madrid tours, one of the highlights for tour members is stepping into local bakeries and pastry shops. These charming spots are not just about food; they’re an opportunity to practice Spanish with friendly shopkeepers. My guests love asking for “una torrija, por favor” and seeing the different varieties available. It’s a fun, interactive way to connect with Madrid’s culture while indulging in one of its most beloved seasonal treats.
Each bakery has its own take on torrijas, and some even get creative with gourmet variations, such as chocolate-covered torrijas or ones infused with coffee flavors. I always encourage visitors to try different styles because you never know which one will become your favorite!
Need Help Navigating Madrid? Try an Orientation Tour
If you’re new to Madrid, one of the best ways to get started is with my orientation tour. This highly requested tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want to feel confident exploring the city. I meet you at your hotel, provide essential tips on transportation, recommend local dining spots, and help you get acquainted with Madrid’s layout.
This tour is also available as an online travel consultation, where I help you plan your Madrid itinerary before you even arrive. Whether in person or online, this service ensures you maximize your time and avoid common tourist pitfalls.
Plan Your Madrid Adventure
Madrid is an incredible city year-round, but there’s something extra special about visiting during Easter. The city comes alive with Holy Week processions, seasonal treats, and a festive atmosphere that’s truly unique. Whether you’re here for the culture, the food, or simply to explore, I’d love to help make your experience unforgettable.
From Madrid walking tours to tapas tours and family-friendly experiences, I offer a range of guided tours to suit every type of traveler. And if you’re visiting in April, don’t forget to try a torrija—it’s a taste of Spain’s rich culinary heritage in every bite!
Want to book a tour or a travel consultation? Get in touch, and let’s plan the perfect Madrid experience for you!
