Malta’s delicious Honey Rings

Honey Rings were traditionally a Christmas treat. Today, they’re available all year round.

Honey Rings origin story

Honey Rings are a Maltese crunchy pastry filled with treacle (a kind of molasses that is a by-product of the sugar-making process). Spices like cinnamon, anise, clove, and citrus zest are added to the treacle to give a rich flavor.

The first known representation of a Honey Ring is from a painting by Pasquale Leonetti, a little known artist of possible Sicilian origin, in 1762. His works are displayed at the Curia refectory in Floriana and depict biblical scenes and many have food as a theme. If you want to see the painting, the refectory is open the public just once a year.

First known representation of Honey Rings (image: phoeniciamalta.com)

The circular shape was said to represent the connectivity of life.

Where to get Honey Rings

Today, Honey Rings are available year-round, not just at Christmas. Any bakery in Malta will have Honey Rings on offer. However, they’re best when they’re fresh. Stay away from the mass produced ones that are packaged in cellophane.

Honey Ring at Caffe Cordina (photo: Brent Petersen)

Caffe Cordina in Valletta has excellent honey rings. They also have many other pastries or as my Maltese friend Michael says, “proper cakes.”

About the Author

Brent Petersen is the Editor-in-Chief of Destination Eat Drink. He currently resides in Setubal, Portugal. Brent has written the novel “Truffle Hunt” (Eckhartz Press) and the short story collection “That Bird.” He’s also written dozens of foodie travel guides on Destination Eat Drink, including one for Malta,. Brent’s podcast, also called Destination Eat Drink, is available on all major podcasting platforms and is distributed by the Radio Misfits Podcast Network.