The “Little Noses” of Ghent, Belgium

An experiment in a pharmacy likely led to the creation of this beloved local treat.

Cuberdon

These little cone-shaped candies might be the most famous treat in Ghent. Cuberdons, sometimes called Neuzekes or Little Noses are maybe an inch and a half tall with a thin, chewy crust and filled with raspberry syrup.

No one is certain how these little treats were invented. Some say a monk invented them, but the most plausible explanation has a pharmacist in Ghent experimenting with a way to preserve medicines. During the course of his trials, the medicine developed a crusty shell while the inside remained a liquid.

This solid exterior and liquid interior what makes the Cuberdon so delightful.

Most bakeries in Ghent sell Cuberdons, including one of my favorites, Confiserie Temmerman. There’s also a charming Cuberdon cart just outside Bakkerij Himschoot, but they only sell big bags of Cuberdons and unless you’re an elementary school teacher I don’t know what you’re going to do with 18 Cuberdons.

These days Cuberdons come is just about every flavor imaginable, but the purple raspberry flavored ones are still the best, IMHO.

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 to cities around the world on Destination Eat Drink, including an in-depth eating and drinking guide to Portugal. Brent’s podcast, also called Destination Eat Drink, is available on all major podcasting platforms.