10 Things You (Maybe) Didn’t Know About Our Crystallized Violets

Crystallized violets are one of those irresistible treats that, once tasted, are never forgotten. 

They are much more than just a sweet or a confection. Their color, delicate flavor, and almost artisanal production process make them something very special to share, gift, or simply indulge in.

Typical of Madrid, crystallized violets have their own story, secrets, and curiosities. And, of course, they are a part of our essence. To help you appreciate them as much as we do, here are some additional facts about them.

The Secrets of Crystallized Violets

Before we dive into these interesting facts about our crystallized violets, it's important to clarify a common misconception: crystallized violets are not the same as violet candies. While this beautiful flower and its aroma are the base, the preparation process is different, and naturally, so is the result.

To craft crystallized violets artisanally, the pistils must be removed from the flowers and then subjected to crystallization. This means they are coated with sugar, which, upon crystallizing, gives them their unique appearance and preserves the flower’s aroma.

We mentioned that crystallized violets are typical of Madrid and are sold in many establishments. However, the authentic ones are those made at La Violeta for over a hundred years. It was the founder of this century-old confectionery, Mariano Gil Fernández, who turned this flower into a delicacy.

Decades ago, the flowers used to make crystallized violets were harvested in the Madrid mountains and only at the end of winter. Today, this is no longer the case; the flowers come from nurseries, but their cultivation is done with the utmost care to retain their aroma.

Not only in cultivation but also in the making of these exquisite crystallized violets, we devote genuine care to every detail of the process. Everything is still done artisanally. Thanks to this, several generations have been able to—and continue to—enjoy the flavor, aroma, and delicacy of this tradition.

Crystallized violets are so exquisite that they have captivated palates of all kinds. Alfonso XIII used to buy them for his wife, Queen Victoria Eugenia.

Prominent figures in cultural, social, and political life, from Jacinto Benavente to General Millán Astray, have also fallen in love with crystallized violets and violet candies.

The fame of crystallized violets has crossed borders. Today, many tourists take home a packet of these delights as a sweet memento of their visit to the Spanish capital.

If you want to add a very special touch to a dessert or even a cocktail, crystallized violets are perfect. There are endless ways to enjoy them.