Cuberdon: the 100% Belgian sweet legend
The cuberdon is undoubtedly the most mysterious and iconic candy of Belgium. This small purple cone, with a soft center and raspberry flavor, is a must-try for anyone looking to discover the true taste of our sweet heritage. Its crunchy shell encases a deliciously syrupy interior, providing a unique sensory experience that instantly transports you back to childhood, craftsmanship, and tradition.
Origins: between folklore and chance
The history of the cuberdon is shrouded in mystery. Two hypotheses compete to claim its origin. The first tells of a member of the clergy in the Bruges region, inspired by the shape of his hat, who supposedly invented this candy in the 19th century – hence the endearing nicknames of "priest's hat" or "nun's belly." The second version refers to the chance discovery of a Ghent pharmacist, De Vynck, who, in 1873, allegedly forgot a syrupy medicinal preparation in a corner and noticed after a few days the natural formation of a shell, with a liquid center: the cuberdon was born, by a brilliant accident.
If its true origin remains a subject of debate, one thing is certain: the cuberdon has never left Belgium, to the point of being considered the national candy that is difficult to export due to its fragility (its gooey center crystallizes after three weeks). It can now be found in the best grocery stores and on festive tables, from Flanders to Wallonia.
An artisanal know-how jealously guarded
Making a cuberdon is much more complex than it seems. The recipe, which combines sugar, gum arabic, gelatin, and fruit flavors, primarily raspberry, requires slow cooking at low temperatures and delicate molding in starch. The process takes nearly a week and demands perfect mastery to keep the shell thin and the center soft.
Each producer keeps their secret, but tradition holds that the art of cuberdon remained artisanal for a long time before becoming a flagship product of Belgian delicacies. Belgian confectioners, particularly Geldhof, passionately uphold this knowledge.
Geldhof: passion, tradition, and innovation
Among the few recognized names in the world of cuberdon, the Geldhof confectionery — established since 1954 near Ghent — is the absolute reference. Led by the Van Damme family, the company combines artisanal methods with constant innovation, ensuring the authentic flavor and unique quality of each cuberdon. The company has risen to become the largest producer in the country, mastering quantities while maintaining a commitment to the traditional process.
At Geldhof, each cuberdon is made with carefully selected raw materials and a total respect for the original recipe. Geldhof's leadership has allowed the cuberdon to cross the borders of Belgium while maintaining its local soul. Today, the Geldhof brand embodies trust, artisanal excellence, and the taste of authenticity.
A candy that travels (almost) exclusively thanks to Belices.be
The rarity of cuberdon outside of Belgium adds to its magic. That’s why, at Belices.be, we have taken on the mission of sharing this sweet legend with expatriates and food lovers across Europe—and beyond. We deliver authentic Geldhof cuberdons throughout France, across the European Union, and even further! Thus, even far from home, it is possible to rediscover this unique taste experience thanks to a specialized and passionate shop.
Do you live in France or elsewhere in Europe? Order your Geldhof cuberdons now at Belices.be and receive the most authentic treat from Belgium at home!
