The pionono is Granada’s most iconic dessert: a soft rolled sponge cake soaked in syrup, topped with toasted cream and a hint of cinnamon, a legacy of Andalusian Arabic pastry. While many versions exist today, the authentic recipe lives on in Casa Ysla (Santa Fe), the birthplace of the pionono since 1897.

What is a pionono—and why is it so Granadan?

A pionono is a small, cylindrical cake: moist, aromatic, and the perfect companion to a coffee after a tapas route. Its shape and cream topping were originally a playful tribute to Pope Pius IX (Pio Nono in Italian)—a story as sweet as the dessert itself.

The origin in Santa Fe and Casa Ysla

The pionono was created by Don Ceferino Isla in Santa Fe, a small town just 10 km west of Granada where the Catholic Monarchs set their camp during the siege of Nasrid Granada. To this day, locals still drive to Santa Fe to buy trays of fresh piononos for family meals and celebrations.

Where (and when) to taste piononos in Granada

• Morning or afternoon: enjoy one with coffee at a traditional bakery.
• At sunset: combine it with a tapas tour around the Albaicín or Realejo districts.
• Santa Fe stop: try the original at Casa Ysla and take some home.

Experiences that connect: eBike, tapas and team building

At Andalucía Ebikes, we turn Granada’s flavors into active, authentic experiences:

eBike & Tapas Guided Tour (Granada)

Ride with a local guide through the Albaicín and Realejo, hear the story of the pionono, and finish with handpicked tapas and dessert. Perfect for couples, families, and groups.

Rent eBike (Nerja & Andalusia)

Prefer freedom? Rent an eBike in Nerja and explore Frigiliana, Maro, and coastal routes at your own pace. We’ll suggest the best foodie stops along the way.

Team Building with a sweet finale

Plan a corporate team building day with challenges, cultural activities, and a dessert tasting featuring the pionono. Unique, fun, and unforgettable.

👉 Ready to taste Granada on two wheels?
Book your eBike & Tapas Tour, rent an eBike, or design a team building experience with Andalucía Ebikes today.

3) FAQ (English, optimized for rich snippets)

What is a pionono?
A pionono is a small rolled sponge cake from Granada, soaked in syrup and topped with toasted cream and cinnamon.

Where can I try the original pionono?
The original pionono is found in Casa Ysla in Santa Fe, a small town near Granada.

Can I combine a pionono tasting with a tour?
Yes. Andalucía Ebikes offers eBike & Tapas Tours where you can taste the pionono after exploring Granada’s historic neighborhoods.

Is the pionono vegetarian?
Yes, the traditional pionono does not contain animal gelatin, making it suitable for vegetarians.

Do you offer team building experiences that include gastronomy?
Yes. We design corporate team building activities in Andalusia that include cultural challenges and local food tastings, pionono included.