Bolo do Caco: The Soul of Madeira’s Bread

If there’s one food that truly represents the heart of Madeira, it’s Bolo do Caco. This soft, round flatbread is more than just a local specialty — it’s a tradition passed down through generations, made with love and shared with friends and family.

At Casa da Nati, Bolo do Caco is at the center of our workshop experience. Guests don’t just taste it — they make it, by hand, from start to finish.

What is Bolo do Caco?

Despite the name, it’s not actually a cake ("bolo" means cake in Portuguese). It’s a type of flatbread, traditionally made with flour, sweet potato, yeast, and salt. The dough is soft and pliable, and after rising, it’s shaped into thick discs and cooked on a flat basalt stone or iron plate — known locally as a “caco.”

The result is a warm, golden bread with a slightly crisp exterior and soft, chewy center. It’s often served slathered in garlic butter, or filled with local ingredients like cheese, chouriço, or even octopus.

A Hands-On Tradition

When you join us at Casa da Nati, you’ll roll up your sleeves and knead the dough yourself. We’ll guide you through each step — from mixing the ingredients to cooking the bread over the fire. It’s not just a recipe, it’s a ritual, and one we’re proud to share.

You’ll leave not only with delicious bread to enjoy, but also with the knowledge and confidence to make it at home — a true souvenir from Madeira that lasts much longer than any postcard.

More Than Bread

Bolo do Caco is best enjoyed warm, fresh off the griddle, and even better when shared. Whether as a simple snack or part of a full meal with Espetada, it’s a symbol of Madeira’s hospitality, simplicity, and flavor.

We can’t wait to share this special part of our culture with you.