Craving a getaway? Treat yourself to these 15 amazing Caribbean dessert recipes!
From creamy fudge to decadent cheesecake, these treats will transport your taste buds to a sun-soaked paradise.
Get ready to indulge in a symphony of tropical flavors right in your own kitchen!
1. Jamaican Toto (Caribbean Coconut Cake)
Calling all coconut fanatics! While some recipes use coconut milk or sprinkle in coconut flakes, this cake makes it the main attraction. It’s where coconut truly shines.
You’ll find coconut milk and toasted coconut within this cake. For an extra burst of flavor, consider drizzling a vanilla-coconut glaze.
2. Black Cake (Caribbean Christmas Cake)
Despite its name, prepare for a delicious blend of fruit, nuts, and rum. Its color comes from dark rum, and I like to use brown sugar to intensify the flavors. Adding to the rum component, I also soak all my fruit in the rum for a richer flavor.
This is a cake that will be fairly dense and requires around 90 minutes in the oven.
3. Coconut Sugar Caramelized Plantains
If you’re searching for something on the lighter side with fewer calories, this is the recipe for you. Although fried plantains are delicious, they’re certainly healthier than a slice of rum cake. Yet, they’re still sweet and caramelized and a bit decadent, especially if paired with ice cream.
Coconut sugar can be found in most large supermarkets or health food stores.
4. Tamarind Balls
Tamarind boasts a truly distinctive taste.
It manages to be both sweet and sour, often sparking diverse reactions. I’m a fan and consistently stock up on the paste whenever I spot it in stores. Typically, it’s available in Asian markets or in the international section of the grocery store near the Asian and Indian ingredients.
5. Puerto Rican Flan de Queso (Cheese Flan)
It seems flan often suffers from an image problem. I can’t figure out if people find it too basic, or if they feel intimidated to attempt it because of the caramel topping.
I personally adore its smooth, creamy texture. With the addition of cream cheese for a subtle cheesecake flavor, I’m always eager for a taste.
For a supremely silky result, ensure thorough blending and strain the mixture to eliminate any lumps.
6. Caribbean Coconut Sugar Cakes
Does coconut sugar actually impart a coconut flavor? Sadly, it does not. It shares similarities with brown sugar, while also offering trace amounts of zinc and iron.
These charming little cakes (or cookie-like treats) are both vegan and gluten-free. They’re often showcased during holidays and festive occasions.
While I admire the lively color, feel free to forgo the food coloring for a completely natural approach.
7. Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri
The first thing I do on vacation is head to the bar and indulge in a fruity daiquiri. What’s more perfect for a tropical getaway than a tropical cocktail?
What’s the secret to that incredible resort daiquiri flavor? They opt for frozen strawberries instead of ice. Blend them with fresh fruit and simple syrup, and the result is pure perfection.
8. Simple Besitos de Coco (Coconut Macaroons)
Did you also grow up enjoying these? Their simplicity is what I find most appealing.
While my family traditionally made them using egg whites, I’m particularly drawn to this version. The addition of condensed milk gives an extra dose of sweetness and creates an irresistible chewiness that keeps me coming back for more.
9. Jamaican Rum Cake
This is a cake that has a mischievous side. With its charming yellow color and typical bundt pan presentation, it appears quite innocent.
However, one taste will have you completely captivated. A sweet butter and rum syrup saturates every nook and cranny, giving it a slight boozy kick and enhancing its deliciousness.
10. Jamaican Cornmeal Pudding
I wholeheartedly support cake for breakfast, particularly when it’s this good.
Looking at the ingredient list, you’ll notice remarkable similarities to a porridge recipe. The distinction lies in baking; this recipe sets firmly enough to be sliced.
I particularly enjoy the inclusion of cornmeal, which creates a texture akin to cornbread that firms up when baked. Thanks to coconut milk and the absence of eggs, this pudding is also vegan.
11. Belizean Fudge
Belize is a place I’ve always wanted to go, and I’m determined to get there someday! But until that dream trip happens, I’ll enjoy this creamy fudge.
This recipe is pretty straightforward. You’ll simply mix all the ingredients over low heat.
And this fudge has some tasty additions, too! I enjoy the chewiness from the raisins combined with the warm taste of nutmeg.
12. Chocolate de Maní (Peanut “Cocoa”)
I must confess, this recipe was entirely new to me. Yet, as soon as I saw it, I wanted to make it immediately!
Initially, the absence of chocolate was a bit of a letdown. However, the first sip more than compensated.
This delightful beverage combines roasted peanuts and cinnamon, delivering a singular and satisfying substitute for traditional hot chocolate.
13. Pudín de Pan (Caribbean Bread Pudding)
Despite its simplicity, bread pudding has always ranked high among my dessert favorites. It’s economical, calls for items that are generally accessible, and delivers such a creamy texture.
This version incorporates raisins, which enhance the dish’s texture. Don’t hesitate to infuse them with rum!
14. Coquito Cheesecake (Coconut Rum Cheesecake)
Coquito, a classic Puerto Rican coconut holiday drink, is a must-try if you haven’t had it before. It surpasses traditional eggnog in both flavor and ease of preparation. Transforming it into a cheesecake creates a creamy and delightfully cozy delight.
The filling boasts cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, enhanced by an amazing coquito topping.