Yearning for a getaway that tantalizes your taste buds? Look no further!
I have compiled a list of 15 Caribbean dessert recipes that will whisk you away to sun-kissed shores.
These treats, from luscious fudge to irresistible flan, will infuse a touch of island magic into your home.
1. Jamaican Cornmeal Pudding
I am a huge fan of having cake for breakfast, especially a creation as heavenly as this. Reviewing the ingredient list, everything is fairly similar to a porridge recipe.
The only real change here is that you bake this recipe. The cornmeal makes for an almost cornbread feel that gets wonderfully thick in the oven. Moreover, using coconut milk and skipping eggs means this can be vegan-friendly.
2. Black Cake (Caribbean Christmas Cake)
Don’t be deceived by the name; this fruity, nutty, rum-soaked creation is divine. It gets its name from the dark rum that’s used, and I want to use brown sugar to pump up all the tastes.
I also soak my fruit in the rum so that the flavor really comes through. This cake is dense and could use an hour-and-a-half in the oven.
3. Coquito Cheesecake (Coconut Rum Cheesecake)
Coquito is a Puerto Rican coconut holiday drink. If you have not tried it, you are missing out. It is a level above traditional eggnog and surprisingly easy.
It becomes a cheesecake with a smooth, creamy, cozy essence. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and all-spice make their way into the filling, not to mention a dreamy coquito topping.
4. Jamaican Toto (Caribbean Coconut Cake)
Coconut fanatics, take notice!
Plenty of recipes use coconut milk or toasted coconut, but it’s rare to see coconut as the main attraction. This cake is a game changer. The essence of coconut is featured, and it uses coconut milk along with toasted coconut on the inside.
For an extra bit of something, think about trying a vanilla-coconut glaze.
5. Puerto Rican Flan de Queso (Cheese Flan)
Flan is often given a hard time, but I’m not sure why. I’m not sure if people assume it is too easy, or the caramel on top intimidates them.
But I admire the creamy custard outcome. When mixed with cream cheese for a faux-cheesecake flavor, I am the first in line for a slice.
To make it as silky smooth as possible, mix everything well, and then run it through a strainer to take care of any lumps.
6. Tamarind Balls
Tamarind makes for quite a memorable experience in your mouth. It is simultaneously sweet and sour, which inspires strong reactions from people.
I happen to savor it and make sure to always have some of the paste on hand. You should be able to find it in Asian markets or in the international section of your local grocery.
7. Coconut Sugar Caramelized Plantains
When you need a lighter treat with less calories, this is tailor-made for you.
Fried plantains are really good and surely a better alternative than a slice of rum cake. Still, they’re sweet and caramelized and just a little sinful, especially with a scoop of ice cream.
You can source coconut sugar in most large supermarkets or in grocers that focus on health.
8. Simple Besitos de Coco (Coconut Macaroons)
Were these a big part of your childhood? I just love their simplistic nature.
While I grew up with a version that used egg whites, I am fond of this recipe. The condensed milk enhances the overall sweetness and an extra level of chew to the cookie I appreciate.
9. Belizean Fudge
Belize has been high on my list of destinations, and I intend to get there at some point. I will make do with this creamy fudge in the meantime.
It is nice and quick to whip up, stirring everything over a low flame. This fudge is also loaded with some welcome bonuses. I admire how the raisins add chewiness alongside the warm nutmeg.
10. Chocolate de Maní (Peanut “Cocoa”)
I must own up that I had no clue that this recipe existed before today. I got right to work.
There’s no chocolate, which was disappointing at the start. But a quick sip was all I needed. This tempting roasted peanut and cinnamon beverage makes for a tasty stand-in for hot chocolate.
11. Caribbean Coconut Sugar Cakes
Does coconut sugar taste like the real deal? In reality, no. It is similar to brown sugar, just with some extra features, for example, zinc and iron.
These adorable cakes, or kind of cookies, are vegan and gluten-free and are a popular feature at holiday parties and celebrations. I appreciate the bright color, or you can skip the dye to keep it natural.
12. Jamaican Rum Cake
This cake comes with a bit of intrigue.
Yes, it may appear harmless featuring a lovely yellow cake typically mixed in a bundt pan featuring a soft texture. One taste is all you will need to be completely hooked. The tasty butter and rum glaze seeps into each inch, making it a bit boozy alongside supreme goodness.
13. Pudín de Pan (Caribbean Bread Pudding)
For all its simplicity, bread pudding is a long-time favorite dessert of mine. It is economical, utilizes basic ingredients that most have handy, and is really creamy.
This recipe has raisins that deliver great texture. Be sure to experiment with soaking them in rum.
14. Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri
The first thing I do on any getaway is locate the bar and order a fruity daiquiri. A tropical destination deserves a drink that fits the vibe.
But how do resorts make their daiquiris bursting with flavor? They use frozen strawberries as opposed to ice. They blend seamlessly with some fresh fruit and sugar syrup for utter perfection.