Getting ready to indulge in a sweet treat? Look no further than Cuba’s rich and decadent dessert scene! Known for their bold flavors, vibrant colors, and hearty portions, Cuban desserts are sure to satisfy your cravings. From creamy flans to moist cakes, tangy pastries to crunchy cookies, the island has a treasure trove of sweet treats just waiting to be devoured.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouth-watering Cuban dessert recipes that are sure to transport you to the sun-kissed streets of Havana. From classic favorites like Tres Leches Cake and Coconut Flan, to creative twists like Churros with Dulce de Leche and Merenguitos Cubanos, we’ll showcase the best of Cuba’s sweet tooth culture.
Classic Cuban Flan
A creamy, caramel-topped dessert that’s a staple of Cuban cuisine, flan is an easy-to-make delight that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, and whole milk. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in salt, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small cups.
5. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the dishes.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Tres Leches Cake Cuban Style
This moist and creamy cake is a classic Cuban dessert that combines the richness of three types of milk (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream) with the simplicity of sponge cake. The result is a delightful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 can (14.5 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
9. Poke holes all over the cake with a skewer or fork.
10. Pour milk mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it’s fully saturated.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pastelitos de Guayaba
These bite-sized pastries are a classic Latin American treat, filled with the sweet and tangy flavor of guava. Perfect for a snack or dessert, Pastelitos de Guayaba are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup guava paste (or jam)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the guava paste to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each).
5. Flatten each ball slightly with your fingers.
6. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
7. Fry the pastelitos in batches, turning them occasionally, until golden brown (3-4 minutes per batch).
8. Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total, including frying time.
Arroz con Leche Cubano
This traditional Cuban dessert is a staple at many family gatherings and celebrations. With its creamy texture, sweet flavor, and comforting aroma, it’s no wonder Arroz con Leche Cubano remains a beloved treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and creamy.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Churros with Dulce de Leche
Enjoy the sweet union of crispy fried dough and rich caramel in this classic Spanish dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Dulce de Leche (store-bought or homemade)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth.
4. Pipe dough through a star-tip piping bag or a plastic bag with a corner cut off.
5. Fry churros in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels. Dust with powdered sugar.
7. Serve warm with Dulce de Leche for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bunuelos de Viento
These crispy, sweet fritters are a staple in Mexican cuisine, typically enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations. Today, we’ll learn to make these delightful treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add sugar to the dry mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Add milk and mix until a smooth batter forms.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain fritters on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes per batch.
Coconut Flan
Coconut Flan Recipe
A classic dessert that combines creamy coconut custard with a caramelized sugar crust, Coconut Flan is a tropical treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and unsweetened shredded coconut. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Gradually add the warm coconut mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Torrejas Cubanas
A classic Cuban breakfast dish, Torrejas Cubanas are sweet and crispy French toast-like treats that combine eggs, milk, and bread with a hint of cinnamon and sugar. This recipe yields 4-6 servings.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of white bread
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar while still warm.
6. Serve warm, dusting with powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan con Lechosa
A classic Puerto Rican dish, Pan con Lechosa is a sweet and savory sandwich that combines the flavors of roasted plantains with ham or bacon. This simple recipe yields a delicious and satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe plantains
– 1/2 pound cooked ham or bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt to taste
– 4 slices of white bread
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch rounds.
3. Place the plantain slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each slice.
4. Roast the plantains in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until they’re caramelized and slightly tender.
5. In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced ham or bacon and cook until crispy.
6. Toast the bread slices until lightly browned.
7. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading a layer of roasted plantain on each slice of toast, followed by a spoonful of the ham or bacon mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Casquitos de Guayaba
These sweet and tangy casquitos are a traditional Puerto Rican dessert made with guava fruit, sugar, and flour. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a unique gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup guava fruit, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped guava fruit, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the guava is soft (about 10 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in the salt and flour. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Once cooled, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the casquitos until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
5. Drain on paper towels and serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes, including preparation time.
Pudín de Pan Cubano
This traditional Cuban dessert is a moist and flavorful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with stale bread, eggs, milk, and spices, it’s an easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add the bread cubes to the wet ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the bread is evenly coated.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Coquitos
A refreshing twist on traditional coconut shrimp, these bite-sized Coquitos are perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together heavy cream, shredded coconut, sugar, and salt.
2. Dip each shrimp into the coconut mixture, then roll in panko breadcrumbs to coat.
3. Dip coated shrimp into beaten egg and then roll again in panko breadcrumbs.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry shrimp in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Merenguitos Cubanos
A classic Cuban dessert, Merenguitos are crispy meringue cookies filled with a sweet and creamy coconut filling. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup egg whites (about 4 large eggs)
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar and egg whites until stiff peaks form.
3. Add cream of tartar and whisk until combined.
4. Spoon small mounds of the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, or until cookies are crispy and dry.
6. Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
7. To make the filling, mix together coconut, sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, and salt in a small bowl.
8. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the filling onto each meringue cookie.
9. Serve immediately or store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Boniatillo
Boniatillo Recipe
Boniatillo is a sweet and creamy dessert originating from the Caribbean island of Aruba. This rich and decadent treat consists of caramelized sweet potatoes, condensed milk, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can (14 oz) condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for about 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Scoop out the flesh and mash in a bowl.
4. In a saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture turns golden brown (about 5 minutes).
5. Stir in condensed milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Fold the caramel sauce into the mashed sweet potatoes until well combined.
7. Transfer the Boniatillo to a serving dish or individual cups. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Serves: 6-8 people
Helado de Mamey
This creamy dessert is a Mexican treat that combines the sweetness of mamey sapote with the richness of chocolate. Prepare to be delighted by this unique and delicious helado (ice cream) flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons mamey sapote puree
– 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt until the sugar is dissolved.
2. In a separate bowl, melt the cocoa powder in the microwave for 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Add the melted cocoa to the cream mixture and whisk until combined.
4. Stir in the mamey sapote puree and chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once set, scoop and serve.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on ice cream maker)
Natilla Cubana
A creamy and sweet Cuban dessert, Natilla Cubana is a classic treat that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the Natilla thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in unsalted butter until melted. Season with salt to taste.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pastel de Mango
Combine the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweetness of mango and you’ll have a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup mango puree
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon orange juice
• Cinnamon and nutmeg for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add mango puree, beating with a fork until dough comes together.
5. Roll out dough on floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Transfer dough to a 9-inch pie dish and trim edges to fit.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and orange juice.
8. Pour egg mixture into pie crust and smooth top.
9. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Yemitas
A traditional Mexican dessert, Yemitas are crispy cookies filled with a sweet and creamy filling. This recipe is a simplified version of the classic treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Filling ingredients (see below)
Filling:
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or circles).
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely.
8. Prepare filling by whisking together sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
9. Sandwich a spoonful of the filling between two cooled cookies.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweetest side of Cuba with these 18 authentic dessert recipes! From classic flan and tres leches cake to coconut flan, churros, and more, this collection of traditional Cuban desserts will transport your taste buds to the island. With a focus on local ingredients like guava, mango, and coconut, these sweet treats are sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re looking for a unique dessert to impress friends or a nostalgic taste of home, this article has got you covered with a range of recipes that showcase the best of Cuban baking and desserts.
