Puerto Rico, a US territory with a rich cultural heritage, is renowned for its mouth-watering desserts. The island’s cuisine is heavily influenced by Spanish, African, and indigenous Taino traditions, resulting in unique and delicious treats that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. From creamy puddings to flaky pastries, Puerto Rico’s dessert repertoire is incredibly diverse and full of flavor.
In this article, we’ll explore 19 traditional Puerto Rican desserts that you need to try. Whether you’re a fan of coconut, cheese, or fruit-based treats, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab a fork and get ready to indulge in the sweet side of Puerto Rico!
Tembleque Coconut Pudding
This traditional Dominican dessert is a creamy, dreamy delight that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich coconut flavor and silky texture, Trembleque Coconut Pudding is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sweetened condensed milk.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and add the unsweetened shredded coconut, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the pudding thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Flan de Queso
This rich and creamy dessert is a staple of Mexican cuisine, perfect for special occasions or as a decadent treat. Flan de Queso is a unique combination of cheese, cream, and sugar that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 large egg yolk
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and cheese. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the cheese melts.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Whisk in egg yolk and vanilla extract.
5. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Arroz con Dulce
Arroz con Dulce is a classic Latin American dessert that combines sweetened rice with spices and nuts to create a unique and delicious treat. This simple recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Raisins and/or dried fruit (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Stir in the melted butter and chopped nuts. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with raisins and/or dried fruit if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Bizcocho de Ron
This traditional Cuban recipe is a moist and flavorful cake soaked in a sweet rum syrup, perfect for special occasions or as a decadent treat. The combination of dark rum, brown sugar, and spices creates a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark rum (such as Myers’s or Bacardí)
– 1 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and spices.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by dark rum.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Polvorones de Piña
These buttery shortbread cookies infused with the sweetness of pineapple and spices are a classic Latin American treat. Perfect for snacking or as a dessert, Polvorones de Piña are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in crushed pineapple, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Majarete Corn Pudding
Majarete Corn Pudding: A Creamy Latin-Inspired Treat
This rich and creamy pudding is a popular dessert in many Latin American countries, particularly during special occasions. With its smooth texture and sweet corn flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and corn kernels.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in melted butter, salt, and egg yolks until well combined.
6. Pour the pudding into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until set.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brazo Gitano de Guayaba
Experience the rich flavors of Puerto Rico with this classic Brazo Gitano de Guayaba, a moist and creamy custard cake wrapped in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup guava jam
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Pastry dough (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and flour.
3. Add melted butter, guava jam, and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a greased and floured 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Roll out pastry dough to fit the top of the cake.
6. Place pastry over the cake and press edges to seal.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Brazo Gitano de Guayaba!
Quesitos de Guayaba
Quesitos de Guayaba are a classic Cuban dessert that combines the sweetness of guava with the flaky crust of a turnover. This recipe yields 6-8 pastries, perfect for sharing or enjoying all to yourself.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup guava jam
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into 6-8 equal squares.
4. Place 1 tablespoon guava jam in the center of each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle 1/8 teaspoon sugar over the jam.
6. Fold the pastry squares in half diagonally to form triangles, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tostones de Plátano Maduro
Tostones de Plátano Maduro: Crispy Fried Green Plantain Slices
In the Caribbean, Tostones de Plátano Maduro is a beloved snack that’s both crispy and flavorful. This recipe brings the authentic taste of Latin America to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 ripe green plantains
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or lime wedges for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Peel the plantains and cut them into 1-inch slices.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
3. Carefully place the plantain slices in the hot oil, being mindful not to overcrowd the skillet.
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the Tostones from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
6. Sprinkle with salt to taste. If desired, add garlic powder or squeeze lime juice over the Tostones.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes total
Barriguitas de Vieja
These crispy cookies are a beloved treat in many Latin American countries, particularly in Mexico. They’re easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the lard or shortening and use your fingers or a pastry blender to work it into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
4. Gradually add the milk and beaten eggs, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pastelillos de Coco
These sweet pastries are a classic Puerto Rican dessert, filled with a rich coconut cream and wrapped in flaky pastry. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, shredded coconut, and melted butter until smooth.
3. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of coconut cream mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling and press edges together to seal.
7. Place pastries on baking sheet lined with parchment paper; bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dulce de Batata
This traditional Latin American dessert is a rich and creamy sweet potato caramel that’s perfect for special occasions or as a unique treat. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this deliciously smooth and velvety confection.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes several times with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender.
3. Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
4. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
5. In a medium saucepan, combine the blended sweet potato, sugar, water, butter, and vanilla extract.
6. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown (about 15-20 minutes).
7. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Bienmesabe
Bienmesabe, a traditional Spanish dessert, is a sweet and nutty treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the richness of honey with the crunch of almonds to create a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup orange flower water
– 1 tablespoon rose water
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, almonds, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the orange flower water and rose water.
4. Let the bienmesabe cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Guava and Cream Cheese Empanadas
These sweet and savory empanadas combine the juicy flavor of guava with the richness of cream cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1/2 cup guava jam or preserves
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into crumbs.
3. Gradually add water until dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Spread guava jam and cream cheese mixture along one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
6. Fold other half over filling and press edges together with a fork.
7. Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar (if using).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coquito Tres Leches Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the tropical flavors of coquito, a Puerto Rican drink made with coconut milk, condensed milk, and evaporated milk. The addition of tres leches (three milks) takes this cake to new heights, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup evaporated milk
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°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, whisk together coconut milk, condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
7. Once cooled, poke holes all over the top of the cake with a skewer or fork.
8. Pour remaining coconut milk mixture evenly over the top of the cake.
9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Piña Colada Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and refreshing piña colada cheesecake, infused with the sweet flavors of pineapple and coconut. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, separated
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup coconut flakes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar, eggs, sour cream, crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
5. Pour cheesecake batter over crust and sprinkle with coconut flakes.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Casquitos de Guayaba
These sweet and crispy fritters are a popular dessert in Latin America, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a quick snack. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy these bite-sized treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups guava puree
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine guava puree, flour, and salt. Mix well.
2. Gradually add the vegetable oil, stirring until a thick batter forms.
3. Beat in the sugar and eggs until smooth.
4. Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Limber de Coco
A classic Latin American dessert, Limber de Coco is a creamy and sweet pudding made with coconut milk, sugar, and eggs. This simple recipe yields a smooth and velvety dessert perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup grated coconut
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and grated coconut. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Whisk in egg yolks, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Pour into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crema de Vie
Experience the rich flavors of France with this homemade Crema de Vie recipe, a creamy liqueur perfect for special occasions or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup vodka
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Add vodka, vanilla extract, and salt to the cooled cream mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into glass jars or bottles with tight-fitting lids.
5. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of sugar or a slice of orange.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Summary
Indulge in the sweet and rich flavors of traditional Puerto Rican desserts with these 19 mouth-watering recipes. From creamy puddings like Tembleque Coconut Pudding to decadent cakes like Coquito Tres Leches Cake, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Classic treats like Flan de Queso and Arroz con Dulce are joined by creative twists on traditional favorites, such as Guava and Cream Cheese Empanadas and Piña Colada Cheesecake. These beloved desserts are sure to satisfy your cravings and transport you to the vibrant island culture of Puerto Rico.
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