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Tembleque (Coconut Pudding)
A traditional Puerto Rican dessert, Trembleque is a creamy and sweet coconut pudding that’s perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat. This simple recipe yields a rich and velvety pudding with a hint of tropical flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed coconut milk (see notes)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Remove from heat and stir in sweetened condensed coconut milk and vanilla extract.
3. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with toasted coconut flakes or chopped pecans if desired.
Cooking Time: None (cooking time is minimal as the mixture simmers briefly)
Flan de Queso (Cheese Flan)
Flan de Queso, also known as Cheese Flan, is a rich and creamy dessert that combines the smoothness of custard with the savory flavor of cheese. This indulgent treat is perfect for anyone who loves cheese and wants to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup grated queso fresco or Oaxaca cheese
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and cheese. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add the warm cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or cups. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Arroz con Dulce (Sweet Rice Pudding)
Sweet Rice Pudding Recipe (Arroz con Dulce)
This traditional Latin American dessert is a creamy and sweet delight, perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably leftover from the day before)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the rice is well coated with the creamy mixture (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Majarete (Corn Pudding)
A classic Latin American dessert, Majarete is a creamy corn pudding that’s sweet and comforting. This recipe yields a deliciously moist and flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn kernels, milk, sugar, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour into individual ramekins or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until set and lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Bienmesabe (Coconut and Almond Dessert)
Bienmesabe is a traditional Spanish dessert that combines the creamy richness of coconut with the crunch of almonds. This simple yet elegant dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream until smooth.
2. Stir in the shredded coconut, sliced almonds, honey, and salt until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional sliced almonds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Brazo Gitano (Puerto Rican Swiss Roll)
This classic Puerto Rican dessert is a show-stopper at any gathering, with its layers of moist sponge cake, creamy custard, and sweet strawberry filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Custard filling (recipe below)
– Strawberry filling (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add egg whites and cream of tartar; beat until stiff peaks form.
3. Gradually add milk and melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into a greased and floured jelly roll pan (15×10 inches).
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cake is golden brown.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before filling with custard and strawberry fillings.
Custard Filling:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
Strawberry Filling:
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Barriguitas de Vieja (Sweet Pumpkin Fritters)
A traditional Puerto Rican dessert that combines the warmth of pumpkin with the sweetness of sugar and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Add the mashed pumpkin and mix until well combined.
3. Beat in the egg until smooth.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the pumpkin mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Polvorones (Puerto Rican Shortbread Cookies)
A classic Puerto Rican cookie that’s crunchy on the outside and buttery on the inside, perfect for snacking or as a sweet treat. These shortbread cookies are made with simple ingredients and require minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon 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 the softened butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Quesito (Cream Cheese Pastry)
Quesitos are traditional Puerto Rican pastries filled with a sweet and tangy cream cheese filling, wrapped in a flaky pastry dough. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds, resulting in a deliciously addictive treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Spoon the filling onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape.
6. Seal the edges by pressing them with a fork.
7. Place quesitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pastelillos de Guayaba (Guava Turnovers)
These sweet and tangy pastries are a traditional dessert from Puerto Rico, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup guava jam or preserves
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Place 1 tablespoon of guava jam in the center of each circle.
7. Fold dough over filling to form a triangle or square shape, and press edges together to seal.
8. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Pastelillos de Guayaba!
Pan de Mallorca (Sweet Puerto Rican Bread)
This traditional Puerto Rican sweet bread is a staple in many households, especially during special occasions and holidays. Pan de Mallorca’s unique flavor and texture are achieved by using anise seeds, orange zest, and a hint of rum.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground anise
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon rum extract (or 1 tablespoon dark rum)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and anise.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, orange zest, and rum extract (or dark rum).
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in raisins and pecans (if using).
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Budín de Pan (Puerto Rican Bread Pudding)
This traditional Puerto Rican dessert is a sweet and comforting treat made with stale bread, rich milk, and a hint of spices. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, budín de pan is a must-try during the holiday season or as a special occasion dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, sugar, and melted butter.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the bread mixture and stir until well combined.
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
Suspiros (Meringue Cookies)
Suspiros (Meringue Cookies): A Light and Airy Treat
These crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside meringue cookies are a classic Argentine treat that’s easy to make and perfect for snack time or as a sweet addition to your favorite desserts.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
4. Add a pinch of salt and mix well.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
7. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Tarta de Coco (Coconut Tart)
This traditional Latin American dessert is a classic combination of sweet coconut, creamy custard, and flaky pastry. With its smooth texture and delightful flavor, Tarta de Coco is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, unsweetened shredded coconut, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
6. Let it cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Dulce de Lechosa (Green Papaya Dessert)
This traditional Latin American dessert is a refreshing twist on the classic papaya, sweetened with caramelized sugar and coconut milk. Dulce de Lechosa is a creamy, dreamy treat that’s perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green papayas
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Peel the papayas and remove the seeds. Cut into 1-inch chunks.
2. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, coconut, and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the papaya chunks and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until they’re slightly tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk, lime juice, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Besitos de Coco (Coconut Kisses)
These bite-sized treats are a delightful fusion of coconut, chocolate, and pecans, perfect for snacking or gift-giving. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these sweet and satisfying Besitos de Coco.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup melted semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar and unsweetened shredded coconut.
2. Stir in chopped pecans.
3. Melt the chocolate chips and shortening together in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
4. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the coconut mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Drop by spoonfuls onto parchment-lined baking sheets.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Serve and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (chilling time)
Piña Colada Cake
Escape to a tropical paradise with this moist and flavorful Piña Colada Cake, featuring the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple and coconut.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup crushed pineapple
– 1 cup coconut cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in crushed pineapple, coconut cream, and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Yield: Two 8-inch cakes
Coquito Cheesecake
Combine the flavors of Puerto Rico’s iconic Coquito cocktail with a rich and creamy cheesecake for a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup Coquito syrup (or to taste)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in Coquito syrup (start with 1/4 cup and adjust to taste).
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Limbers (Puerto Rican Ice Pops)
Beat the heat with these refreshing and flavorful ice pops, a beloved treat in Puerto Rico. Limbers are perfect for hot summer days or as a sweet snack any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed pineapple
– 1/4 cup crushed mango
– 1/4 cup crushed papaya
– 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the pineapple, mango, papaya, and lime zest.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
4. Pour into ice pop molds or small cups. Add a pinch of salt if desired (to bring out the flavors).
5. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Limbers!
Casquitos de Guayaba (Candied Guava Shells)
Casquitos de Guayaba are a beloved treat in many Caribbean countries, where guava shells are candied to perfection. This simple recipe yields a deliciously sweet and tangy snack that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup guava shells (fresh or dried)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, water, and lime juice in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the syrup reaches 225°F (110°C) on a candy thermometer.
3. Add guava shells to the syrup and stir to combine.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the shells are translucent and coated in the syrup.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your sweet Casquitos de Guayaba!
Summary
Indulge in the sweet flavors of Puerto Rico with these 20 mouth-watering dessert recipes! From classic treats like Flan de Queso and Arroz con Dulce to unique desserts like Bienmesabe and Barriguitas de Vieja, this collection has something for every taste. Discover the island’s rich cultural heritage through its beloved sweets, including traditional pastries, puddings, and cookies. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for inspiration, these authentic Puerto Rican dessert recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
