Puerto Rico is renowned for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and mouthwatering cuisine. But did you know that the island is also home to a plethora of delectable desserts? From creamy puddings to crispy pastries, each region has its own unique sweet treats that are sure to satisfy your cravings. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of Puerto Rican desserts, exploring 18 traditional recipes that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Tembleque (Coconut Pudding)
Trembleque, also known as Coconut Pudding, is a traditional Dominican dessert that’s creamy, sweet, and utterly delicious. This simple recipe yields a silky-smooth pudding that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Add to the saucepan and whisk to combine.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in shredded coconut and vanilla extract. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Flan de Queso (Cheese Flan)
A creamy and rich dessert that combines the smoothness of flan with the savory flavor of cheese, perfect for a unique treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (or other meltable cheese)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and egg yolks until well combined.
3. Stir in grated cheese and salt until dissolved.
4. Pour mixture into 6-8 ramekins or small cups.
5. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish filled with hot water to about halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
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.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Arroz con Dulce (Sweet Rice Pudding)
This traditional Puerto Rican dessert is a creamy, sweet delight that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying this rich treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon raisins (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Stir in the sugar, salt, and butter until dissolved.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Add raisins if using (optional).
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Majarete (Corn Pudding)
This traditional Mexican dessert is a creamy, sweet, and comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Majarete, also known as corn pudding, is a staple in many Latin American households.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together corn kernels, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
7. Serve warm, topped with a sprinkle of sugar or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bienmesabe (Coconut and Almond Dessert)
Bienmesabe is a traditional Spanish dessert that combines the richness of coconut with the crunch of almonds. This sweet treat is perfect for special occasions or as a delightful ending to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together coconut, sugar, and almonds.
3. Add honey and salt; stir until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve: At room temperature, garnished with additional sliced almonds if desired.
Brazo Gitano (Puerto Rican Swiss Roll)
This classic Puerto Rican dessert is a show-stopping treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. With its layers of flaky pastry, sweet coconut filling, and tangy guava glaze, Brazo Gitano is the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup guava jam or preserves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together coconut, butter, and sugar. Spread evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on both sides.
4. Roll up the pastry tightly, starting from one end. Curve into a circular shape and place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool before drizzling with guava glaze.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Barriguitas de Vieja (Sweet Pumpkin Fritters)
These sweet and crispy fritters are a traditional Latin American dessert, perfect for fall gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year. Made with roasted pumpkin, flour, and spices, they’re a delicious combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 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
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roast the pumpkin cubes until tender, about 30-40 minutes.
2. Let the pumpkin cool, then mash it in a bowl with a fork until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the mashed pumpkin and mix until combined.
5. Heat about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the pumpkin mixture into the hot oil, about the size of a walnut.
7. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
8. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
9. Dust with powdered sugar (if desired) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes to fry the fritters, depending on the number of batches.
Polvorones (Puerto Rican Shortbread Cookies)
A classic Puerto Rican treat, Polvorones are crumbly shortbread cookies that melt in your mouth. These buttery bites are a staple at every family gathering and fiesta.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of anise seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°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 crumbly dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough between two sheets of waxed paper to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Quesito (Cream Cheese Pastry)
This classic Mexican pastry is a sweet and savory delight. With its flaky crust, creamy filling, and delicate flavor, Quesitos are perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into crumbs.
4. Gradually add cream cheese until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, circles).
7. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water) and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pastelillos de Guayaba (Guava Turnovers)
Pastelillos de Guayaba are a classic Latin American dessert that combines the sweetness of guava jam with the flaky goodness of homemade pastry. These tender turnovers are perfect for snack time or as a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup guava jam
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add guava jam, mixing until dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares, about 3 inches per side.
5. Place a spoonful of guava jam in the center of each square. Fold pastry over filling to form a triangle or square shape, pressing edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Pan de Mallorca (Sweet Puerto Rican Bread)
A sweet bread that’s a staple in many Puerto Rican households, Pan de Mallorca is a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or as a snack. This traditional recipe combines the richness of milk, sugar, and eggs with the warmth of anise seeds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon anise seeds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm milk, beating until smooth.
3. Beat in egg and melted butter until well combined.
4. Add salt and anise seeds; mix until just incorporated.
5. Knead dough for 10 minutes until elastic and smooth.
6. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
8. Punch down dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Suspiros (Meringue Cookies)
Suspiros are a classic Argentinean cookie that is both crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. This recipe yields a deliciously simple treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Add the cream of tartar and salt; mix well.
4. Sift in the flour and fold gently until no streaks remain.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until dry and crisp.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Dulce de Lechosa (Green Papaya Dessert)
This traditional Filipino dessert is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, made with green papayas, condensed milk, and a hint of salt. The combination may seem unusual, but the result is a unique and delicious treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized green papayas
– 1 can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the papayas and remove the seeds.
2. Cut the papayas into small cubes and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to remove bitterness.
3. Drain the papaya cubes and rinse with cold water.
4. In a large bowl, combine the drained papaya cubes, sweetened condensed milk, and salt. Mix well until the papayas are evenly coated.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Just before serving, sprinkle sugar on top (if using).
7. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required. Simply prepare and chill the dessert as instructed.
Bizcocho de Ron (Rum Cake)
Bizcocho de Ron (Rum Cake)
A traditional Latin American dessert, this moist and flavorful cake is infused with the warm spices and rich flavor of rum.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dark rum (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. If using rum, stir it in at this point.
- Pour the batter into an ungreased 9-inch tube pan or Bundt pan.
- Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time:
45-50 minutes
Mantecaditos (Puerto Rican Butter Cookies)
Mantecaditos are a classic Puerto Rican cookie that melts in your mouth with its buttery flavor and tender texture. These sweet treats are perfect for a snack or dessert, and can be easily packed in a lunchbox or served at a party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.
4. Beat in the vanilla extract.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, rectangles, or use a cookie cutter).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
9. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tarta de Piña (Pineapple Tart)
A classic Latin American dessert, Tarta de Piña is a sweet and tangy pineapple tart that’s perfect for any occasion. With a flaky pastry crust and a creamy pineapple filling, this tart is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, butter, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and salt. Pour the mixture into the baked tart crust.
6. Arrange crushed pineapple on top of the filling.
7. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Coquito Flan (Coconut Rum Flan)
A creamy and indulgent dessert perfect for special occasions or as a treat any time of the year. This Coquito Flan combines the richness of coconut milk, caramelized sugar, and the warmth of rum, creating a unique and irresistible flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup rum (such as dark or golden rum)
– 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, and shredded coconut. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture simmers.
3. Remove from heat and stir in rum. Let it cool slightly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or custard cups. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers still slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Casquitos de Guayaba (Candied Guava Shells)
Casquitos de Guayaba are a traditional Puerto Rican treat that combines the natural sweetness of guava with the crunch of caramelized sugar. These bite-sized candies are perfect for snacking or as a sweet addition to your next fiesta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup guava shells (fresh or dried)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and vinegar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the guava shells and stir to coat evenly with the sugar syrup.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the shells are caramelized and golden brown.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the sweet taste of Puerto Rico with these 18 delicious traditional dessert recipes. From creamy puddings to flaky pastries, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Try Tembleque, a coconut pudding that’s a staple at Puerto Rican gatherings, or Flan de Queso, a creamy cheese flan that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Other treats include Arroz con Dulce, a sweet rice pudding, and Brazo Gitano, a Swiss roll with a hint of tropical flavor. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a taste of the island, these recipes are sure to delight.
