Looking for the perfect Guatemalan dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of 25 mouth-watering treats that are sure to impress. From classic drunk cakes to unique squash-based desserts, there’s something for everyone. For those who like to indulge in a boozy treat, our Borracho-Drunk Cake is the perfect choice. Simply add a shot of rum or your favorite brandy and let the good times roll! And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try making some Chancletas?
These creamy coconut-filled squash desserts are sure to be a hit with friends and family. And don’t forget about all those stale bread leftovers collecting dust in your pantry. Transform them into a delicious dessert cake with our simple recipe. It’s like having your cake and eating it too! So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen and try out some of these amazing Guatemalan desserts. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!
Champurradas-Sesame Seed Cookies
Indulge in the perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee or afternoon tea with Guatemala’s beloved Champurradas, crispy shortbread cookies that are sure to please. When served fresh from the oven and still warm, they’re an ideal complement to a steaming cup of joe. But their versatility doesn’t stop there – enjoy them as part of a sweet breakfast spread alongside other Guatemalan pan dulces or use them as a thoughtful treat for guests, kids at school, or even on-the-go snacks at the park.
Torrejas-French Toast
In Guatemala, the Torrejas is a beloved French toast dish that’s traditionally enjoyed during the Christmas and Lenten seasons. For those looking to add an extra layer of depth, rum can be incorporated for its signature flavor. This delectable treat requires just three ingredients, making it easy to prepare alongside a variety of accompaniments, such as fruits, butter, or whipped cream.
Guatemalan Molletes
In Guatemala, the Molletes are a beloved dessert that’s often served during special holidays like Day of the Dead and All Saints’ celebrations. These fried sweet breads, also known as pan dulce, are essentially a Guatemalan take on French toast – but instead of just being topped with butter or syrup, they’re stuffed with creamy milky custard and then drenched in a decadent Canela or rum-based glaze. A delicious twist!
And if you’re serving these sweet treats to little ones, don’t worry, you can easily omit the rum for a family-friendly version.
Buñuelos-Sweet Fritters
Indulge in the warmth of crispy, golden-brown Buñuelos, sprinkled with a generous coating of cinnamon sugar. These sweet treats are reminiscent of churros, but with a delightful crunch and soft center. Pair them with your favorite beverage for a satisfying snack that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Imagine serving these bite-sized morsels at an afternoon family gathering – the kids will be begging for more of that sweet, cinnamon-y goodness as they lick their fingers clean.
Rellenitos De Plátanos
Savor the sweet and savory fusion of Rellenitos De Plátano, crispy fried plantain balls filled with creamy black bean curd. This beloved dessert snack is a ubiquitous presence on Guatemala’s streets and a staple in every household’s afternoon spread. If you’re stuck with overripe bananas but craving something more exciting than banana bread, look no further! Simply omit the unnecessary cinnamon and sugar to unlock the authentic flavors of this Guatemalan classic.
Polvorosas
Indulge in the simplicity of traditional Polvorosas, a sweet treat that requires only three essential ingredients: flour, butter, and sugar. These classic shortbread cookies are perfect for a relaxing afternoon tea or a quick snack to satisfy your sweet tooth. The best part? You can whip up a batch at any time with basic kitchen staples, making it an ideal dessert option when you need a sweet escape.
Guatemalan Quesadillas
Imagine a warm, comforting treat that defies traditional expectations – no savory spices, meaty flavors, or cheesy snacks in sight. Instead, Guatemalan Quesadillas are a delightful surprise: a type of cheese-infused cake that’s as perfect for sipping tea or coffee as it is for satisfying a sweet tooth craving. If you’re not one for rich, heavy desserts, this classic Guatemalan treat is sure to hit the spot.
With its tender butteriness and subtle cheesiness, each bite will keep you coming back for more – so go ahead and brew another cup, because you’ll want to savor every last morsel!
Borracho-Drunk Cake
Immerse yourself in the essence of Guatemala with this indulgent Borracho cake, literally translating to ‘drunken’ in Spanish. As you sink your teeth into its moist delight, the rum-infused goodness will transport you to a state of relaxation, perfect for unwinding with friends or family. To elevate the experience, top it with manjar, a creamy concoction comprising cornstarch, milk, raisins, and cinnamon.
Feel free to get creative with the toppings – nuts, raisins, or even fruits are all fair game. The best part? You’re in control of the liquor content, whether you prefer a subtle hint or a more robust hit. So, gather your closest friends for a girls’ night or batch reunion, and let the Borracho cake be the star of the show!
Tres Leches Cake
Are you preparing for a loved one’s birthday? Why not surprise them with a personalized and special touch by baking a cake? The Tres Leches Cake recipe is an ideal choice for creating a classic white cake with a velvety frosting. This effortless-to-follow recipe allows you to easily impress your family, and the best part is that you can top it off with either a French meringue or homemade whipped cream for added flair.
Don’t forget to add a pinch of cinnamon for an authentic Guatemalan touch, making this birthday celebration even more memorable.
Chancletas-Stuffed Dessert Chayotes
Surprisingly, the humble chayote squash plays a starring role in traditional Guatemalan desserts. This unlikely ingredient is often paired with an assortment of sweet treats to create unique flavor profiles. One such recipe combines boiled chayote with the sweetness of raisins, the crunch of almonds, and the richness of egg yolks. A sprinkle of cinnamon adds warmth, while sugar provides a touch of classic sweetness.
To take it to the next level, top it all off with a generous helping of freshly grated coconut for an unmistakable tropical twist.
Arroz Con Leche
Looking to add a burst of flavor to your morning meal? Look no further! The Arroz Con Leche, a traditional Mexican Rice Pudding, is a rapid and effortless recipe that can be prepared in mere minutes. This comforting treat relies on everyday pantry staples, allowing you to easily craft it yourself – perfect for serving hot or cold. Its simplicity and versatility also enable you to bake or cook it on the stovetop, making it an ideal addition to your breakfast repertoire.
Empanadas De Leche
While empanadas are often associated with savory flavors, Guatemala has a sweet twist – Empanadas De Leche, a classic dessert pastry that’s a staple in the region. The filling is a creamy cornstarch pudding called Manjar Blanco, infused with the warm and comforting flavor of cinnamon. But what really sets these treats apart is their vibrant orange exterior, courtesy of annatto seeds. It’s a unique combination that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
If you’re ready to indulge in this sweet and crunchy delight, follow along as we guide you through making your very own Empanadas De Leche – the perfect little snack to satisfy your cravings.
Pan De Muerto De Quiché
For the Day of the Dead celebrations on November 1st and 2nd, another traditional dessert recipe to try is Pan de Muerto de Quiché. This holiday staple is often shaped into creative forms like bones, crosses, or even skulls, but it’s also commonly made as a round bread infused with the distinct flavors of anise and orange zest, which are quintessential to Guatemalan cuisine.
Bocado De Reina
Want to breathe new life into stale bread and turn it into a decadent dessert? Look no further! The Bocado de Reina, also known as Guatemalan Bread Pudding, is a moist and indulgent treat that combines leftover bread with milk and cinnamon. While it’s often referred to as a bread pudding, the end result has a cake-like consistency that adds a luxurious texture and rich, creamy flavor. So why wait? Satisfy your sweet tooth cravings with this simple and speedy recipe!
Chocobananos
Hosting a family gathering? Look no further for the perfect dessert to delight your young guests! Chocobananos, a traditional Guatemalan treat, are a surefire hit. These tasty treats consist of frozen bananas coated in rich chocolate. To add an extra layer of fun, consider topping them with crushed nuts or candy sprinkles. But if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try combining different dips and sweet delights to create your own unique Chocobanano creations?
With so many possibilities, the only limit is your imagination!
Nuégados Guatemaltecos-Orange Scented Fried Dough
Indulge in the irresistible charm of homemade donuts, conveniently sized for a satisfying treat at home. This traditional Guatemalan recipe, Nuégados Guatemaltecos or Orange-Scented Fried Dough, yields bite-sized fried donuts coated in a sweet sugar glaze. For an added twist, substitute orange zest with anise for a unique blend of sweetness and licorice flavor.
Pan De Banano
Transforming overripe leftover bananas into a mouthwatering treat just got a whole lot more exciting! This classic banana bread recipe gets a vibrant twist from the citrusy zing of lemon zest, transporting you to the sun-kissed hills of Guatemala.
Say goodbye to those pesky bananas and hello to this no-fail recipe that yields a scrumptious loaf.
Pair it with a drizzle of warm honey for an authentic Guatemalan bread cake experience or enjoy it on its own with your favorite cup of tea or coffee.
Ayote En Dulce-Sweet Pumpkin
Indulge in the warmth of tradition with Ayote En Dulce, a delectable pumpkin dessert that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. By combining diced pumpkin with the aromatic spices of cinnamon and piloncillo sugar or brown sugar, you’ll be treated to a delightfully soft, sweet, and subtly spicy confection that’s perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to any meal.
Canillitas De Leche
Savoring these creamy delights is a delightful experience, whether you’re reaching for them as a satisfying snack, seeking a sweet ending to a meal, or craving a morning treat. The unique appearance of Canillitas De Leche, affectionately known as Little Milk Legs, is sure to capture your attention.
Furthermore, this traditional Guatemalan dessert recipe stays true to its heritage by incorporating the warmth and depth of real cinnamon, expertly evoking the classic flavors that have made it a beloved treat.
Bananos En Leche
In Guatemala, the delightful Bananos En Leche, also known as Creamy Vanilla Bananas, have been a popular dessert for generations. This sweet and creamy treat is made by combining the natural sweetness of plantains or bananas with the rich flavor of vanilla sauce. The result is a surprisingly simple yet indulgent dessert that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Magdalena Cake
The Magdalena Cake is an iconic dessert renowned for its sublime combination of creamy texture and vibrant orange zest flavor. This timeless recipe boasts simplicity and versatility, making it a crowd-pleaser across all ages. Traditionally served chilled, the cake can also be warmed and paired with a warm beverage of choice. For added indulgence, consider topping it with a generous scoop of your favorite ice cream, allowing the sweetness to unfold in harmony.
Guatemalan Squash Cake
When it comes to traditional Guatemalan desserts, the Squash Cake or Pastel De Calabaza Quezalteca is a staple recipe that never fails to impress. This easy-to-make dessert is all about simplicity and flavor. To start, prepare a rich squash puree, then mix it with butter, flour, Greek yogurt, and baking soda for a moist and tender crumb. Don’t forget the essential spices – cinnamon and nutmeg add a delightful warmth and depth to the cake.
Finally, top it off with a sweet and indulgent sugar glaze made from vanilla, almond milk, and dark rum. With its unique flavor profile and effortless preparation, this Squash Cake is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Dulce De Zapallo-Candied Squash In Spiced Syrup
The Dulce De Zapallo, a type of candied squash in a spiced syrup recipe, shares similarities with the Ayote en Dulce or Sweet Pumpkin in its ease and quickness to prepare. This sweet squash dessert is characterized by a simmered squash cooked with panela or brown cane sugar and spices, creating a rich and flavorful syrup. For those concerned about the sweetness level of candied squash, a traditional Guatemalan/Ecuadorian twist can be achieved by adding a slice of cheese, such as mozzarella.
This addition provides a perfect balance to the sweetness, allowing the spiciness of the syrup to shine through. The combination creates a harmonious blend that is both sweet and savory.
Guatemalan Dark Chocolate Crepes With Dulce De Leche
In Guatemala, crepes may be an unconventional dessert option, but their popularity is undeniable. This indulgent recipe harmoniously unites two beloved Guatemalan flavors – rich dark chocolate and velvety dulce de leche – with the freshness of berries and a hint of mint. The result is a delightful balance that will leave you wondering how such contrasting elements come together so seamlessly. If you’re intrigued by this unique combination, give it a try!
Guatemalan Sweet Bread
Guatemala’s rich dessert landscape is well-established by now, offering a plethora of sweet treats. If simplicity is what you’re after, this straightforward sweet bread recipe should hit the spot. However, it’s essential to set aside sufficient time for preparation and muster the energy required to knead the dough, as this added layer of effort yields a deliciously rewarding outcome.
The bottom line
Whether you’re craving international sweets or a taste of home, there’s a Guatemalan dessert recipe waiting to be tried. From simple no-bake treats requiring just three ingredients to indulgent cakes and puddings for the adventurous baker, the options are endless. Whichever sweet tooth desire is calling your name, rest assured that a magical culinary solution is at hand. So, which recipe will you try next?
For more Guatemalan food inspiration, be sure to explore our curated lists of 15 must-try appetizers and 30 mouthwatering main courses.
