By Elizabeth Hazard
Haitian food is known for its rich spices and flavors, but the cuisine also boasts its fair share of sweet delicacies. Here are some of the most popular Haitian desserts that have us craving a sugary treat.
Haitian Gateau a L’Orange, or Simple Orange Cake, is just like it says: simple. With just a few ingredients, this aromatic cake is made with flour, eggs, sugar, vanilla, orange zest, orange juice, baking soda and rum. When combined, you have a light and airy cake packed with citrus flavor.
Blan Manje is sometimes known as Haitian fruit cocktail. The fruit-filled dessert is made with a base of coconut milk. As Haitians like to do, sometimes it’s given a kick with a bit of rum. It can be served with toasted, shredded coconut sprinkled on top.
Tablet Cocoye is a very popular Haitian street-food treat. Made of grated coconut, condensed milk, sugar and cinnamon, the snack is very close in appearance to a peanut brittle. Sometimes called coconut patties, the snack is best when made with fresh grated coconut when available. Some recipes call for adding a touch of ginger as well.
Dous Makos, or Haitian Fudge, is a vanilla-based fudge with a chocolate layer, vanilla layer and red stripe made of food coloring. The fudge originates from an area called Petit-Goave. It was invented in 1939 by a man named Fernand Macos, who is held in esteem as the Hershey of Haiti.
Gateau Au Beurre is simply known as Haitian Cake, and is undoubtedly the most popular of Haitian desserts. The traditional cake recipe is the basis for most Haitian cakes. It’s most commonly made in the shape of a bundt cake, but it can be made a myriad of ways. The special ingredient? You guessed it—Rum!