International Inspiration: 6 Desserts from Unexpected Places

NNicholas December 13, 2023 7:02 AM

Have you ever wished to explore the world of sweets beyond your neighborhood bakery? Get ready to embark on a global culinary journey with us as we share six unique desserts from unexpected places. From the fragrant streets of Morocco to the bustling markets of Thailand, we've got you a delightful assortment of international desserts that are sure to inspire your baking adventures!

Moroccan Ghriba Cookies

Ghriba or Ghoriba is a type of shortbread cookie, a cherished recipe that has been passed down through generations in Morocco. They are crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with flavors of almond, sesame, and sometimes even spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Their melt-in-the-mouth texture is sure to leave you smitten.

Brazilian Brigadeiro

Brigadeiro is a classic Brazilian dessert that's as fun to make as it is to eat! These chocolate truffle-like sweets are rolled in sprinkles and often served at parties and celebrations. With just a few ingredients—condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and chocolate sprinkles—you can whip up these delectable treats at home.

South African Malva Pudding

Malva Pudding is a beloved dessert in South Africa, known for its spongy texture and decadent caramelized exterior. This sweet pudding is made with apricot jam and drenched in a hot cream sauce after baking, making it irresistibly moist and flavorful.

Indian Gulab Jamun

Gulab Jamun is a popular Indian dessert made from small, round balls of dried milk and flour, deep-fried until golden, and then soaked in a sweet syrup flavored with rose water or cardamom. These fragrant, syrupy sweets are a staple at Indian celebrations and festivals.

Thai Mango and Sticky Rice

Mango with Sticky Rice is a must-try dessert if you ever visit Thailand. This simple yet satisfying dessert pairs perfectly ripe mangos with sticky rice and a sweet coconut cream sauce. It's a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that make it a summer favorite in Thailand.

Italian Affogato

Affogato is a simple yet elegant Italian dessert that combines two beloved treats—espresso and gelato. A scoop of vanilla gelato is 'drowned' (which is what 'affogato' means in Italian) in a shot of hot espresso, creating a delightful contrast between the hot coffee and cold ice cream.

Dessert Country Main ingredients
Ghriba Cookies Morocco Almonds, sesame, spices
Brigadeiro Brazil Condensed milk, cocoa powder, chocolate sprinkles
Malva Pudding South Africa Apricot jam, cream sauce
Gulab Jamun India Dried milk, flour, rose water or cardamom syrup
Mango with Sticky Rice Thailand Mango, sticky rice, coconut cream
Affogato Italy Vanilla gelato, espresso

We hope these unique, international desserts inspire your next baking project. Each one of these desserts offers a glimpse into its respective culture's food history and traditions.

More articles

Also read

Here are some interesting articles on other sites from our network.