Delicious Desserts Around the World
Written on February 23, 2023
The world is a delicious place for travelers with a sweet tooth. From cakes to puddings to pastries to frozen treats, every county has a special dessert to offer. Whether you’re craving something rich with chocolate or something light with fruit flavors, here are some tasty desserts (and destinations!) for you.
Pastel de Nata (Portugal)
This beloved egg custard tart was first prepared before the 18th century by the monks in Jerónimos Monastery outside of Lisbon. The monks used egg whites to starch the nuns’ habits, which created an abundance of leftover egg yolks. Not wanting to waste, the yolks were used for recipes, including this tart. The sweet, creamy treat is often sprinkled with a bit of cinnamon and can be found at nearly every bakery, café, and Pastel de Nata specialty shop around Portugal.
Tiramisu (Italy)
A light, fluffy dessert that is made with mascarpone cheese, whipping cream, cocoa, eggs, coffee, and a splash of liqueur often haunts the dessert dreams of those who have visited Italy. Translating to “pick me up,” a bite of this Italian after dinner indulgence will likely do just that.
Malva Pudding (South Africa)
Served in many restaurants across South Africa, Malva pudding contains apricot jam and has a spongey, cake-like consistency. To add to its deliciousness, a cream sauce is poured over the top when the dessert is still hot, and it is usually served warm with ice cream.
Rum Cake (Caribbean)
Rum cake is generally believed to originate from British colonists and their love of steamed puddings, but its exact origins are unknown. Local flavors and ingredients replaced those of traditional puddings, resulting in a cake with the tropical tastes of pineapple, coconut, and the regional liquor of choice, rum. It is sometimes served glazed or with rum-soaked raisins or other dried fruits stirred into the batter.
Black Forest Cake (Germany)
This iconic cake from Germany is named for the region where the sour cherry brandy, or Kirsh, comes from, not where the dessert originated from as many believe. Black Forest Cake is comprised of layers of Kirsh-soaked chocolate sponge, fluffy whipped cream, and cherries. The inclusion of Kirshwasser is what turns a chocolate cherry cake into a true Black Forest Cake.
You don’t have to be a foodie to appreciate the flavor combinations and creative cuisine around the globe. Indulging in desserts while traveling is part of the fun of vacation, so even if you’re used to saying, “No thank you” at home, grab a fork and sink your teeth into tasty bliss.
Did one of your favorite desserts make the list? Stay tuned for part 2!
