Comprised of many distinct countries, Latin American culture is rich with diversity. There are many variations of the same dishes throughout Central and South America—from tamales to quesadillas—that each country prepares with its own flare. Along with flavorful and hearty dishes, desserts are an important part of Latin cuisine. Below are three popular dishes that you should try the next time you visit a Latin restaurant. 

3 Must-Have Desserts of Latin Cuisine

1. Tres Leches

Named for its primary flavors, this cake is soaked in evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. While some recipes start with a butter cake for the base, many use a sponge cake, as it soaks up the different types of milk and helps it retain a light, soft texture. Once the milk is fully absorbed, it’s topped with whipped cream. It can be left plain or sprinkled with fruit, cinnamon, coconut shavings, or chocolate sauce, depending on your taste. 

2. Flan

In Latin cuisine, flan is a custard dish with caramelized sauce on top. The custard itself is modified to suit the country the Latin restaurant represents. Sometimes it’s made with condensed milk, other times with whole milk, or it could be mixed with oranges, espresso, chocolate sauce, or fresh fruit. 

3. Dulce de Leche

Although it’s not quite a dish on its own, this sauce is used in a myriad of desserts in Latin cuisine, from cakes to cookies to churros. Due to its light brown color and sugar content, it’s commonly mistaken for caramel, but it’s not the same. Whereas caramel is made from water and sugar, dulce de leche is made from milk and sugar, which makes it thick in comparison. Many Latin restaurants will use this sauce in cheesecake, pound cake, ice cream, or as a dipping sauce. 

If you’re in the Paterson, NJ, area and are craving these sweet treats, head to Mamajuana Café. Known for their authentic Latin cuisine and fun, welcoming atmosphere, you’re sure to enjoy yourself. Not only does this restaurant have the desserts mentioned above, but they also have a wide variety of main course dishes for brunch through dinner. View their menu on their website and call (973) 925-5172 to make a reservation.