Tembleque, a traditional Puerto Rican dessert, has captured hearts and taste buds around the world. This creamy, coconut-infused treat is a staple at many gatherings and celebrations. But why settle for just one classic recipe when you can experiment with new flavors and combinations? In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore 18 unique tembleque recipes that incorporate the rich, velvety texture of coconut milk.
From sweet treats like Vanilla Bean Tembleque and Mango Swirl Tembleque, to savory twists like Spiced Rum Tembleque and Cardamom and Rosewater Tembleque, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of fruity flavors or prefer more subtle undertones, these recipes will guide you in creating your own coconut-based masterpieces.
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes and get ready to indulge in the creamy delight of tembleque!
Classic Puerto Rican Tembleque
Trembleque is a beloved dessert in Puerto Rico, made with coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and a touch of vanilla. This creamy pudding is traditionally served at special occasions and celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low and add vanilla extract and sugar. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and a splash of the warm coconut mixture until smooth. Add this mixture back into the saucepan and stir well.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut and Cinnamon Tembleque
This traditional Puerto Rican dessert is a creamy coconut pudding infused with the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and shredded coconut. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter, cinnamon, and salt until melted and combined.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add the warm pudding mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pineapple-Infused Tembleque
Tembleque is a traditional Puerto Rican dessert made with coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and cornstarch. In this recipe, we add a tropical twist by infusing the tembleque with the sweetness of pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
– Fresh pineapple slices, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add salt and pineapple juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle with shredded coconut if desired. Garnish with fresh pineapple slices.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate Drizzle Tembleque
This decadent dessert combines the comfort of traditional tembleque with the indulgent richness of chocolate. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and egg yolks. Temper the mixture by gradually adding it to the warm cream mixture, whisking constantly.
5. Stir in melted butter until combined.
6. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
8. Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over cooled tembleque.
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Vanilla Bean Tembleque
Trembling with delight, this creamy Vanilla Bean Tembleque is a Latin-inspired dessert that’s sure to impress. With its smooth texture and subtle sweetness, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes with the vanilla bean.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the vanilla bean.
4. Whisk in the butter until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the tembleque to set.
Cooking Time: None
Mango Swirl Tembleque
This sweet and creamy dessert combines the natural sweetness of mango with the tender texture of tembleque, a traditional Latin American pudding. This refreshing treat is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm coconut mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, for 5 minutes or until the pudding thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut and diced mango.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Drizzle with honey before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Rum Tembleque
Trembleque is a traditional Caribbean pudding made with sweetened condensed milk and spices, perfect for warming up on a chilly evening. This recipe adds a twist by incorporating spiced rum, giving it a rich and indulgent flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons spiced rum
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in spiced rum and butter until melted.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Tembleque
This traditional Filipino dessert gets a Japanese twist with the addition of matcha green tea, creating a unique and refreshing treat. The combination of creamy coconut milk, sweet palm sugar, and vibrant green tea powder will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup palm sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pandan extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, palm sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and whisk in matcha green tea powder and salt. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Discard the solids.
4. Refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Serve cold, garnished with toasted coconut flakes and a drizzle of palm sugar syrup (optional).
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Berry Compote-Topped Tembleque
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful combination of creamy tamarind dessert, sweet berry compote, and crispy tostada. Perfect for a quick dessert or as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked tamarind (toasted and ground)
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ground tamarind and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, mix berries with granulated sugar in a small bowl. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, allowing the berries to release their juice and sweeten.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and baking for 5-7 minutes.
4. Top warmed tortillas with tamarind mixture, berry compote, and a sprinkle of confectioners’ sugar. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Toasted Coconut Tembleque
This creamy coconut dessert is a tropical twist on the classic creme brûlée. With its toasted coconut flakes and caramelized sugar, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in coconut flakes and egg yolks.
4. Pour mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lime Zest Tembleque
This vibrant dessert combines the brightness of lime zest with the creamy richness of coconut, perfect for a warm weather treat. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you can create a unique and delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
– 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
– 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and add the softened gelatin, lime juice, and grated zest. Stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13-inch baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle with shredded coconut if desired.
Cooking Time: None (requires refrigeration)
Cardamom and Rosewater Tembleque
A traditional Indian dessert, tembleque is a creamy pudding made with milk, sugar, and spices. This recipe adds the unique flavors of cardamom and rosewater to create a truly exotic treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon rosewater
– 1/4 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and ground cardamom. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the rosewater.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and melted butter until smooth. Add to the milk mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Pumpkin Spice Tembleque
Trembleque is a traditional Dominican dessert made with coconut milk, sugar, and eggs. This recipe adds a seasonal twist by incorporating the warm spices of pumpkin pie to create a unique and delicious fall treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, sugar, egg yolks, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in pumpkin puree and melted butter.
4. Pour into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small cups.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramel Glazed Tembleque
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of the Caribbean with this rich and creamy tembleque dessert, elevated by a velvety caramel glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup tembleque (coconut milk-based pudding)
– Caramel glaze (see below)
Caramel Glaze:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and melted butter. Let cool slightly.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with tembleque pudding.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
6. While the tembleque is baking, prepare the caramel glaze by combining sugar and water in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
7. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. Drizzle over baked tembleque.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Almond Milk Tembleque
This creamy pudding recipe is a delicious twist on traditional tembleque, using almond milk instead of cow’s milk for a dairy-free and nutty flavor. Perfect as a dessert or snack, this tembleque is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups almond milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon coconut oil
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together almond milk, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
2. Add cornstarch and whisk until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
4. Remove from heat and stir in coconut oil and vanilla extract.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Passion Fruit Tembleque
Passion Fruit Tembleque Recipe
Summary: This refreshing dessert is a twist on the classic tropical drink, with passion fruit puree adding a sweet and tangy flavor to this creamy pudding-like treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons passion fruit puree
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together passion fruit puree and cornstarch. Add this mixture to the saucepan and stir to combine.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
- Salt to taste, then remove from heat. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking) + 2 hours or overnight (chilling)
Espresso-Infused Tembleque
Experience the perfect blend of creamy coconut and bold espresso with this unique dessert recipe. This rich and velvety pudding is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder (or 1 shot of strong espresso)
– 1/4 cup whole milk, lukewarm
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, unsweetened shredded coconut, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a simmer.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and espresso powder (or cooled espresso). Let it steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Stir in lukewarm milk until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to chill and set.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Guava and Cream Cheese Tembleque
Tembleque, a traditional Puerto Rican dessert, gets a tropical twist with the addition of guava and cream cheese. This creamy, sweet, and tangy treat is perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup guava jam or preserves
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream and confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add the guava jam, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese; mix until well combined.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until no white streaks remain.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: 4-6
Summary
Indulge in the creamy richness of Tembleque with these 18 delicious recipes! From classic Puerto Rican flavors to innovative twists like Coconut and Cinnamon, Pineapple-Infused, and Chocolate Drizzle, there’s something for every taste bud. Try Vanilla Bean or Mango Swirl for a sweet treat, or spice things up with Spiced Rum, Matcha Green Tea, or Berry Compote-Topped Tembleque. Toasted Coconut, Lime Zest, Cardamom and Rosewater, Pumpkin Spice, Caramel Glazed, Almond Milk, Passion Fruit, Espresso-Infused, and Guava and Cream Cheese Tembleques offer even more options. Treat yourself to a creamy adventure!
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