African desserts are as broad as the continent which means that there is a dessert for everyone. Read on to find out about 6 traditional African desserts that are sure to have your sweet tooth cravings satisfied.
African doughnut
This is an African dessert in every sense of the word. It is known by different names across the continent which is explained below:
Mandazi - Swahili (East African countries)
Bofrot /Togbei - Ghana
Puff Puff - Nigeria
Mikate - Congo
Kala - Liberia
Ligemat - Sudan
Bofloto - Côte d'Ivoire
Beignet - Cameroon
Mandazi is made of yeast, milk, flour, water, egg and sugar. Appearances may differ across the continent, but the staple ingredients are similar with slight variations such as coconut milk being used instead of cow’s milk. It can be eaten as dessert or a snack. So, next time you go to an African party or restaurant, do not be surprised when you see this yummy African treat on the menu.
Contemporary African doughnut
The beauty of this traditional African dessert is that it can be modernized and customised to your liking. Flavours that have been made in the past include: Oreo puff puff, Cinnamon puff puff and Honey glazed puff puff.
The list is endless and that is what makes this African pudding so versatile and fun to eat. Another benefit is that it can be gluten free, vegan and modified according to dietary needs. This is a must-try African dessert that is sure to bring everyone together.
Napolitaine
This African dessert is from Mauritius and is a popular treat there. Napolitaine consists of two shortbread biscuits that are sandwiched together with a jam filling. It is then covered with a pink glaze, however, other coloured glazes can be used. They are usually round in shape although the treat can be cut into other shapes such as hearts or whatever tickles your fancy. The highlight of this African pudding is that it can beeaten as a dessert or a snack, and it can be changed to suit different dietary needs.
Basbousa
This Egyptian dessert is a semolina or farina cake that is known for its very sweet nature as it is covered in syrup. Furthermore, yoghurt is another key ingredient in this African treat. Almonds are normally placed on top of the cake which makes it distinctive in appearance. It can be served hot or cold and it is traditionally cut into a diamond shape before being shared out. Another important thing to mention is the pudding can be modified for different dietary needs, too. Basbousa in Arabic is also used as a term of endearment for someone you love such as a partner, child or otherwise. This makes it a fitting name for this sweet African dessert.
Chakery
Chakery - which is also known as Dèguè or Thiakry in Senegal and other parts of West Africa - hails from Gambia. It is made of couscous that is prepared in a sweet mix that includes yoghurt, sour cream, evaporated milk and more. Various toppings can be placed on top such as berries, strawberries and other types of fruits. Furthermore, millet can be used as a substitute for couscous. It can also be consumed as a drink and in some West African countries such as Ghana the liquid version is known as Burkina. A vegan version of this delicious African dessert can be made, too.
Malva pudding
Malva is the king of South African desserts and is considered a staple in many South African restaurants. It is a caramelised sponge cake that contains apricot jam. It is then covered with a cream sauce. Malva can be served hot or cold; if hot, it is usually accompanied with custard, ice cream or even both. Malva pudding can be altered to suit individuals with different dietary needs.
Sweet Potato Pie
The United States has a number of African American desserts that are delicious - enter sweet potato pie. As the name suggests, sweet potato is a key ingredient for this mouth-watering dish. Other ingredients include eggs, white sugar and evaporated milk. Much like the other dishes, dietary needs can be accommodated meaning that everyone can have a piece of the pie. If you’re looking for traditional African American desserts to try out, then look no further than Sweet Potato Pie.
So, there you have it, 6 African desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth! Next time you have finished your lunch or dinner consider indulging in one (or more!) of these yummy desserts so that you can finish your meal on a sugar high!