Here’s a look at some of the most typical Carnival desserts that you should definitely try trying out this festive season.
1. Beignets
Beignets are fluffy, deep-fried doughnuts that are commonly eaten during Mardi Gras in New Orleans. They are made from a simple dough that is cut into squares and then fried until crispy. Afterward, they are dusted with powdered sugar and served hot. They are the perfect dessert to enjoy with a hot cup of coffee on a cold winter day.
2. King Cake
A King cake is a traditional dessert that is eaten during Carnival seasons around the world, but most popularly in the southern United States. It’s essentially a sweet, cake-like bread that is baked in a circular shape. The cake is then decorated with colorful icing and sugar crystals, and a small, plastic baby is placed somewhere inside. Whoever finds the baby in their slice is considered to be lucky and has to host the next year’s Mardi Gras party.
3. Churros
Churros are a Spanish sweet, which have become very popular in other parts of the world, including Brazil, where they are widely eaten during Carnival season. They are basically long strips of dough that are deep-fried and coated with sugar and cinnamon. Churros are often enjoyed with dulce de leche, a thick, sweet caramel sauce.
4. Brigadeiros
Another popular sweet that is enjoyed during Brazilian Carnival is Brigadeiros. They are small, bite-sized chocolate treats that are very easy to make. They are made with condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and chocolate sprinkles. Brigadeiros are incredibly sweet and they’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth cravings.
5. Frittelle
Frittelle is a sweet fried doughnut that is typically eaten in Italy and other parts of Europe during Carnival season. They are made from a simple mixture of flour, eggs, sugar, and yeast, and then fried until golden brown. Once the frittelle is ready, it’s filled with custard or jam and dusted with powdered sugar.
6. Krapfen
Krapfen is a type of doughnut that is popular during Carnival season in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. They are made using yeast dough that is filled with jam, chocolate cream, or vanilla custard and then deep-fried until golden brown. They are typically enjoyed with coffee or hot chocolate and make a perfect breakfast treat.
7. Oreillettes
Oreillettes are a French dessert that is similar to a crispy, thin biscuit. They are also pretty easy to make and require only a handful of ingredients, including flour, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Oreillettes are traditionally enjoyed during Carnival, and they are often dusted with powdered sugar or served with a side of fruit compote.
In conclusion, every country has its unique Carnival desserts that highlight their culture and tradition. Whether you are in Italy, Germany, or Brazil, you should try out the sweet treats that are an essential part of the Carnival season. Each dessert has its own unique taste, texture, and flavor, and is a great way to indulge and the festive season with your family and friends.