10 Must-Try International Desserts To Expand Your Baking Horizons

Are you ready to take your baking skills to a whole new level? Get ready to embark on a delicious journey around the world with these 10 must-try international desserts. From the delicate French macarons to the rich and indulgent Italian tiramisu, these sweet treats will not only satisfy your cravings but also introduce you to new flavors, techniques, and cultural traditions. So put on your apron, preheat the oven, and get ready to expand your baking horizons with these mouthwatering desserts from around the globe.

Tiramisu

Origin: Italy

If you’re a fan of coffee and love a decadent dessert, then tiramisu is a must-try for you. Originating from Italy, tiramisu is a classic dessert that consists of layers of ladyfingers soaked in coffee and layered with a deliciously creamy mixture of mascarpone cheese, sugar, and eggs. The dessert is then finished off with a generous dusting of cocoa powder. The combination of the coffee-soaked ladyfingers and the velvety smooth mascarpone filling creates a truly heavenly dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

To make tiramisu at home, you will need a few key ingredients including ladyfingers, coffee, mascarpone cheese, sugar, eggs, and cocoa powder. The ladyfingers are first dipped in freshly brewed coffee to give them a rich coffee flavor. Then, a mixture of mascarpone cheese, sugar, and eggs is prepared and layered between the soaked ladyfingers. Finally, the dessert is chilled in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld together, and before serving, a generous dusting of cocoa powder is added on top for that final touch.

For a step-by-step guide on how to prepare the perfect tiramisu dessert, follow the instructions below:

Begin by brewing a strong cup of coffee and allowing it to cool to room temperature.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, sugar, and eggs. Beat together until smooth and well combined.
Dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee for a few seconds on each side, ensuring they are fully soaked but not overly saturated.
In a rectangular serving dish or glass baking dish, place a layer of the soaked ladyfingers on the bottom.
Spread a layer of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers.
Repeat these layers, alternating between soaked ladyfingers and the creamy mascarpone filling until you reach the top of the dish.
Finish off the tiramisu by dusting a generous amount of cocoa powder over the top layer.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to develop and the dessert to set.
When ready to serve, cut into individual portions and enjoy the delicious layers of coffee-infused ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone filling.

Baklava

Origin: Middle East

If you’re looking to explore the flavors of the Middle East, baklava is a dessert that should be at the top of your list. Originating from this region, baklava is a sweet filo pastry that is layered with a generous amount of nuts, usually pistachios or walnuts, and sweetened with a luscious syrup or honey. The combination of the crunchy filo pastry, the nutty filling, and the syrupy sweetness creates a dessert that is both indulgent and satisfying.

To make baklava at home, you will need filo pastry, nuts, butter, sugar, and honey. The key to a perfect baklava lies in the layers of delicate filo pastry, so it’s important to handle it with care. The filo pastry is layered with a mixture of finely chopped nuts and generously brushed with melted butter to ensure a crisp and golden finish. Once baked to perfection, the baklava is then drenched in a sweet syrup or honey, allowing it to absorb the flavors and become gloriously sticky.

To make baklava at home, follow these simple instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine the finely chopped nuts of your choice. Pistachios and walnuts are traditional options, but feel free to experiment with different varieties.
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave.
Unroll the filo pastry onto a clean work surface and cover it with a damp kitchen towel to prevent it from drying out.
Take a sheet of filo pastry and brush it lightly with melted butter.
Layer another sheet on top and repeat the process until you have a stack of 10-12 sheets.
Sprinkle a generous amount of the nut mixture evenly over the top sheet of filo pastry.
Repeat the layering process with the remaining filo pastry sheets and nut mixture.
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes.
Place the baklava in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crisp.
While the baklava is baking, prepare the syrup by combining sugar and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes until the sugar has dissolved and the syrup has thickened slightly.
Remove the baklava from the oven and pour the syrup evenly over the hot pastry, allowing it to soak in.
Allow the baklava to cool completely before serving, as this will allow the pastry to become crispy and the flavors to develop.

Pastel de Nata

Origin: Portugal

Traveling to Portugal may not be possible at the moment, but you can still experience a taste of this beautiful country with a traditional Portuguese custard tart known as Pastel de Nata. This delightful dessert is made up of crispy puff pastry and a creamy custard filling that is flavored with vanilla extract and cinnamon. The combination of buttery pastry and silky custard makes Pastel de Nata a truly irresistible treat.

To bake your own Pastel de Nata, you will need puff pastry, eggs, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. The puff pastry serves as the base and is filled with a deliciously smooth custard mixture before being baked to perfection. The custard is made by combining eggs, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon to create a creamy and fragrant filling.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to baking Pastel de Nata at home:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Roll out your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it is thin and even.
Cut the pastry into squares or circles, depending on your preference and the size of your molds.
Use the pastry to line greased tart or muffin molds, pressing gently to ensure they are well-formed.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon until well combined.
Pour the custard mixture into the prepared pastry shells, filling them almost to the top.
Place the filled molds on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the custard is set.
Remove the Pastel de Nata from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, sprinkle the tops of the tarts with a dusting of cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor.
Serve the Pastel de Nata at room temperature or slightly warm for the best taste and texture.

Mochi

Origin: Japan

If you’re a fan of chewy and sweet treats, then mochi is a dessert you must try. Originating from Japan, mochi is a sticky rice cake made from glutinous rice flour. It is often filled with delicious sweet fillings like red bean paste or even ice cream. The soft and chewy texture of the mochi, combined with the sweet and flavorful fillings, make it a delightful and unique dessert.

To make homemade mochi, you will need glutinous rice flour, sugar, water, and your choice of fillings. The traditional process of making mochi involves steaming or pounding the glutinous rice to create a smooth and sticky dough. However, for convenience, we will be using glutinous rice flour, which can be easily found in most grocery stores.

Here’s a simple recipe for making mochi at home:

In a microwavable bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and sugar, stirring until well mixed.
Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring continuously until a smooth and sticky dough forms. The consistency should be similar to that of playdough.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 1 minute.
Remove the bowl from the microwave and stir the dough vigorously with a spatula.
Return the bowl to the microwave and heat for another 30 seconds.
Remove the bowl from the microwave and continue stirring until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Allow the dough to cool for a few minutes until it is safe to handle.
Dust a clean work surface and your hands with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
Divide the dough into small portions and flatten each portion into a circle or oval shape.
Place a small amount of your desired filling in the center of each flattened dough portion.
Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges together to seal it completely.
Repeat this process until all the dough or filling is used.
Serve the mochi immediately or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Experiment with different fillings such as red bean paste, matcha, or even ice cream to discover your favorite flavor and indulge in the unique texture of homemade mochi.

Pavlova

Origin: Australia/New Zealand

Transport yourself to the sunny shores of Australia and New Zealand with a slice of pavlova. This meringue-based dessert is renowned for its crisp crust and soft, marshmallow-like center. It is typically topped with an array of fresh fruits and a dollop of whipped cream, creating a beautifully balanced dessert that is not only visually stunning but also a delight to the taste buds.

To create a pavlova masterpiece at home, you will need egg whites, sugar, cornstarch, white vinegar, fruits, and whipped cream. The key to a perfect pavlova lies in achieving a crisp outer shell while maintaining a soft and marshmallow-like interior. This is achieved by slowly baking the meringue at a low temperature for an extended period.

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own pavlova:

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
In a clean, dry mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form.
Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to whisk the egg whites until they become thick and glossy.
Gently fold in the cornstarch and white vinegar until well combined.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a round or oval shape with a slight indentation in the center to hold the toppings.
Place the pavlova in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the meringue is crisp on the outside and slightly soft in the middle.
Turn off the oven and leave the pavlova inside to cool completely. This slow cooling process helps to prevent cracking.
Once the pavlova has cooled, carefully transfer it to a serving plate.
Top the pavlova with an abundance of fresh fruits of your choice. Berries, kiwi, and passion fruit are popular options.
Finish off the pavlova with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
Serve immediately and enjoy the combination of the crispy meringue, fluffy cream, and juicy fruits.

Pavlova is best served on the day it is made, as the meringue can start to soften upon storage. So gather your favorite fruits, whip up a batch of pavlova, and enjoy a taste of Australia and New Zealand from the comfort of your own home.

Churros

Origin: Spain

Imagine yourself strolling through the charming streets of Spain, with the warm scent of fried dough filling the air. That’s the experience you can have with churros, a delightfully crispy and sweet treat that originates from Spain. Churros are made from a simple dough of flour, water, and salt, which is then piped through a star-shaped nozzle and deep-fried until golden brown. Traditionally, churros are sprinkled with sugar and often served with a decadent chocolate dipping sauce.

To make crispy churros at home, you will need flour, water, salt, sugar, oil, cinnamon, and chocolate for dipping. The key to achieving perfectly crispy churros lies in the ratio of ingredients and the cooking process. It’s important to use hot oil for frying to ensure a golden and crunchy exterior, while the inside remains soft and fluffy.

Follow these steps to make churros in the comfort of your own kitchen:

In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, salt, and oil. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
Reduce heat to low and gradually add the flour, stirring vigorously until a smooth dough forms.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the dough to cool slightly.
Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star-shaped nozzle.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to a temperature of 375°F (190°C).
Carefully pipe the churro dough into the hot oil, using kitchen scissors to cut the dough at the desired length.
Fry the churros until they are golden brown and crispy, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Remove the churros from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon together. Roll the warm churros in the cinnamon sugar mixture until coated evenly.
To make the chocolate dipping sauce, melt your preferred chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave, stirring until smooth and glossy.
Serve the warm churros alongside the rich and velvety chocolate dipping sauce, and savor every crispy bite.

Churros are best enjoyed while still warm and crispy, so gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and indulge in this beloved Spanish delicacy.

Gulab Jamun

Origin: India

Embark on a culinary journey to India with the delectable sweet treat known as Gulab Jamun. This Indian dessert is made from deep-fried dough balls that are then soaked in a rich syrup flavored with cardamom and rosewater. Gulab Jamun is a true celebration of sweetness and fragrant spices, and it is impossible to resist the allure of these syrup-soaked delights.

To make homemade Gulab Jamun, you will need milk powder, all-purpose flour, baking powder, ghee, milk, sugar, cardamom, and rosewater. The dough for Gulab Jamun is made by combining milk powder, all-purpose flour, and a leavening agent such as baking powder. The dough is then shaped into small balls and deep-fried until golden brown. The fried dough balls are finally soaked in a luscious syrup infused with aromatic cardamom and fragrant rosewater.

Here is a recipe for homemade Gulab Jamun:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk powder, all-purpose flour, and baking powder.
Add a small amount of ghee to the dry ingredients and mix well. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs.
Gradually add milk to the mixture, a little at a time, and knead gently until a soft and smooth dough forms.
Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a smooth ball, ensuring there are no cracks.
In a deep pan or skillet, heat vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat for deep-frying.
Test the oil’s temperature by dropping a small piece of dough into the pan. If it rises to the surface and bubbles gently, the oil is ready.
Gently place the dough balls into the hot oil, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until they turn a golden brown color, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Once the Gulab Jamun balls are evenly fried, remove them from the hot oil using a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
In a separate saucepan, combine sugar and water to create the syrup. Add a few crushed cardamom pods for flavor and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Simmer the syrup for a few minutes until it thickens slightly, then add a few drops of rosewater for a fragrant aroma. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
Drop the fried Gulab Jamun balls into the warm syrup, ensuring they are completely submerged. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve the Gulab Jamun warm or at room temperature, along with a drizzle of syrup.

Gulab Jamun is a popular dessert served during celebrations and festivals in India, and now you can savor its sweet and aromatic flavors from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Cannoli

Origin: Italy

When it comes to Italian desserts, cannoli is an absolute classic. These crispy pastry tubes filled with a sweet and creamy ricotta cheese filling are a joy to behold and a delight to taste. Originating from Italy, cannoli has become a beloved treat worldwide, and its combination of flaky pastry and luscious filling is sure to impress.

To make cannoli shells and filling at home, you will need pastry shells, ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and optional additions like chocolate chips or candied fruit. The cannoli shells are made by creating a dough from flour, sugar, and butter, which is then rolled thin and fried to achieve a golden and crispy texture. The ricotta cheese filling is made by combining creamy ricotta cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract, resulting in a sweet and velvety cream that complements the crunchy shells perfectly.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making cannoli shells and filling:

For the cannoli pastry shells:

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and butter until crumbly.
Gradually add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
Knead the dough until smooth and then wrap it in plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until it is thin, about 1/8 inch thick.
Use a circular cutter to cut out rounds from the dough. The size of the cutter will determine the size of the cannoli shells.
Wrap each round of dough around a cannoli tube, sealing the edges with a dab of water.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to a temperature of 375°F (190°C).
Carefully place the wrapped cannoli tubes into the hot oil, frying them until they are golden brown and crispy.
Remove the cannoli shells from the oil using tongs or a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
Allow the shells to cool completely before removing them from the tubes. Gently slide the shells off the tubes and set them aside.

For the ricotta filling:

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
If desired, fold in chocolate chips or candied fruit to add extra flavor and texture to the filling.
Place the filling in a piping bag fitted with a large star-shaped nozzle.
Pipe the filling into the cooled cannoli shells, filling them from each end until they are completely filled.
Dust the filled cannoli with powdered sugar and garnish with additional chocolate chips or candied fruit, if desired.

Cannoli can be enjoyed immediately, but if you prefer a softer filling, allow them to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, homemade cannoli are sure to impress and transport you to the streets of Italy.

Tarte Tatin

Origin: France

When it comes to French desserts, Tarte Tatin is a true masterpiece that cannot be missed. This classic dessert consists of an upside-down caramelized apple tart with a buttery pastry crust. Originating from France, Tarte Tatin is known for its luscious caramelized apples and golden pastry, making it the perfect indulgence for any occasion.

To make a classic Tarte Tatin at home, you will need apples, butter, sugar, and puff pastry. The key to a successful Tarte Tatin lies in achieving a perfectly caramelized topping and a flaky pastry base. This is achieved by first caramelizing the apples in butter and sugar before placing a layer of puff pastry on top and baking the tart until golden brown.

Here’s how to make a classic Tarte Tatin:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Peel, core, and slice the apples into thick slices.
In a large ovenproof skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add sugar to the melted butter, stirring until it dissolves and begins to caramelize.
Arrange the apple slices in the skillet, tightly packing them together in a single layer.
Cook the apples in the caramel for 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender and the caramel has thickened.
While the apples are cooking, roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it is slightly larger than the skillet.
Carefully place the puff pastry on top of the caramelized apples, tucking in the edges around the apples.
Using a fork, prick some holes in the pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the tart to cool for a few minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate.
Serve the Tarte Tatin warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the luscious caramelized apples and buttery pastry.

Tarte Tatin is typically enjoyed on its own, but you can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. So bring a taste of France to your kitchen and savor this exquisite dessert with your loved ones.

Brigadeiro

Origin: Brazil

Indulge in the rich flavors of Brazil with Brigadeiro, a beloved sweet treat that is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings. Brigadeiro is a popular Brazilian dessert made from condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and coated in sprinkles. It is traditionally served in the form of bite-sized chocolate truffles, making it the perfect indulgence for any occasion.

To make Brigadeiro truffles at home, you will need condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and chocolate sprinkles. The process of making Brigadeiro involves simmering the condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter together until it thickens to a fudgy consistency. The mixture is then shaped into small balls and rolled in chocolate sprinkles for a delightful finishing touch.

Follow this recipe to bring the flavors of Brazil into your own kitchen:

In a saucepan, combine the condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter.
Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring continuously to prevent burning, until it thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan. This should take approximately 10-15 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely.
Once the mixture has cooled, take small portions and roll them into bite-sized balls using your hands.
Pour the chocolate sprinkles into a shallow dish or plate.
Roll each Brigadeiro ball in the sprinkles until they are evenly coated.
Place the Brigadeiro truffles in small paper or foil cups for serving, or simply place them on a platter.
Repeat the process until all the mixture has been used.
Chill the Brigadeiro truffles in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow them to firm up.
Serve the Brigadeiro truffles at room temperature and savor the rich and fudgy sweetness.

Brigadeiro truffles are a favorite treat in Brazil, often found at parties and celebrations. Now you can enjoy their delectable flavors at home anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up or a delicious dessert to impress your guests.

With these 10 international desserts, you can expand your baking horizons and explore the flavors of different cultures. From the rich and creamy tiramisu to the crispy and sweet churros, each dessert offers a unique taste and experience. So gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and embark on a culinary adventure right in your own kitchen. Happy baking!