There are many ways to elevate desserts and adding spice to them is a great idea! From the fiery kick of chilli peppers to the warmth of cinnamon and ginger, the spice can offer a terrific balance of sweetness and heat to desserts. For example, cinnamon pairs well with apples, nutmeg with creamy custards, ginger with citrus fruits, and chilli with chocolate.
When adding spices to desserts, it's essential to strike the right balance between sweetness and heat. If you’re trying to explore spiced desserts at home, be mindful not to overpower the dessert with too much spice, as it can overwhelm the other flavours. Here are some spicy desserts which will thrill your tastebuds!
Mexican Chocolate Chili Cake
Mexican Chocolate Chili Cake is a decadent treat that combines rich chocolate with the bold flavours of chilli peppers. The heat from the chilli peppers enhances the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a harmonious blend of flavours. Served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this cake is a rich and complex wonder.
Thai Mango Sticky Rice with Chili Syrup
This traditional Thai dessert features ripe mangoes served atop sweet and sticky rice, drizzled with spicy chilli-infused syrup. The combination of sweet, creamy mangoes with the subtle heat of the chilli syrup is simply irresistible. Each bite is a burst of tropical flavours with a spicy twist.
Indian Masala Chai Ice Cream
In India, masala chai is a beloved beverage enjoyed for its aromatic spices and warming properties. But have you ever tried it in ice cream form? Masala Chai Ice Cream takes the traditional flavours of Indian chai—such as cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves—and churns them into a creamy frozen treat. It’s a sweet blend of creamy sweetness with a hint of spice, perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
Jamaican Jerk Pineapple
Jamaican cuisine is known for its bold flavours and spicy kick, and Jamaican Jerk Pineapple is no exception. This tantalizing dessert features fresh pineapple slices marinated in a fiery jerk seasoning blend, then grilled to caramelized perfection. The combination of sweet pineapple with the savoury-sweet heat of the jerk seasoning creates a mouthwatering contrast of flavours and textures.
Korean Honey Butter Chip Cookies
Korean cuisine is not typically associated with spicy desserts, but these Honey Butter Chip Cookies offer a surprising twist. Inspired by the popular Korean snack, honey butter chips, these cookies feature a delicate balance of sweetness and spice. Infused with honey, butter, and a hint of cayenne pepper, these cookies have a subtle warmth that sneaks up on you with each bite.
Moroccan Spiced Date Cake
Moroccan cuisine is renowned for its use of aromatic spices, and this Spiced Date Cake is a perfect example. Made with sweet dates, warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and a touch of fiery cayenne pepper, this cake is a sensory delight. The sweetness of the dates pairs beautifully with the heat from the spices, creating a comforting dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Serve it warm with a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
American Cajun Pralines
These sugary confections are a beloved treat in Louisiana, where they're made with brown sugar, butter, cream, and pecans. But what gives them their spicy twist? It's the addition of cayenne pepper, which adds a subtle heat that lingers on the palate. The combination of sweet, creamy, and spicy makes Cajun Pralines a unique and addictive indulgence.