Desserts are a vast and diverse world unto themselves. From chocolaty to nutty to fruity, there are so many different types of desserts that sometimes it can become overwhelming to keep track of all of them. That’s why most professional bakers and master chefs prefer to categorise their desserts in some way, and the most convenient and easiest way to categorise desserts is in alphabetical order.
This article will focus on some of the most renowned desserts, starting with the letter F. This is quite a versatile list, and the desserts all originate from various parts of the world. They are also unique in texture and taste, making use of a host of sweets as well as local and imported ingredients. However, no matter where they are from or what they are made of, they are equally delicious and widely beloved.
Check out the six most popular desserts, beginning with the letter 'F'.
Fruit Tart
A decadent French invention, the fruit tart is a scrumptious and dazzling medley of flavours that is guaranteed to leave you wanting more. The buttery pastry crust seamlessly combines with the sinful custard filling and an assortment of fresh fruits, such as berries, to form a deeply satisfying and unforgettable dessert. The tart can be customised per preference as well; you can keep it limited to one fruit or use a variety of fruits to craft this refreshing and elegant, sweet dish.
Finnish Pulla
Hailing from the Scandinavian country of Finland, the Finnish Pulla is a type of sweet bread that is characterised by its distinctive braided shape and heavy sprinkling of pearl sugar on the surface. Contemporary versions of this classic bread come in a host of eclectic flavours, including cinnamon, berries, and cardamom-spiced apples. The sweet dish is a staple during Finnish festivals and special occasions and is also savoured in Finnish households throughout the year, evoking a sense of warmth and nostalgia.
Flan
Flan is a traditional Latin American delicacy that has taken the global culinary scene by storm. Considered a cousin to the French classic crème brulee, flan is composed of a soft and smooth vanilla-infused custard that is topped off with a crown of caramelised sugar. This sugar liquefies and spreads across the custard to give it a shiny and ethereal look that enhances its visual appeal. This dish is typically eaten with berries to help provide a counterbalance to the sweetness of caramel.
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Floating Island
Like the fruit tart, Floating Island is a French delicacy that is prepared with meringue floating on vanilla crème anglaise (custard). It is quite challenging to get this dessert right as it requires very precise quantities of the required ingredients; thus, when it comes out right, it is considered a culinary masterpiece. The meringue is made by baking egg whites, sugar, and vanilla extract in a bain-marie, whereas the crème anglaise is prepared by boiling egg yolks, vanilla, and milk.
Funnel Cake
Originating in the USA in the 17th–18th century, the funnel cake is a simple and delightful, sweet dish that evokes a sense of childhood and playfulness. The batter is made from flour, eggs, milk, and sugar. Once prepared, it is poured through a funnel into boiling hot oil, resulting in the formation of crispy, golden strands. These strands are sprinkled with generous helpings of powdered sugar and can be consumed with lots of fun toppings, including berries, whipped cream, and chocolate syrup.
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Fudge
A globally beloved classic, fudge is believed to have been invented in the USA. Relished for its melt-in-the-mouth texture, it is prepared using three primary ingredients—sugar, milk, and butter. These ingredients are combined and warmed, forming a sophisticated, mouthwatering, and highly customisable dessert. This sweet dish is available in a diverse range of flavours, from chocolate and caramel to strawberry and mint. Whether enjoyed as an evening snack or a post-dinner dessert, there is never a wrong time to indulge in some fudge!