Unapologetically Indulgent: Guilt-Free Latino Holiday Treats That’ll Make You Say ‘F*ck It, I Deserve This’
The last week of the year is upon us, and with it comes our desire to be over and done with it. Moreover, we look forward to welcoming 2024 in our pajamas and eating our favorite Latino holiday treats guilt-free.
After all the mercuries retrogrades, rampant inflation, and the world falling apart, eating a churro con chocolate or an empanada isn’t going to change much, is it?
Now, seriously speaking, who invented the guilt of eating at Christmas? That person surely didn’t have to survive a Latino family meal, nor the existential doubt of whether I should launch my own business next year or continue living paycheck-to-paycheck.
And while sugar and calories aren’t going to give me the winning lottery numbers, they will surely give me the serotonin boost I so desperately need to start 2024.
So grab a dessert fork and get ready to dig in because you f***ing deserve it!
Tres Leches Cake is definitely a staple
Let’s kick this indulgence party off with a classic that needs no introduction — Tres Leches Cake. This moist sponge cake soaked in three different milks is like a dessert symphony in your mouth. It’s the kind of treat that’ll make you blissfully forget about counting calories.
Transform the classic Tres Leches into a guilt-free pleasure by using coconut or almond milk and opting for a sugar substitute.
Aguacate Chocolate Mousse:
Avocado lovers, rejoice! Blend ripe avocados with cocoa powder and a touch of honey for a creamy and indulgent chocolate mousse high in healthy fats.
Did anyone say Cuban Flan?
Prepare to be whisked away to flantastic flavor town (yes, we actually wrote that), where creamy custard meets a luscious caramel sauce. Cuban Flan is the ultimate guilt-free indulgence that’ll have you saying, “I’m living my best dessert life.” With every seductive spoonful, you’ll experience a moment of pure indulgence that’ll leave you craving more.
Give traditional Flan a healthy twist by using low-fat milk and cutting back on the sugar. Abuela’s secret touch remains intact, but now you can savor this creamy delight guilt-free.
No puede faltar el Arroz con Leche
Close your eyes and imagine a velvety blend of rice, milk, and just a hint of cinnamon. That’s the magic of Arroz con Leche, a comforting treat that’ll make you say, “Who needs self-control anyway?” This creamy rice pudding is pure nostalgia in a bowl, bringing back cozy memories of Abuelita’s cooking.
Put a nutritious spin on the classic arroz con leche by incorporating chia seeds. This guilt-free treat is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Nothing says ‘holiday treat’ like Pastelitos de Guayaba
These flaky pastry pockets filled with sweet guava are about to rock your world. Pastelitos de Guayaba are an irresistible treat that proves life is too short for boring desserts. Take a bite of this heavenly combination of crunchy pastry and gooey guava, and let your taste buds dance away any feeling of guilt.
Opt for whole wheat or alternative flours for the dough, and enjoy the perfect blend of sweetness and warmth.
What about some healthy Alfajores?
Put a nutritious spin on the classic alfajores by opting for whole-grain or almond flour for the cookies. Fill them with a layer of homemade sugar-free dulce de leche for a guilt-free delight.
A jicama fruit salad with tajín is also delicious
Create a refreshing and guilt-free fruit salad using jicama as the base. Sprinkle it generously with Tajín seasoning for a zesty kick that elevates the flavors without compromising on health.
Baked plantain chips with cilantro lime dip are ideal for rewatching ‘Love Actually’ for the eleventh time
Say goodbye to fried snacks and hello to guilt-free indulgence with baked plantain chips. Pair them with a zesty cilantro lime dip for a satisfying crunch that won’t leave you feeling weighed down.