Desserts

Sweet dishes from African cuisines

Recipes in Desserts

Explore our collection of recipes in desserts featuring traditional and modern African cooking techniques. These recipes showcase authentic flavors, ingredients, and methods passed down through generations.

From quick everyday meals to special occasion dishes, discover how African cuisine uses recipes in desserts to create flavorful, nutritious, and culturally significant food that tells the story of diverse culinary traditions across the continent.

Chebakia (Moroccan Sesame Cookies)

Chebakia is a treasured Moroccan dessert, specially served during the holy month of Ramadan alongside Harira, a hearty lentil soup. The sweet, floral notes of the Chebakia balance the savory depth of the soup, making them an inseparable pair in the iftar meal. This fragrant treat is shaped like a rose, deep-fried, then drenched in honey. Its allure lies in its intricate shape and the nutty crunch of sesame seeds. Making Chebakia is often a communal activity, bringing families together to prepare these delightful sweets in anticipation of iftar.

2 hours

10 servings

Desserts

Magrood (Date-filled Semolina Cookies)

Magrood is a cherished traditional dessert from Libya, made especially for special occasions and family gatherings. These semolina cookies are delicately crafted with a sweet, spiced date filling, offering a delightful contrast between the tender cookie and the rich, chewy center. Their diamond shape is not only aesthetically appealing but also symbolic, representing the precious moments shared with loved ones. The cookies are traditionally served with mint tea, creating a perfect balance of sweet and refreshing flavors.

45 minutes

20 servings

Desserts

Om Ali (Ali's Mother)

Om Ali, or Ali's Mother, is a treasured Egyptian dessert, steeped in history and tradition. This rich, creamy bread pudding is known for its irresistible blend of flaky pastry, sweet cream, and a medley of nuts. It's a delightful dessert that has become synonymous with celebrations and gatherings, often served during Ramadan and on other festive occasions. This heartwarming dessert is traditionally served in a clay or ceramic dish, and it's best enjoyed warm, when the creamy sauce and pastry meld together in a symphony of textures. Despite its humble ingredients, Om Ali is a testament to the joy of sharing food with loved ones.

30 minutes

6 servings

Desserts

Tamina, Toasted Semolina Pudding

Tamina is a traditional Algerian dessert made from semolina, butter, and honey. This rich, sweet treat is often prepared to celebrate the birth of a child and served to guests who come to meet the newborn. It has a comforting texture and a warm, toasted flavor that embodies the joyous occasion. Tamina is traditionally served on a large plate for communal sharing, signaling the shared happiness and unity of the family and community. To enjoy Tamina, it's custom to take a spoonful directly from the serving dish, underscoring the communal aspect of this special time. Accompany this dessert with a cup of mint tea to balance its rich sweetness.

30 minutes

8 servings

Desserts

Makroud (Algerian Date-Filled Semolina Cookies)

Makroud is a traditional Algerian dessert, particularly popular in the Kabylie region. These semolina cookies, filled with a sweet date paste, are a staple during religious celebrations like Eid and weddings. The cookies are deep-fried until golden, then soaked in honey or syrup, resulting in a satisfying contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft, sweet interior. Traditionally, makroud are shaped into diamonds and served on a communal platter, encouraging shared enjoyment. They're often paired with mint tea, creating a harmonious interplay of sweet and bitter flavors.

1 hour

12 servings

Desserts