Goa's Sweet Secrets: Discover the Best Desserts in Paradise

Goa is more than just a paradise of sandy beaches, and swaying palm trees. It is also a place of some of the most mouth-watering desserts you’ll ever taste. Beyond the famous fish curries and bebinca, Goa hides a treasure trove of sugary delights that will have your taste buds dancing the samba. Whether you're lounging by the beach or exploring the vibrant streets, these best desserts in Goa are a must-try for any sweet-toothed traveler.

1. Bebinca: The Quintessential Goan Layered Delight

Bebinca is to Goan desserts what a sun-drenched beach is to a holiday, absolutely essential! This traditional layered cake is a marvel of culinary craftsmanship. Each layer is meticulously baked to create a luscious, multi-layered sweet treat. So if you are celebrating your birthday in Goa, try this cake instead of the classic choice of Black Forest Birthday Cake.

Ingredients:

• 200 gm of all-purpose flour
• 300 gm of sugar
• 400 ml of coconut milk
• 150 gm of ghee
• 6 large eggs
• 5 gm cardamom powder
• A pinch of nutmeg
• 5 ml vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until fluffy. Gradually add in the coconut milk and melted ghee.
3. Stir in the flour, cardamom, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Pour a thin layer of batter into the pan and bake for 10-15 minutes at 180°C.
5. Repeat the process, layering and baking each layer separately. Patience is key here!
6. Allow the bebinca to cool completely before slicing into its delectable layers.

2. Feni-infused Coconut Ladoo: A Spirited Twist on a Classic

When you think of Goa, feni (a local spirit made from cashew or coconut) naturally comes to mind. These Feni-Infused Coconut Ladoo, are one of the best desserts in Goa and add a spirited twist to the traditional coconut balls.

Ingredients:

• 200 gm desiccated coconut
• 100 gm condensed milk
• 50 gm chopped cashews
• 50 gm chopped almonds
• 50 ml feni (or any other local spirit)
• 30 ml ghee
• A pinch of cardamom powder

Instructions:

1. Heat ghee in a pan and add the chopped cashews and almonds. Sauté until golden brown.
2. Add the desiccated coconut and cook for a few minutes.
3. Stir in the condensed milk and feni, mixing until well combined and the mixture starts to thicken.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shape into small balls.
5. Allow the ladoos to cool completely before enjoying this spirited treat!

3. Goan Coconut Custard: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite

Creamy, dreamy, and coconutty, Goan Coconut Custard is a dessert that’s as comforting as a lazy afternoon by the sea. Just a bite, and your regular Chocolate Pudding will have to take a backseat for some time.

Ingredients:

• 400 ml coconut milk
• 200 ml fresh cream
• 150 gm sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 5 ml vanilla extract
• 15 gm cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C. Place four ramekins in a baking dish.
2. In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, cream, and sugar. Heat until sugar is dissolved but not boiling.
3. In a bowl, whisk eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually add the warm coconut mixture to the eggs, whisking continuously.
4. Mix cornstarch with a bit of cold coconut milk and add to the custard mixture.
5. Pour the custard into the ramekins and place them in the baking dish. Fill the dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until set. Let cool before serving.

4. Sannas: Goan Sweet Steamed Breads

These fluffy, mildly sweet steamed breads are the perfect companion to any Goan meal. They’re like a hug for your taste buds, just like a warm slice of Chocolate Sponge Cake!

Ingredients:

• 250 gm rice flour
• 200 gm jaggery, grated
• 200 ml coconut milk
• 5 gm baking powder
• 5 gm yeast
• 100 ml warm water
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 10 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, mix rice flour, jaggery, and baking powder.
3. Add coconut milk and the yeast mixture. Stir until smooth.
4. Cover and let the batter rise in a warm place for about an hour.
5. Pour the batter into greased muffin tins or small bowls.
6. Steam for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.