Italy boasts tons of pasta and Parmesan cheese with Designation of Origin. Japan is synonymous with ramen, onigiri and miso soup. Chile and Peru vie for the legendary pisco sour cocktail. But what defines Aruban cuisine? Located in the Caribbean, this island blends Amerindian, European, and African influences. That is why its food highlights ingredients such as fish, corn, beans, plantains, and aromatic species… Plus a few well-kept secrets that always leave a lasting impression on global foodies.
However, this vibrant mix does not stop at starters, entrées, or main courses. It also shines in Aruban desserts, often the cherry on top of any gathering. Think delicate coconut perfected over decades, and crisp waffles brought from Holland’s Christmas markets to the tropics. These are definitely temptations that no sweet tooth can resist. Here are three of the most popular ones to keep in mind when ordering.
Tasting Aruba: A glimpse into its sweetest side
Many seasoned travelers say there is no better way to immerse yourself in a destination’s culture than by eating your way through it. And we at Ocean Z agree! In fact, we believe the same rule applies to the dessert menu. That is why we are sharing three typical Aruban desserts, so you can savor the true charm of this island.
Food in Aruba: Indulge in these dishes for authentic island flavors
Stroopwafels
Legend has it that the oldest recipe for stroopwafels, which translates to “syrup waffles”, was formulated in 1840. Credit: Milou Moors/Unsplash
The city of Gouda not only produces some of the smoothest cheeses but also holds the title of being the birthplace of stroopwafels. These sandwich-like cookies feature thin, round waffles filled with a sticky mix of sugar, butter, and cinnamon. Their rich flavor quickly gained notoriety and turned them into a staple at Christmas markets across Europe. But how did they cross the Atlantic and land on a list about Aruban desserts? The answer lies in colonization. When the Dutch arrived in Aruba in 1636, they brought King’s Day, gambrel roofs, and even their legal system.
This cultural export grew over time, introducing Dutch food into local homes. Among the sweets, crunchy stroopwafels now line the shelves of bakeries, markets, and souvenir shops. The classic remains the favorite, but the ones with coconut and other flavors also draw fans. Other Dutch creations that have shaped the island’s palate include their version of pancakes, always served with powdered sugar and syrup.
Bolo di cashupete
During the Christmas season, bolo di cashupete is topped with red or green maraschino cherries. Credit: Emma Miller/Unsplash
Divi Divi trees are not the only ones that thrive in Aruba. Inland, you will also spot native trees with branches full of bright orange cashew apples. Locals turn to their nuts all the time, especially for the beloved bolo di cashupete. Rich and creamy (the kind that makes your jaw lock from pure delight), this cake starts with a buttery sponge base, sometimes amped up with chopped nuts for extra crunch. Once cooled, it gets a glossy beige icing made from ground raw cashews, condensed milk, sugar, and a hint of almond extract or rum for added depth and deliciousness. Although it is hard to resist the temptation to dive in right away, we recommend waiting until the golden hour and pairing a generous slice with a good cup of Douwe Egberts coffee.
If you would like to go beyond Aruban desserts and learn more about the meals you should eat before bolo di cashupete, download our free guide. From deep-fried black bean balls to traditional keshi yena, every option is a reason to visit this paradise.
Quesillo
Since it is kept in the fridge, the quesillo is the ideal Aruban dessert to cool off and combat the Caribbean sun. Credit: Jonathan Borba/Pexels
You can never go wrong by combining condensed milk, a dash of vanilla extract, and caramelized sugar, the essential trio behind the classic flan enjoyed in many countries. The Aruban version is known as “kesio” in Papiamento, or, more commonly, “quesillo”, a name it shares with neighboring Bonaire, Curaçao, and Venezuela. You will find this dessert in almost any establishment, often enhanced with pineapple juice or a splash of liqueur, usually brandy or rum, on special occasions. It might take a few tries to master, but it is surprisingly easy to make. If you would like to give it a try at home, you can follow this simple recipe.
Wine in Aruba: Where to taste the island’s finest labels
Ocean Z Restaurant: A seaside feast in Noord
Credit: Ocean Z Hotel & Restaurant Aruba
Every memorable trip deserves a top-notch dining experience, and Ocean Z Restaurant is the perfect place to check that off your list. Here, the atmosphere is serene, the service is personalized, and the food is crafted with dedication. While the seafood paella is always the talk of the town, be sure to try other menu options like the pumpkin soup, an Aruban icon with an OZ twist, the lamb chops, and the catch of the day. And for dessert? You will have to see that for yourself when you visit. Click the button below to make a reservation today.
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