Quirky Foodster
  1. Back

Desserts

Habichuelas con Dulce

The Quirky Foodster Team

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (0)
15 min
Prep
30 min
Cook

Ingredients

  • 500 g (2.5 cups) Red beans, cooked and pureed
  • 500 ml (2 cups) Whole milk
  • 400 ml (1 3/4 cups) Coconut milk
  • 250 g (1.25 cups) Sugar
  • 1 Cinnamon stick
  • 3 Cloves
  • 150 g (5 oz) Sweet potato, diced
  • 60 g (1/3 cup) Raisins
  • as needed Milk cookies (galletas de leche), for serving

Method

  1. Puree cooked beans with some of their cooking liquid until smooth.
  2. Combine bean puree, milk, coconut milk, sugar, cinnamon and cloves in a pot over medium heat.
  3. Add sweet potato and simmer 20 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens and the sweet potato is tender.
  4. Stir in raisins and simmer 5 more minutes.
  5. Serve warm or chilled in bowls topped with crumbled milk cookies.

Introduction: This sweet cream of beans, milk, coconut, spices and raisins is a beloved Dominican Lenten dessert traditionally prepared during Holy Week, when families gather to enjoy the labor-intensive dish topped with sweet ‘galletas de leche’ cookies.

Cultural Background: This sweet cream of beans, milk, coconut, spices and raisins is a beloved Dominican Lenten dessert traditionally prepared during Holy Week, when families gather to enjoy the labor-intensive dish topped with sweet ‘galletas de leche’ cookies.

Tips: Stir frequently near the end to prevent scorching as the mixture thickens. The dessert continues to thicken as it cools, so remove from heat while still slightly loose.

Variations: Add a splash of red wine for a traditional festive touch. Top with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon before serving. Naturally vegetarian; use plant-based milk for a vegan version.

Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring, or serve cold.

Nutrition: Calories: 340 | Protein: 8g | Carbs: 58g | Fat: 9g

FAQs

Q: Why is a bean dessert eaten during Lent?
A: It became customary as a filling, meat-free treat suitable for Lenten fasting traditions, and evolved into a cherished Holy Week ritual.

© Arscale 2026