The holiday season is just around the corner, and you know what that means – it’s time to break out the big guns, aka your favorite tembleque recipe! I’m obsessed with this traditional Puerto Rican dessert, and I’m about to share my top 5 variations that are guaranteed to win Christmas every time. But first, have you ever tried tembleque? It’s like a wobbly, creamy, coconutty dream come true. So, what makes it so special? For starters, it’s ridiculously easy to make, requiring only 5 ingredients. Yes, you read that right – 5!
The Classic Tembleque Recipe
This is the OG tembleque recipe that started it all. It’s a game-changer, trust me.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of coconut milk
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup of cornstarch
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together vanilla extract and cornstarch. Add this mixture to the saucepan and cook for 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and let cool. Refrigerate until set.
Why You’ll Love It:
This classic tembleque recipe is a staple for a reason. It’s creamy, it’s dreamy, and it’s ridiculously easy to make. Plus, it’s a great base for all the other variations you’ll find below. So, go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!
The Tropical Tembleque Recipe
Who says tembleque has to be boring? Add some tropical flavors to the mix and you’ve got a whole new dessert on your hands.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of coconut milk
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup of cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup of mango puree
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together vanilla extract and cornstarch. Add this mixture to the saucepan and cook for 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in pineapple juice and mango puree. Let cool and refrigerate until set.
Why You’ll Love It:
This tropical tembleque recipe is like a vacation in a bowl. The pineapple juice and mango puree add a sweet and tangy flavor that will transport you to a tropical paradise. So, if you’re looking for a dessert that’s a little more exotic, this is the way to go!
The Chocolate Tembleque Recipe
Because everything is better with chocolate, right?
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of coconut milk
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup of cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together vanilla extract and cornstarch. Add this mixture to the saucepan and cook for 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cocoa powder. Let cool and refrigerate until set.
Why You’ll Love It:
This chocolate tembleque recipe is for all you chocolate lovers out there. The cocoa powder adds a rich and decadent flavor that will satisfy your sweet tooth. So, if you’re looking for a dessert that’s a little more indulgent, this is the way to go!
The Boozy Tembleque Recipe
Adulting just got a whole lot sweeter!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of coconut milk
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup of cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons of rum
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together vanilla extract and cornstarch. Add this mixture to the saucepan and cook for 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in rum. Let cool and refrigerate until set.
Why You’ll Love It:
This boozy tembleque recipe is perfect for the holidays. The rum adds a kick that will keep you warm and cozy on those cold winter nights. So, if you’re looking for a dessert that’s a little more grown-up, this is the way to go!
The Vegan Tembleque Recipe
Because everyone deserves a delicious tembleque, regardless of their dietary restrictions!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of coconut milk
- 1/2 cup of maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup of cornstarch
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, maple syrup, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together vanilla extract and cornstarch. Add this mixture to the saucepan and cook for 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and let cool. Refrigerate until set.
Why You’ll Love It:
This vegan tembleque recipe is a game-changer for all you plant-based eaters out there. The maple syrup adds a rich and velvety texture that will make you forget all about the traditional version. So, if you’re looking for a dessert that’s a little more cruelty-free, this is the way to go!

In conclusion, these 5 tembleque recipes are sure to win Christmas every time. They’re easy, they’re delicious, and they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a classic kind of person or you like to mix things up, there’s a tembleque recipe out there for you. So, go ahead and give them a try – your taste buds will thank you! And remember, the best part about tembleque is that it’s ridiculously easy to make, requiring only 5 ingredients. Yes, you read that right – 5! Coconut milk, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and cornstarch are all you need to make this creamy and dreamy dessert. Happy baking!
