A Taste of Haiti: Haitian Cremas, or Kremas
Haitian Cremas is a delicious and delicate drink perfect for any occasion. It is similar to Bailey’s in taste and texture but with a unique Haitian twist. This refreshing beverage is made with coconut milk, condensed milk, rum, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and lime juice.
The ingredients in Haitian Cremas are simple, but the combination of flavors is truly special. The coconut milk and condensed milk provide a creamy base, while the rum adds a touch of warmth. The vanilla extract and nutmeg add depth of flavor, and the lime juice brightens everything up.
Haitian Cremas is typically served in small glasses, making it the perfect after-dinner drink or party favor. It is also a popular choice for celebrations such as christenings, communions, and weddings in the Haitian community.
If you are looking for a delicious and unique drink to try, Haitian Cremas is a great option. It is easy to make at home and is sure to impress your guests.
Let’s get started!
The ingredients you will need for Haitian Cremas
Here is a description of the ingredients in the Haitian Cremas recipe based on the article:
- Condensed milk: is a sweetened cow’s milk that has had a significant portion of the water removed. It is thick, syrupy, and much sweeter than regular milk.
- Cream of coconut: is a shelf-stable, canned product that is made from coconut milk, sugar, and stabilizers. It is thicker and sweeter than coconut milk, and it has a more intense coconut flavor. The author recommends using Goya, Thai Kitchen, or Whole Foods’ brand cream of coconut. If you use Trader Joe’s you must drink it right away as the fat from the coconut milk will separate from the creamy mixture.
- Dark rum, preferably Rhum Barbancourt: is a type of rum that has been aged in barrels for several years. It has a deep amber color and a complex flavor profile that includes notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. The author recommends using Rhum Barbancourt, a Haitian dark rum, but any good dark rum will work.
- Pure vanilla extract: is a flavoring agent that is made from vanilla beans. It has a sweet, floral aroma and a complex flavor that complements the other ingredients in Haitian Cremas.
- Ground nutmeg: is a spice that is made from the dried seeds of the nutmeg tree. It has a warm, nutty flavor that adds depth to Haitian Cremas.
- Fresh lime juice: is the juice of limes. It has a tart, acidic flavor that brightens up the other flavors in Haitian Cremas. The author recommends using fresh lime juice, not bottled lemon or lime juice.
The author recommends using fresh ingredients whenever possible, so if you can find fresh coconut milk or cream of coconut, that will result in the best-tasting Haitian Cremas.
When to serve Cremas
While Haitian Cremas is traditionally a celebratory drink enjoyed during holidays, its deliciousness can be enjoyed throughout the year! Here are some perfect times to savor this delightful beverage:
- Warm evenings: The creamy texture and hint of rum make Haitian Cremas a perfect nightcap to unwind after a long day.
- Tropical escape: Craving a taste of the Caribbean? Whip up a batch of Cremas and sip it poolside or on your patio for a refreshing tropical escape.
- Dessert accompaniment: The creamy sweetness of Haitian Cremas pairs beautifully with all sorts of desserts. Enjoy it alongside a slice of fruit cake, chocolate torte, or your favorite cookies.
- Game nights or potlucks: Add a unique touch to your next gathering. Surprise your friends with a batch of Haitian Cremas – it’s sure to be a conversation starter!
- Anytime you need a pick-me-up: The smooth texture and delicious flavors of Haitian Cremas can brighten up any day. Treat yourself to a glass for a quick and tasty mood boost.
Remember, the beauty of Haitian Cremas is its versatility. So, ditch the calendar restrictions and enjoy it whenever the mood strikes!
How to serve Cremas
While there is no single “best” dessert pairing for Haitian Cremas, there are certainly some cakes that complement its flavors beautifully. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Coconut Cake: A classic Caribbean flavor combination, coconut cake pairs perfectly with the creamy coconut and rum notes in Haitian Cremas. The sweetness of the cake will be balanced by the slight tartness of the Cremas, making for a truly delightful dessert experience.
- Spice Cake: The warm spices in a spice cake, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, will echo the warm spices sometimes found in Haitian Cremas (like nutmeg). This creates a harmonious and comforting flavor profile.
- Chocolate Cake: Chocolate cake is a crowd-pleaser, and it goes well with a variety of flavors, including Haitian Cremas. The richness of the chocolate will be complemented by the creaminess of the Cremas, making for a decadent and satisfying dessert.
- Coffee Cake: Coffee cake is another great option, especially if you’re enjoying Haitian Cremas as an after-dinner drink. The coffee flavor will complement the rum in the Cremas, while the cake’s crumb will provide a nice textural contrast to the smooth beverage.
- Pecan Pie: Pecan pie is a classic American dessert that can also be a great pairing for Haitian Cremas. The sweetness of the pie will be balanced by the creaminess of the Cremas, and the pecans will add a nice textural contrast.
Ultimately, the best dessert pairing for Haitian Cremas is a matter of personal preference. Experiment with different flavors and textures to find what you enjoy most!
This basic recipe was taken from the “Fine Haitian Cuisine” cookbook of Mona Cassion Menager. This version is very basic.
Notes and Tips
- Cremas should be served cold and stored in the refrigerator for precaution.
- Make sure you shake the cream from a canned coconut before mixing.
- To serve it during the holidays, preparing it about a month or two in advance is best, and store in a cool dry place.
- Use fresh ingredients, especially lime juice.
- Shake the cream of the coconut can before mixing.
- Cremas can be made ahead of time; refrigerate it for up to a month or two if homemade. It can be served over ice.
- Be sure to store it in the refrigerator in a glass container or bottle.
- The recipe yields about 6 cups. Always shake the container before serving.
- Storebought cremas, once open, can be left in your homemade bar in a cool area. It is best to store it in the refrigerator.
- Use a blender to mix the ingredients.
Cremas
Ingredients
- 2 cups Cream of Coconut sweetened
- 2 cups Condensed Milk
- 2 cups Dark Rum Rhum Barbancourt preferably or any good dark rum will do
- 2 tablespoons Pure Vanilla Extract
- 2 teaspoons Ground Nutmeg
- 4 teaspoons Fresh Lime Juice
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix all ingredients thoroughly. Pour into glass container or glass bottle and refrigerate until serving. It can also be served over ice. Always shake the bottle or glass container before serving. Store in the refrigerator. This recipe should yield about 6 cups.
Notes
Nutrition
Please keep in mind that nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary greatly based on the products used.
Nutrition info is automatically generated and provided as a courtesy and as an estimate only.
Corn Allergy:
Always choose ingredients without corn or corn derivatives.
Originally published on September 17, 2013. Updated content on August 25, 2023.
