Top 10 Latin American Desserts to Try in Melbourne

Latin American desserts are a feast for the senses, bringing together rich flavours, luscious textures, and vibrant traditions. From creamy custards to sweet caramel-filled delights, these treats capture the heart of South American culture.

Melbourne, with its diverse culinary scene, is the perfect place to explore these rapidly emerging indulgent sweets, both in the city and Australia-wide.

Here are the top 10 Latin American desserts you must try in Melbourne, along with their cultural significance and provenance.

1. Alfajores

Argentina, Peru, Colombia & Venezuela

These delicate sandwich biscuits are filled with dulce de leche, a creamy caramel spread that’s pure bliss. Alfajores often have a coating of powdered sugar, chocolate, or coconut, making them irresistible. They’re a staple at celebrations and make the perfect accompaniment to coffee or tea.

2. Tres Leches Cake

Mexico, Central America, Venezuela

This ultra-moist sponge cake is soaked in three types of milk: evaporated, condensed, and cream. Topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, it’s a dessert that’s as light as it is indulgent. Tres leches cake is a crowd-pleaser at birthdays and festive gatherings.

3. Churros

Spain, Popular in Latin America

Golden, crispy, and coated in cinnamon sugar, churros are the ultimate comfort food. Paired with a rich chocolate dipping sauce, or ideally Dulce de Leche sauce, they’re a popular street food and a symbol of indulgence.

4. Dulce de Leche

Mainly Argentina & Uruguay, yet also in Venezuela and Colombia

More than just an ingredient, dulce de leche is a cultural icon. Made by caramelizing sweetened milk, it’s used in cakes, cookies, and even eaten by the spoonful. Its creamy sweetness is universally loved.

5. Pavé

Brazil

A chilled layered dessert similar to tiramisu, pavé features alternating layers of biscuits and creamy fillings, often flavored with chocolate or fruit. It’s a favorite at Christmas and other family celebrations. 

6. Brigadeiros

Brazil

These chocolate truffles are a beloved treat at birthday parties. Made with condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter, brigadeiros are rolled in sprinkles or nuts. They’re easy to make and impossible to resist. Learn how to make them as part of our Latin Street Food Desserts masterclass.

7. Cocada

Colombia, Chile, Brazil & Venezuela

A sweet and chewy coconut treat, cocadas come in various forms—baked, boiled, or roasted. They’re often sold as street food, making them a nostalgic snack for many.

8. Flan

Mexico & Latin America

A creamy caramel custard, flan is a classic dessert with a velvety texture and a rich caramel topping. It’s served in homes and restaurants alike, proving that simplicity can be incredibly satisfying.

9. Suspiro Limeño

Peru

This Peruvian delight combines creamy caramel custard topped with a fluffy meringue. It’s a dessert that balances richness and lightness perfectly, offering a “sigh of Lima” in every bite. Learn how to make it together with other delights in our Latin Afternoon Tea workshop.

10. Pastelitos

Cuba & Puerto Rico

These flaky pastries are filled with guava paste and cream cheese, offering a balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, pastelitos are a taste of the Caribbean.

Discover Latin American Desserts in Melbourne

At Margot & Montañez, we celebrate the flavours of Latin America with every dessert we craft. Whether you’re looking to indulge in alfajores, savor a tres leches cake, or share a tray of brigadeiros, our Melbourne-based boutique bakery offers the best of Latin sweets.

Explore these treats and order online for a taste of South America at home in Australia.