Cuban Boniatillo Sweet Potato Paste Dessert
A silky Cuban dessert featuring white sweet potatoes transformed into a custard-like paste with warm cinnamon and citrus notes. The potatoes are pureed then slowly cooked with sugar syrup until reaching a smooth, pudding-like consistency, finished with egg yolks for richness. Perfect for special occasions or as an elegant ending to Cuban meals, this traditional treat is served chilled and dusted with cinnamon. The optional sherry or vanilla adds aromatic depth to this beloved comfort dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs cuban white sweet potatoes, cubedregular sweet potatoes1:1common
slightly different flavor profile
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick, about 2 inches or longer
- 1 lime peel, of no pith, just the green part, use a vegetable peeler
- 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup dry sherry(optional)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla(optional)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon(optional)
- ground cinnamon, to garnish
Instructions
- 1
Place cubed potatoes in large saucepan, cover with water and add salt, boil until tender
- 2
Drain potatoes and puree in food processor or blender
- 3
Combine water, sugar, lime peel and cinnamon stick in large heavy saucepan
- 4
Cook until mixture reaches soft-ball stage, stirring frequently
- 5
Reduce heat to low, add potatoes and cook stirring until smooth
- 6
Remove from heat and add egg yolks, mix well
- 7
Return to low heat stirring constantly
- 8
Remove from heat and mix in either sherry or vanilla
- 9
Allow paste to cool at room temperature
- 10
Transfer to serving bowl or individual dishes and refrigerate
- 11
Sprinkle with cinnamon and serve cold
Tips
Use a candy thermometer to ensure the sugar syrup reaches exactly 250 degrees for proper consistency.
Puree the potatoes completely smooth to avoid any lumps in the final dessert.
Stir constantly when adding egg yolks to prevent them from scrambling in the hot mixture.
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days
Can be made 1-2 days ahead, refrigerate until serving
Serve chilled, dust with cinnamon just before serving
Common Mistakes
Add egg yolks gradually while stirring to avoid scrambling
Don't skip the candy thermometer to avoid grainy texture
Substitutions
slightly different flavor profile
FAQ
Can I use regular sweet potatoes instead of Cuban white ones?
Yes, regular orange sweet potatoes work but will have a stronger flavor and different color than the traditional version.
What if I don't have a candy thermometer?
Test the syrup by dropping a small amount in cold water - it should form a soft ball that flattens when removed.
How long will this keep in the refrigerator?
Boniatillo will keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though it's best enjoyed within 1-2 days.