Enjoy Some Tropical Flavors While It’s Cold

Though the weather outside is frightful, the desserts coming out of your kitchen can be oh-so delightful with these tropical-inspired treats. Kick your winter blues by making one of these delicious desserts this weekend!

Rose Cheesecake Tart

This no-bake cheesecake is the perfect tropical treat to whip up this winter! Since you won’t be baking the cheesecake, you’ll set it with unflavored gelatin instead of eggs as is traditional with cheesecake. In addition to orange zest in the filling, this cheesecake gets its tropical flavors from the mango and plum rose on top of the cheesecake. If you’ve never sliced fruit for decoration before, have no fear. The recipe from Food Network will walk you through the entire process and it will be a great exercise in knife skills!

Mango Coconut Ice Pops

Another mango-centric treat, these ice pops could not be easier to whip up. To make these pops, whisk together 1 1/4 cup coconut milk, 1 can sweetened condensed milk, 1 cup lime juice, and 1 tablespoon of lime juice.  Next, blend 2 cups of fresh chopped mango, 3/4 cup mango nectar, and 1/2 cup of the coconut lime mixture in a blender until pureed. Chop 1 cup of strawberry slices and layer them inside your ice pop molds. In each mold, pour a bit of the coconut lime mixture and a bit of the mango mixture, using a spoon to create a swirled pattern. Freeze for 4 to 6 hours until set.

Lemon Panna Cotta With Fruit

Though panna cotta may seem intimidating, with a little practice you’ll be nailing this refreshing dessert in no time! As this panna cotta recipe is lightly lemon flavored will pair well with almost any fruit your heart desires. For summery flavors, try topping your panna cotta with mixed berries, strawberries, lime, orange, peaches, or mango.

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Star Fruit Upside-Down Cake

You know pineapple upside-down cake, but have you ever considered making it with star fruit? Star fruit tastes very similar to apples and pairs well with the cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice that give this cake its flavor. As with any upside-down cake, make sure that your pan is very well greased to avoid losing your fruit to a sticky bottom!