Who here has a sweet tooth? If you're like me, the only thing that can perfectly end any meal is a sweet treat. But, instead of ordering just any dessert that you could find in any standard diner or restaurant across the country, you should consider trying something more Southwest in origin. If you're not sure where to start, below is a list of some of the best Arizona desserts to get you started.
1. Buñuelos
Found across Latin America, any buñuelos you find in Arizona will probably be served more Mexican-style, which also happens to highly resemble another item on our list: fry bread. A little thinner and crispier than the fry bread you are used to eating, buñuelos are often found in panderias and a few modest restaurants across Arizona.
2. Chocolate tamales
While chocolate tamales might not sound particularly appetizing to those who haven't tried them, they are truly a delectable treat. Those who crave a sweeter version of this steamed, corn-based favorite will definitely want to give it a try. Other sweet flavors incorporate various combinations of fruit and nuts and are quite delicious as well.
3. Date shake
While dates may not be indigenous to Arizona, the western side of the state that creeps into the c-word (California) has a couple of large, well-known date farms. You can find plenty of different date foods and confections but a surprisingly good favorite? Date shakes. The simplest recipe calls for milk, dates, ice, and maybe a touch of cinnamon blended into a silky drink.
4. Fry bread
You will find fry bread in just about every Indigenous home across the states but the Navajo have taken ownership of its creation. Following the Long Walk and during internment at Hwéeldi (Bosque Redondo), the people were given rations of food otherwise unfamiliar to them: flour, salt, lard, coffee, and other foods not a part of their diet. Out of that experience came fry bread. Puffy, golden, and a hint of chewy, fry bread can be used for both sweet and savory dishes. One of the best ways to eat it is also the simplest: piping hot, drizzled with honey. Your best opportunities to get the most fresh and tasty fry bread at at reservation restaurants for sure.
5. Piñon pie
If the Southwest had its own version of pecan pie, this could be it. Using pine nuts (pinon's) instead of pecans, the recipe comes together quite similarly to the Thanksgiving classic. While you may associate them more with pesto, the rich buttery taste of pine nuts definitely makes for a perfect dessert.
6. Prickly pear anything
Typically, you will find this delightful flavor in the form of a jelly, candy, or mixed in drinks. You can find the jelly and candies in most tourist shops or small markets. Drinks can be found in select restaurants, as can sorbet, the perfect treat to cool you off on a balmy Arizona day.
7. Sopapillas/Sopaipillas
Cross a puff pastry with fry bread, and what do you get? A sopapilla! Many consider these fried squares Arizona's dessert of choice, even though some may consider them more prominent in New Mexican cuisine. It doesn't matter though; they are still perfect hot and covered in something sweet, like honey, powdered sugar, or agave nectar for the more health conscious.
8. Tres leches cake
Sweet, moist, and incredibly light, tres leches cake is basically a sponge cake soaked in a milk mixture. There are tasty versions to be found in some supermercados but we recommend checking the menu at local Mexican restaurants and bakeries for the best versions available.
Have you tasted any of these desserts? Let us know which of the best Arizona desserts is your absolute favorite! If you are now hankering for some good frybread, you'll want to gas up the car and hop on the road for our best frybread in Arizona road trip.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!