Haitian Kremas (also spelled Cremas or Kremass) is a traditional Haitian drink, often enjoyed during festive occasions such as Christmas, New Year’s, and weddings. This rich, creamy, and spiced beverage combines coconut cream, sweetened condensed milk, and dark rum, enhanced by a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. It’s a Haitian staple during the holidays.
Each family in Haiti has its own variation of Kremas, with recipes passed down through generations. Though traditionally reserved for special moments, Kremas is incredibly easy to make at home, leading to its growing popularity outside of Haiti.
The smooth texture and tropical flavors of Kremas make it the perfect indulgence for holiday parties or gatherings. More than just a traditional drink, it offers a delicious alternative to other holiday beverages like eggnog.
The Perfect Eggnog Alternative
Looking to switch up your usual holiday drinks? Haitian Kremas is an excellent substitute for eggnog. While eggnog is a holiday staple in many households, it can feel heavy and predictable. Kremas, with its tropical twist, provides a refreshing yet comforting option for the colder months.
More Haitian Recipes
- Haitian Rum Cake Recipe
- Haitian Pâté Kodé – Haitian Patties
- Haitian Tasso and Griot: The Ultimate Taste Showdown
Why Choose Kremas Over Eggnog?
- Rich and Creamy: Like eggnog, Kremas boasts a smooth, thick texture. However, it’s made with coconut cream and sweetened condensed milk, offering a unique depth of flavor that is both rich and light.
- Spiced and Aromatic: Kremas is infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, but also incorporates tropical notes of vanilla and coconut, setting it apart from traditional eggnog.
- Rum-Based: Both eggnog and Kremas contain alcohol, but while eggnog typically features brandy or bourbon, Kremas uses dark rum, giving it a distinctive Caribbean flair.
- Easy to Make: Kremas is simple to prepare at home, requiring no complicated cooking, making it a stress-free addition to your holiday festivities.
If you’re ready to refresh your holiday traditions, switching from eggnog to Kremas is a fantastic way to introduce something new while keeping the festive spirit alive.
How to Make Haitian Kremas
Ready to try this delicious and creamy Haitian beverage? Here’s a quick and easy recipe that you can prepare in no time.
Storage: Kremas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Be sure to shake the bottle before serving, as the ingredients may settle.
Pro Tips:
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sweetened condensed milk according to taste.
- For a richer flavor, prepare Kremas a day in advance to allow the flavors to develop.
Haitian Kremas: A Simple Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 can 14 oz of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can 13.5 oz of coconut cream (unsweetened)
- 1 can 12 oz of evaporated milk
- 1 cup of dark rum ( Barbancourt to keep it true) adjust to taste
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon of almond extract optional
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1-2 tsp fresh lime juice ( do not use the packaged stuff)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, coconut cream, and evaporated milk until smooth and fully blended.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, lime juice, and lime zest.
- Slowly add the dark rum, tasting as you go to ensure the drink isn’t too strong or too mild for your preference. Adjust the amount as needed.
- Transfer the mixture into a glass bottle or a pitcher and refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together. Serve chilled in small glasses, preferably over ice. Note that it taste better the next day and thicken a bit.
- Kremas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just make sure to shake the bottle before serving as the ingredients may settle.
Notes
Nutritional Information (per 1 serving, approx. 4 oz)
- Calories: ~320 calories
- Carbs: ~35-40 grams
- Fat: ~20 grams
- Protein: ~5 grams
- Sugar: ~35 grams
Helpful Notes:
- Rum Adjustment: You can adjust the rum to your liking or even omit it for a non-alcoholic version.
- Customization: Kremas can be made sweeter or less sweet depending on your taste. You can also add more coconut for a thicker texture.
- Storing: It gets better with time, so making it a day in advance can enhance the flavor. Be sure to refrigerate leftovers, and shake or stir well before serving as separation can occur.
I was born and grew up in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, where my grandmas, mom, and aunts taught me everything about cooking. Now, I live in the US, and I love hiking, reading, and making meals for my family.
