Nicaraguan Cajetas Recipe

Cajetas are one of Nicaragua's most beloved traditional sweets, famous for their rich, chewy texture and intense sweetness. While 'cajeta' can refer to milk caramel in other regions, Nicaraguan cajetas come in various forms, often made from a base of milk, sugar, and rice flour, or incorporated with fruits like coconut or papaya. The cities of Masaya and Diriamba are particularly renowned for their production of these artisanal treats.

These sweets hold a special place in Nicaraguan folklore and religious celebrations, particularly during 'La Gritería,' a festival honoring the Immaculate Conception of Mary, where they are distributed as gifts to devotees. They are typically sold in colorful assortments, sometimes packed in small wooden boxes or woven baskets. The most popular variety, Cajeta de Leche, offers a delicate balance of milky creaminess and sugary grit that melts in the mouth.