Holiday Caakiri — South African Couscous Pudding Dessert

Caakiri (sometimes spelled thiakry or chakery) is a beloved West and Southern African dessert pudding traditionally made with millet or couscous. Smooth, lightly tangy, and gently sweet, it is served at weddings, family gatherings, and holiday celebrations. This version uses couscous with pineapple, papaya, and sour cream for a festive twist that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing.

Holiday Serving Idea: Present Caakiri chilled in a large glass bowl or portioned in small cups topped with papaya purée and a sprinkle of brown sugar for a warm, celebratory look.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

• 2 cups cooked couscous (steamed until fluffy)
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¾ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup canned crushed pineapple, drained
• ¼ cup papaya purée (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (plus extra for topping)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Optional: ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg or cinnamon for a spiced holiday flavor

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk and sour cream until smooth.
2. Fold in the couscous, pineapple, salt, and brown sugar. If you’d like a spiced note, add nutmeg or cinnamon.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill and allow the flavors to meld.
4. Before serving, spoon papaya purée on top and sprinkle with extra brown sugar.

Caakiri is loved for its silky creaminess balanced by the light chew of couscous. It’s an inviting dessert to bring to festive tables — easy to scale up, make ahead, and customize with fruit or spice.

Culinary Note: Traditionally, Caakiri is made with fermented milk or yogurt. This recipe uses sour cream for a subtle tang that’s easier to find while keeping the authentic balance of sweet and tart.

FAQ: Caakiri for Holiday Entertaining

Tip: Click each question below to reveal the answer.

Can I make Caakiri a day ahead?

Yes. Caakiri actually improves after chilling overnight, as the couscous absorbs the flavors. Stir before serving and add a fresh topping of fruit purée or spices.

What fruits work well besides pineapple and papaya?

Mango, passion fruit, or stewed dried fruits such as apricots pair beautifully with the creamy base. For a holiday feel, try pomegranate seeds or spiced poached pears.

Can I serve Caakiri warm?

Yes. While it’s often served chilled, gently warm it before adding fruit topping for a comforting winter dessert.

Is Caakiri gluten-free?

Not when made with couscous (which is wheat). For gluten-free, substitute steamed millet or quinoa — both traditional in parts of Africa.

How do I make Caakiri richer for holidays?

Swap some milk for heavy cream, add a splash of vanilla extract, or fold in whipped cream before serving for a lighter, mousse-like texture.

More African Desserts to Try

• Liberian Kanya Peanut Butter Candy
• Couscous with Honey
• Mango Potato Cake
• Sierra Leone Fresh Ginger Cake
• Breadfruit Buttermilk Honey Cake