Question 1: Which ingredient gives the Italian favorite tiramisu its distinct flavor?
- Cinnamon
- Coffee
- Ginger
Correct Answer: Coffee
Fact: This coffee-flavored treat is believed to have been invented in Italy in the 1960s, and the name is a variation on the Italian phrase 'tirami su,' which roughly translates to 'pick me up.' Who needs espresso?
Question 2: Poffertjes from the Netherlands are mini-versions of which American breakfast staple?
- Toast
- Waffles
- Pancakes
Correct Answer: Pancakes
Fact: These batter treats made from yeast and buckwheat are very similar to US pancakes, and are usually topped with butter, powdered sugar, and sometimes the traditional Dutch liquor advocaat, which has a custard-like consistency.
Question 3: What’s the name of Japan’s most famous rice cake treat?
- Mochi
- Dango
- Dorayaki
Correct Answer: Mochi
Fact: Mochi cakes are made with glutinous rice, water, sugar, and cornstarch, and often filled with an ice cream center. Popular mochi flavors include strawberry, matcha, mango, sesame, and red bean paste.
Question 4: Which English dessert’s name is a synonym for something that’s ‘of little value or importance?’
- Trifle
- Treacle tart
- Knickerbocker glory
Correct Answer: Trifle
Fact: A trifle is usually made by layering sponge cake soaked in sherry, fruit, custard, and whip cream topping into a glass dish. Despite its name, this British treat is definitely not a waste of time!
Question 5: Gulab Jamun, popular in India, Pakistan, and Myanmar, is a confectionery made from…
- Bulgur
- Milk
- Soy
Correct Answer: Milk
Fact: Gulab Jamun is traditionally made from a concentrated milk product called khoya, but modern recipes may substitute dry or powdered milk.
Question 6: Speaking of milk-based sweets, what’s the name of the caramelized topping popular in Latin America?
- Dulce de leche
- Sorbet
- Cheesecake
Correct Answer: Dulce de leche
Fact: While the process of making dulce de leche can vary slightly across the region, it's usually made by heating milk and sugar slowly for hours until the thickened milk becomes spreadable. It's then used as a filler or topping for other desserts.
Question 7: What’s the surprise ingredient in the traditional Turkish dessert tavuk gogsu?
- Molasses
- Saffron
- Chicken
Correct Answer: Chicken
Fact: This beloved Turkish delicacy, once served to Ottoman sultans, is a milk pudding made from shredded chicken breast, milk, sugar, rice, and flour.