Condiments in Dessert: Would You Try These Strangely Popular Recipes?

When you think condiments, maybe you think of the main course. A nice steak for lunch, or a hearty sandwich to top things off. But has it ever occurred to you that these beloved pantry staples can also make the perfect dessert? It’s true! These kitchen essentials can do more than just add flavor to savory dishes – they can also enhance textures and tastes in desserts.

Mayonnaise Chocolate Cupcakes

Yes, you read that right. Adding mayonnaise to cake mix – particularly chocolate cake mix – is an easy hack to ensure your instant cakes stay moist and chewy.

The problem with boxed mixes is that, while delicious, they also don’t give home bakers much room to experiment. As such, the finished product could end up dry or coarse, but the additional fat from well-known mayonnaise brands – such as Lady’s Choice – helps to ensure that each bite is as delicious as the next. You’ll hardly be able to taste that there’s even mayonnaise in the recipe. Once your desserts are out of the oven, they’ll taste just like homemade cake!

Ketchup Cake

This Canadian recipe might sound strange, but it’s actually really popular! Developed to commemorate Heinz’s 100th anniversary in Canada, this recipe has since morphed into something of an inside joke.

Of course, its whimsical nature doesn’t take away from the fact that it has a legitimate fan base. People who’ve tried it say that the cake is reminiscent of red velvet cake, but with hints of spice thanks to cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and of course – ketchup!

Soy Sauce or Miso Brownies

Desserts are beloved for their sweet, comforting taste; yet, the best bakers know that adding a complementary flavor profile – such as saltiness – can take things to a whole new level. Miso paste, which is commonly enjoyed in soup, has become increasingly popular in baking, with some people turning to shiro miso to add depth to recipes such as brownies or cakes.

Another salty alternative is soy sauce. This condiment is particularly flattering in chocolate desserts as soy sauce can amplify cocoa flavors and add a touch of umami. A quick Google search for recipes that call for either soy sauce or miso in brownies will bring a wealth of results, all of which are sure to impress dinner guests.

Olive Oil Caramel

You may have heard about how Dua Lipa loves putting olive oil on her vanilla ice cream. This recipe takes it one step further, utilizing olive oil to create a delicious caramel sauce

The online recipe calls for only three ingredients: equal parts olive oil and maple syrup, plus a pinch of salt. Those online recommend extra virgin olive oil if you enjoy the aroma of olives; otherwise, choose a variant with a less intense aroma.

All you have to do is whisk everything together for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce emulsifies and thickens into a texture akin to honey. Then, drizzle and enjoy atop sundaes, in coffee, or on tarts and cakes. Yum!