Haitian Cremas
Sweet, creamy, and full of spiced Caribbean warmth, Haitian Cremas (or Kremas) is a festive drink you have to experience. Made with rum, coconut, warm spices, and a mix of milks, it’s a beloved holiday drink that’s rich, velvety, and perfect for sipping slow with friends and family.
Whether you’re celebrating Christmas or just want something creamy with a Caribbean kick, this recipe brings the cozy vibes and cultural pride in every pour.
What is Haitian cremas
Cremas, also known as Kremas, Cremasse, or Haitian eggnog, is a sweet and creamy rum-based drink traditionally served during the holiday season in Haiti. It’s similar to other Caribbean creamy drinks like Ponche de Crème from Trinidad and Coquito from Puerto Rico, but it has its own unique blend of ingredients and cultural traditions.
What makes cremas special is its balance of creamy texture, warm spice, and that signature Haitian flair—often made with Rhum Barbancourt, coconut milk, and lime zest. It’s more than just a drink. It’s part of the celebration.
How to make Haitian cremas
Ingredients you will need
While some methods vary across households, most traditional versions use these core ingredients.
Milk & Cream Base:
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Evaporated milk
- Cream of coconut (Note: This is not the same as coconut cream! See FAQ below for a DIY sub.)
Spices & Flavor:
- Cinnamon sticks (for the syrup)
- Ground cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Lime zest
- Vanilla extract
Alcohol:
- Dark rum Rhum Barbancourt is the traditional Haitian rum, but you can use another dark rum or even vodka depending on your taste.
Sweetener:
- Granulated sugar
- Water (These make a simple syrup to blend everything smoothly.)
Instructions
This is a labor of love—but honestly, it’s mostly mix and stir. Here’s how to bring this creamy magic together:
- Step 1: Make the simple syrup
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, water, and cinnamon sticks. Stir until the sugar dissolves, but don’t let it brown. Once the syrup forms, remove from heat and let it cool completely. - Step 2: Add the alcohol
Once the syrup is cooled, carefully whisk in the rum. - Step 3: Mix in the milks
Slowly pour in the condensed milk, evaporated milk, and cream of coconut—whisking constantly to keep the mix smooth. - Step 4: Add flavor
Stir in the nutmeg, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and lime zest. Mix until everything is well combined. - Step 5: Rest and strain
Let the mixture sit for a few hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to deepen. Then strain to remove any spice pieces or zest for a silky finish.
To serve:
Pour over ice or enjoy at room temperature. And don’t forget a sprinkle of nutmeg on top!
Storage Tips
To keep your cremas tasting amazing:
- Refrigerate: Store in glass bottles or mason jars with a tight seal.
- Shelf life: Lasts 9–12 months in the fridge. Shake before serving.
- Separation is normal: Just give it a good shake to recombine.
- Carbonation warning: If you notice bubbles or fizzing, discard it. That’s fermentation, and cremas is not trying to be champagne.
How to serve
Traditionally, cremas is served in glass bottles and poured over ice in small glasses. You can also sip it room temp if you prefer. It’s often gifted during Christmas and shared at family gatherings, birthdays, and Haitian Independence Day.
Bonus points if you bring it out in a festive bottle at your next lime. ✨
FAQs
Rhum Barbancourt is the traditional Haitian choice. But any quality dark rum will work. For a lighter version, white rum or even vodka can be subbed.
Nope, cremas is traditionally egg-free! That’s part of what sets it apart from other creamy Caribbean drinks
Yes. Sub in plant-based condensed milk (like coconut or almond-based) and use coconut cream in place of dairy. It still comes out rich and delicious.
If stored in the fridge and sealed, it lasts 9 to 12 months. Some folks say up to a year—but always check for spoilage.
You can! Simmer full-fat coconut milk with ½ cup sugar until thickened. Add 1 tbsp coconut milk powder for a richer flavor if you like.
Final Sip
Cremas is more than just a creamy cocktail—it’s a piece of Haitian tradition. Whether you’re sipping it for the first time or keeping the holiday tradition alive, this drink brings warmth, love, and a little rum-laced joy to any gathering.
If you loved this cremas recipe, leave a star rating in the recipe card below. And be sure to check out these other Caribbean holiday favorites:
Recipe
Haitian Cremas
Ingredients
Method
- Add sugar and water to a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add cinnamon sticks and stir occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves—do not let it brown.
- Once a simple syrup forms, remove from heat and carefully pour into a large glass bowl to cool.
- When cooled, whisk in the rum.
- Slowly whisk in the condensed milk, evaporated milk, and cream of coconut.
- Add the nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and lime zest.
- Let the mixture rest for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to blend.
- Strain before bottling.
- Serve over ice or at room temperature.
Notes
- Store in airtight containers (reuse the rum bottle or mason jars).
- Keep refrigerated.
