15 Authentic Cuban Breakfast Recipes to Start Your Day

Cuban breakfasts are vibrant, flavorful, and deeply rooted in tradition.

From sweet pastries to savory dishes, these breakfasts reflect the rich culture and culinary heritage of Cuba.

Exploring Cuban breakfast recipes offers a delightful way to start the day with bold flavors and hearty ingredients.

These 15 Cuban breakfast recipes include classic dishes like tostones, Cuban coffee, and huevos a la Cubana.

They are perfect for recreating an authentic Cuban morning experience at home.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weekday breakfast or a leisurely weekend brunch, these recipes provide delicious inspiration.

Learning these recipes brings a taste of Cuba into your kitchen, celebrating both tradition and flavor.

15 Authentic Cuban Breakfast Recipes to Start Your Day

Cuban breakfasts are an unforgettable way to start the day with flavor and culture.

These 15 Cuban breakfast recipes provide a mix of sweet, savory, and hearty dishes.

From classic Cuban sandwiches and egg dishes to pastries and coffee, they cover every breakfast craving.

They are easy to prepare at home and perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Bringing Cuban breakfast into your routine adds excitement, culture, and incredible flavor to your mornings.

Cuban-Style Scrambled Eggs with Chorizo

These Cuban-style scrambled eggs with chorizo are rich, savory, and packed with bold flavors.

Spicy chorizo is sautéed and mixed with fluffy scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.

The dish is perfect for a protein-packed morning meal and pairs wonderfully with warm Cuban bread.

A touch of fresh parsley adds color and freshness to the plate.

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup diced Cuban chorizo
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Cuban bread, for serving

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add diced chorizo and sauté until browned and fragrant.
• Beat eggs in a bowl with salt and pepper.
• Pour eggs over the chorizo and gently scramble until cooked to your preference.
• Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
• Serve immediately with warm Cuban bread.

These scrambled eggs with chorizo are flavorful, filling, and authentically Cuban.

They combine protein and spice for a hearty start to the day.

They’re easy to prepare, visually appealing, and perfect for breakfast gatherings.

Tostones with Garlic Sauce

Tostones are crispy, golden-fried plantain slices that are a staple in Cuban breakfasts.

They are twice-fried for maximum crunch and served with a tangy garlic dipping sauce.

This recipe provides a perfect balance of crispiness and savory flavor.

Tostones are an ideal side dish or snack for any Cuban-style morning meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 green plantains, peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

• Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
• Fry plantain slices for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden.
• Remove and flatten each slice with a plantain press or spatula.
• Fry flattened slices again for 2–3 minutes until crispy.
• Mix garlic, mayonnaise, lime juice, and salt to create the dipping sauce.
• Serve tostones hot with the garlic sauce on the side.

These tostones are crispy, flavorful, and perfectly paired with garlic sauce.

They are a classic Cuban breakfast addition loved by all ages.

They’re easy to make and ideal for sharing with family or guests.

Cuban Coffee (Café Cubano)

Cuban coffee is a strong, sweet espresso that wakes up the senses and energizes the morning.

It is known for its bold flavor and signature foamy sweet layer called “espuma.”

This recipe allows you to create an authentic Cuban coffee experience at home.

Perfect with breakfast pastries or savory dishes, it adds a touch of Cuban culture to your morning.

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons finely ground dark roast coffee
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Espresso machine or stovetop espresso maker

Instructions:

• Brew the coffee using your espresso maker according to package instructions.
• In a small cup, mix sugar with 1–2 tablespoons of the hot espresso to form espuma.
• Pour remaining espresso over the sweetened foam.
• Stir gently and serve immediately.
• Enjoy hot alongside your favorite Cuban breakfast dishes.

This Cuban coffee is strong, sweet, and full-bodied.

It adds a traditional and energizing element to any breakfast.

It’s quick to make and essential for an authentic Cuban morning experience.

Cuban-Style Breakfast Sandwich (Medianoche)

The Cuban-style breakfast sandwich, or medianoche, is warm, hearty, and satisfying.

It features egg, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles on soft Cuban bread or a sweet roll.

This sandwich is perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or leisurely morning meal.

The combination of melty cheese, savory ham, and soft bread creates a comforting and flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 Cuban or sweet roll
• 2 large eggs
• 2 slices ham
• 2 slices Swiss cheese
• 2 pickle slices
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

• Slice the roll in half and lightly butter the inside.
• Fry eggs in a skillet to your preferred doneness.
• Layer ham, cheese, pickles, and cooked eggs on the roll.
• Press together and heat in a skillet or sandwich press until cheese melts.
• Serve warm and enjoy immediately.

This medianoche sandwich is savory, cheesy, and indulgent.

It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch with a Cuban twist.

It’s easy to assemble and loved by both kids and adults.

Cuban Sweet Pastry (Pastelitos de Guayaba)

Pastelitos de guayaba are flaky, sweet pastries filled with guava paste and cream cheese.

They are a popular breakfast treat in Cuba and pair perfectly with Cuban coffee.

The combination of buttery pastry and sweet-tangy filling creates a delightful morning indulgence.

These pastelitos are simple to make with store-bought puff pastry and minimal ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1/4 cup guava paste, chopped
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Roll out puff pastry and cut into squares.
• Place a small piece of guava paste and cream cheese in the center of each square.
• Fold pastry over and seal edges with a fork.
• Brush tops with beaten egg and bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
• Serve warm with coffee or milk.

These pastelitos de guayaba are sweet, flaky, and irresistible.

They make a perfect Cuban breakfast pastry or snack.

They’re easy to prepare, visually appealing, and loved by all ages

Cuban-Style Huevos a la Cubana

Huevos a la Cubana is a hearty, flavorful breakfast dish that combines eggs, rice, and tomato sauce.

The combination of fluffy scrambled eggs, savory tomato sauce, and white rice creates a comforting morning meal.

It’s a traditional Cuban breakfast favorite that is filling and easy to prepare.

The dish can be garnished with fresh parsley or hot sauce for extra flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add tomato sauce and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
• Scramble eggs separately and season with salt and pepper.
• Serve eggs over a bed of cooked rice and pour tomato sauce on top.
• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Huevos a la Cubana is hearty, savory, and satisfying.

It provides a balanced combination of protein, carbs, and flavor.

It’s perfect for a filling Cuban-style breakfast at home.

Cuban Coffee Flan

Cuban coffee flan is a creamy, sweet, and coffee-infused dessert-style breakfast treat.

The rich flan is flavored with strong Cuban coffee and caramelized sugar, offering a luxurious morning indulgence.

It’s ideal for special occasions or weekend breakfasts when you want something unique.

Flan pairs beautifully with Cuban coffee or fresh fruit for a complete breakfast experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sugar (for caramel)
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 can evaporated milk
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons strong brewed Cuban coffee
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Melt sugar in a saucepan to make caramel and pour into a baking dish.
• In a bowl, whisk together condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, coffee, and vanilla.
• Pour the mixture over the caramel in the baking dish.
• Bake in a water bath for 50–60 minutes until set.
• Cool, refrigerate, and serve chilled.

Cuban coffee flan is creamy, sweet, and delightfully aromatic.

It’s a unique breakfast option with a rich Cuban flavor.

It’s perfect for a special morning treat or brunch gathering.

Cuban Sweet Corn Pancakes (Torticas de Maíz)

Torticas de maíz are soft, slightly sweet Cuban corn pancakes perfect for breakfast.

Made from fresh corn, eggs, and a touch of sugar, they are flavorful and comforting.

They can be served with butter, honey, or cheese for added richness.

These pancakes are simple to prepare and ideal for a Cuban-inspired morning meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon butter, for cooking
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

• Blend corn, flour, eggs, milk, sugar, and salt until smooth.
• Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
• Pour batter to form small pancakes and cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
• Remove and keep warm while cooking remaining pancakes.
• Serve with honey, butter, or cheese.

These sweet corn pancakes are soft, slightly sweet, and filling.

They provide a traditional Cuban flavor and texture.

They’re easy to prepare and perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Cuban Toasted Cuban Bread with Butter

Cuban toasted bread with butter is a simple yet iconic Cuban breakfast item.

The crusty, soft bread is toasted until golden and spread with melted butter.

It’s commonly paired with Cuban coffee or fresh fruit for a quick and satisfying meal.

The crispy exterior and soft interior create a delightful texture contrast.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf Cuban bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened

Instructions:

• Slice Cuban bread into 1-inch thick pieces.
• Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
• Spread butter on both sides of the bread slices.
• Toast bread for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
• Serve immediately with coffee or fresh fruit.

This toasted Cuban bread is buttery, crispy, and comforting.

It’s a quick and classic Cuban breakfast option.

It pairs perfectly with coffee or other traditional breakfast dishes.

Cuban-Style Cheese and Ham Empanadas

Cuban-style empanadas are flaky pastries filled with ham and cheese, perfect for breakfast.

The golden crust encloses a savory filling, creating a portable and delicious meal.

These empanadas are ideal for a weekend breakfast or brunch with family.

They are simple to make with store-bought pastry and provide a traditional Cuban flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1/2 cup diced ham
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cut puff pastry into squares.
• Place ham and cheese in the center of each square.
• Fold pastry over and seal edges with a fork.
• Brush tops with beaten egg and bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
• Serve warm.

These Cuban-style empanadas are flaky, cheesy, and savory.

They make a portable, delicious breakfast or brunch option.

They’re easy to prepare and loved by both kids and adults.

Cuban-Style Sweet Potato Hash

This Cuban-style sweet potato hash is hearty, colorful, and packed with flavor.

Diced sweet potatoes are sautéed with onions, bell peppers, and a hint of garlic for a savory breakfast.

It can be served alongside eggs or as a standalone morning meal.

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds freshness and brightens the dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic; sauté until softened.
• Add sweet potatoes and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

This sweet potato hash is colorful, hearty, and full of Cuban-inspired flavors.

It’s perfect for a nutritious and satisfying breakfast.

It pairs well with eggs, coffee, or fresh fruit for a complete morning meal.

Cuban Cheese and Guava Croissants

These croissants are flaky, sweet, and uniquely Cuban.

The combination of buttery pastry, sweet guava, and creamy cheese makes them irresistible for breakfast.

They are perfect alongside Cuban coffee or as a quick grab-and-go meal.

Making them from store-bought puff pastry keeps the recipe simple and approachable.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1/4 cup guava paste, cut into strips
• 1/4 cup cream cheese
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Roll out puff pastry and cut into triangles.
• Place a strip of guava paste and a small dollop of cream cheese on each triangle.
• Roll pastry from base to tip and place on a baking sheet.
• Brush tops with beaten egg and bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
• Serve warm.

These croissants are sweet, flaky, and perfectly Cuban.

They make an elegant and delicious breakfast treat.

They’re simple to prepare and loved by kids and adults alike.

Cuban-Style Breakfast Burrito

This Cuban-style breakfast burrito is savory, filling, and packed with flavor.

Scrambled eggs, ham, cheese, and sautéed onions are wrapped in a soft tortilla for a portable breakfast.

It’s perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.

The combination of soft tortilla, melty cheese, and flavorful fillings creates a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 slices ham, diced
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup diced onions
• 1 large flour tortilla
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

• Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
• Sauté diced onions until translucent.
• Beat eggs with milk and pour over onions, scrambling until cooked.
• Add diced ham and cheese to the eggs, mixing gently.
• Place egg mixture in the center of the tortilla and roll into a burrito.
• Serve warm.

This Cuban-style breakfast burrito is hearty, cheesy, and flavorful.

It’s portable, satisfying, and perfect for a filling morning meal.

It combines traditional Cuban flavors with a convenient, modern twist.

Cuban Sweet Plantain Pancakes

These sweet plantain pancakes are soft, naturally sweet, and full of Cuban flavor.

Ripe plantains are mashed and combined with eggs, flour, and a touch of sugar for a breakfast treat.

They’re ideal served with butter, honey, or syrup for added richness.

The natural sweetness of plantains gives the pancakes a unique flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe plantains, peeled and mashed
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Butter or syrup for serving

Instructions:

• In a bowl, combine mashed plantains, eggs, flour, sugar, and salt until smooth.
• Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease.
• Pour batter to form small pancakes and cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Remove and keep warm while cooking remaining pancakes.
• Serve with butter or syrup.

These plantain pancakes are sweet, soft, and full of Cuban flavor.

They make a fun and unique breakfast option.

They’re easy to prepare and perfect for a weekend brunch or special morning.

Cuban Ham and Cheese Omelet

This Cuban ham and cheese omelet is savory, cheesy, and satisfying.

Eggs are folded over diced ham and melted cheese for a traditional Cuban breakfast.

It’s quick to make and pairs wonderfully with Cuban bread or coffee.

The fluffy eggs and gooey cheese make this omelet irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup diced ham
• 1/4 cup shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
• Beat eggs with salt and pepper and pour into the skillet.
• Cook until eggs start to set, then sprinkle ham and cheese over half of the omelet.
• Fold the omelet and cook until cheese melts.
• Serve hot with Cuban bread or fresh fruit.

This Cuban ham and cheese omelet is savory, cheesy, and filling.

It’s perfect for a quick and satisfying breakfast.

It combines traditional Cuban flavors with simple, easy preparation.