Is Watalappam a popular Sri Lankan Muslim dessert?

Yes, Watalappam is probably the most famous and beloved dessert of the Sri Lankan Malay and Moor (Muslim) communities. It is a rich, steamed custard made mainly with thick coconut milk, dark kithul jaggery, eggs, and warm spices like cardamom and nutmeg.

Even though its roots go back to Indonesian and Malaysian immigrants who settled in Sri Lanka centuries ago, Watalappam has become a real part of the national cuisine. Traditionally, it is prepared in massive amounts for Eid al-Fitr, that is, to mark the end of Ramadan, but now you can find it most of the time throughout the year. And when you use pure kithul jaggery, it gives that distinct deep caramel taste.