Colombian cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, rich textures, and warm hospitality. And what’s a gathering without a sweet treat to share? Colombia has a treasure trove of traditional desserts that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From creamy flans to decadent cakes, and from crispy cookies to chewy pastries, the country’s dessert scene is a true reflection of its cultural diversity.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 authentic Colombian dessert recipes that will transport your taste buds to the heart of South America. From classic Tres Leches Cake to creamy Flan de Leche, and from crispy Bunuelos to rich Manjar Blanco, each recipe is a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Tres Leches Cake
This classic Latin American dessert is a crowd-pleaser, with its tender sponge cake soaked in three types of milk (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream). The result is a moist and creamy treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup evaporated milk
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and whisk until combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and poke holes all over the top. Pour evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream evenly over the cake.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Flan de Leche
A classic Spanish dessert, Flan de Leche is a creamy, caramel-topped custard that’s sure to delight. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this decadent treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
3. Add egg yolks one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small cups.
5. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Serve chilled, topped with caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Arroz con Leche
This classic Latin American dessert is a comforting blend of rice, milk, and sweet spices. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be enjoying this creamy treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Raisins or chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and creamy.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with raisins or chopped pecans if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Bunuelos
Sweet Fried Dough Bites: Bunuelos Recipe
Bunuelos are sweet fried dough bites that are a popular treat in many Latin American countries. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the sugar and mix until well combined.
3. Add in the warm water and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
6. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
7. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil.
8. Fry the bunuelos for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and puffed up.
9. Remove the bunuelos from the oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Natilla
This creamy Colombian dessert is a staple at family gatherings and celebrations. Natilla is a rich and smooth custard-like pudding flavored with vanilla and caramelized sugar, making it a must-try for anyone who loves sweet treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly and forms a custard-like consistency.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Strain the natilla into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Brevas con Arequipe
Brevas con Arequipe, a classic Venezuelan dessert, combines crispy plantain chips with a rich arequipe (caramel) sauce. This sweet treat is perfect for satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe plantains
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the plantains into thin rounds and fry in hot oil until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract.
6. Arrange plantain chips on a serving plate and drizzle with arequipe sauce. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Postre de Natas
This traditional Portuguese dessert consists of crispy puff pastry shells filled with a creamy custard filling, perfect for any occasion. With this recipe, you can recreate the sweet and indulgent treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry and cut into squares.
2. In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, flour, and salt until smooth.
3. Add heavy cream and whisk until combined.
4. Spoon a small amount of custard mixture onto each pastry square, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Fold the pastry over the filling to form triangles or squares, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Manjar Blanco
Manjar Blanco is a rich and creamy dessert popular in the Caribbean, made with sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and flavorings. This recipe yields a silky-smooth custard perfect for topping cakes, pastries, or serving as a standalone treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and ground cinnamon.
4. Strain custard into a clean bowl to remove any lumps or curdled egg.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to chill and set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serves: 6-8 servings
Obleas con Arequipe
A classic dessert from Venezuela, Obleas con Arequipe is a simple yet delightful treat that combines crispy wafers with rich caramel-like dulce de leche. This sweet and indulgent combination is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 oblas (Venezuelan wafers)
– 1 cup arequipe (dulce de leche)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Arrange the oblas on a serving plate or individual plates.
2. Drizzle the arequipe over the oblas, allowing it to drizzle and pool slightly between each wafer.
3. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required, as this dessert is ready in minutes.
Cholado
Cholados are a popular Colombian dessert that combines sweet and tangy flavors with a refreshing twist. This recipe brings together the classic components of a cholado, featuring shaved ice, fruit, and creamy milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shaved ice
– 1/2 cup mixed fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 10-12 chunks of white guava or pineapple
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shaved ice and mixed fruit.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and lime juice until smooth.
3. Pour the creamy mixture over the shaved ice and fruit, and toss to coat evenly.
4. Add the chunks of white guava or pineapple on top of the cholado.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Merengón
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional meringue, Merengón is a classic Peruvian dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday treats. This recipe yields a deliciously crispy exterior and chewy interior, infused with the sweetness of caramelized sugar.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in melted butter and whipped heavy cream.
4. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and spread into desired shape.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until crispy exterior forms.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Pastel de Gloria
This rich and creamy dessert is a staple of Cuban cuisine, consisting of a velvety custard filling inside a flaky pastry crust. With its smooth texture and caramelized sugar topping, Pastel de Gloria is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, sugar, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Panela Cheese Dessert
Panela cheese dessert is a sweet and creamy treat that’s perfect for warm weather. This recipe combines the richness of panela with the tanginess of cheese, creating a unique and refreshing dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup panela (or brown sugar)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces queso fresco or ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the panela and 1/4 cup water. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the syrup thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream, queso fresco, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with whipped cream or chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Rosquillas
Rosquillas are sweet, crispy fried dough balls that are a staple at festivals and celebrations in Spain. This recipe yields a deliciously addictive snack that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add in the warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Roll out the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Fry the rosquillas for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes rising time)
Leche Asada
Leche Asada is a popular Mexican dessert that consists of toasted bread topped with caramelized milk, cinnamon sugar crumble, and a sprinkle of sea salt. This sweet treat is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon unsalted butter, melted
– 4 slices white bread (preferably baguette)
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
– Sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Meanwhile, toast the bread slices until lightly browned.
4. Spread a layer of caramelized milk on each toasted slice.
5. Sprinkle the melted butter, confectioner’s sugar, and sea salt over the milk.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Guava and Cheese Pastries
These flaky pastry pockets are filled with the sweetness of guava and the creaminess of cheese, making them a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup guava jam or preserves
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into rectangles approximately 3×4 inches each.
3. Spread a small amount of guava jam onto one half of each rectangle, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the guava jam.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry rectangle over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape. Press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and cut a small slit in the top of each pastry to allow steam to escape.
7. Place pastries on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cocadas
Cocadas are a classic Latin American dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. These chewy, sweet treats are made with shredded coconut, condensed milk, and a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Drop the mixture by spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cocada.
4. Drizzle the melted butter over the cocadas.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pandebono
This traditional Colombian bread is a staple at many family gatherings and celebrations. With its crispy exterior and cheesy, gooey interior, it’s no wonder Pandebono is a beloved treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated queso fresco or mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 3 tablespoons warm water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, cheese, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add the oil and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Gradually add the warm water and knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide into 6-8 equal pieces and shape each into a ball.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each Pandebono.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the sweet side of Colombia with these 18 delicious dessert recipes! From classic treats like Tres Leches Cake and Flan de Leche, to traditional sweets like Arroz con Leche and Bunuelos, this collection has something for everyone. Try your hand at making Natilla, a creamy custard, or indulge in Brevas con Arequipe, crispy fried dough pastries drizzled with caramel sauce. With a range of options from simple to elaborate, you’ll find the perfect dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth and transport your taste buds to Colombia.
