Indulging in dessert after a satisfying meal is a common phenomenon. Why not take your sweet tooth on a thrilling adventure by exploring the vibrant world of Colombian desserts? If you’re seeking something extraordinary, Colombian treats will surely impress! For many Colombians, a dessert is an essential component of a well-rounded meal. The typical ingredients used to craft these sweet masterpieces include fruits, dairy products, and sugar.
This trifecta of flavors yields a medley of delectable cakes and creamy puddings that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. And when it comes to standout desserts, Colombian cuisine has plenty to offer. Prepare yourself for the likes of Natilla, Meregon, and Arequipe – three mouthwatering treats that will leave you craving more! So, if you’re ready to embark on a sweet escapade, let’s get started!
Bananos Calados
If you’re craving a classic Colombian dessert, consider indulging in Bananos Calados. This traditional treat, literally translated to ‘soaked bananas’, boasts a unique combination of melted butter, lime juice, sugar, and lime zest, all perfectly balanced with ripe bananas. To achieve the ideal texture and flavor, be sure to select bananas without spots, as those with blemishes tend to be overly ripe and may impart an unappealing sweetness or softness to the dish.
If you prefer, you can substitute lime juice with freshly squeezed orange juice and its zest for a slightly different twist. Once prepared, Bananos Calados is best served with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, a dollop of cold milk, or a tangy spoonful of yogurt.
Arroz Con Leche
In Colombia, the beloved dessert Arroz con Leche is a staple that’s both effortless to prepare and incredibly delicious. The process begins by combining cinnamon-infused water, rice, salt, milk, butter, and vanilla extract in a medium-sized pot over moderate heat. Allow the mixture to simmer for 15 minutes before reducing the heat to a gentle medium-low setting. Stir occasionally as you continue cooking for an hour and 15 minutes, or until the pudding reaches your desired level of thickness.
Once satisfied with the consistency, turn off the stove and let it cool. After refrigerating the dessert for at least an hour, you’re ready to serve it chilled, perhaps with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for added flair.
Natilla
Natilla, a renowned Colombian Christmas dessert, is shrouded in complexity when it comes to preparation. The process requires an array of ingredients, but don’t worry – you can now find pre-mixed Natilla blends in many supermarkets. These mixes boast an exceptional taste that’s truly irresistible! At its core, Natilla typically consists of panela and cornflour, often paired with rich coffee, coconut, or arequipe, before being finished off with a drizzle of fruity syrup.
Cholados Colombianos
Beat the heat this summer by indulging in a refreshing Cholados Colombianos! This sweet treat is not only a drink, but also a dessert and cocktail all in one. The unique blend of fresh fruits, Colombian blackberry syrup, condensed milk, passion fruit (also known as maracuya), and crushed ice creates a taste sensation like no other. To take it to the next level, garnish with a maraschino cherry and sprinkle some shredded coconut on top for added texture and flavor.
Torta De Tres Leches
Indulge in the sweet delight of Torta De Tres Leches, a Columbian dessert that requires just a few simple ingredients from your fridge. This ‘three milks cake’ is surprisingly easy to make and only needs three types of milk: table cream (heavy cream), condensed milk, and evaporated milk. Simply mix these together, then coat a regular sponge cake with the mixture and top it off with whipped cream or meringue. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
To elevate this dessert to new heights, try adding some fresh fruit on top, such as mango, cherry, figs, or strawberry.
Merengón (Colombian Strawberry Meringue)
Indulge in the sweetness of Colombia’s signature meringue, Merengón! This heavenly treat, crafted from powdered sugar and egg whites, will transport you to a world of delight from the very first bite. Typically, Merengón is adorned with alternating layers of sweetened whipped cream, finished with a burst of freshness courtesy of fruits or berries. And what’s more, it’s an absolute treat for kids – making it a perfect dessert for family gatherings!
Dulce De Leche Cortada
In a surprising twist, spoiled milk can be transformed into a delectable dessert. The process may seem unorthodox, but the end result is well worth the effort. Dulce de leche cortada boasts a unique flavor profile that combines the freshness of lime with the warmth of cinnamon, resulting in a taste experience that’s both tangy and sweet. Achieving this creamy consistency requires a significant amount of patience, as the milk must be carefully curdled until it reaches a fudgy texture.
For added depth and complexity, consider serving the dessert with crunchy crackers or crumbly white cheese.
Roscón
In Colombia, it’s impossible to walk into a bakery without being greeted by the iconic Roscon. This delectable treat is characterized by its circular shape, adorned with vibrant candies and crushed almonds that add a delightful textural element. But what truly sets Roscon apart is its sweetbread filling, which can be filled to the brim with rich cream or tangy guava paste. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory flavors, there’s a Roscon out there to satisfy your cravings.
And as you indulge in this tasty treat, it’s likely to evoke warm feelings and fond memories.
Milhojas
Transform the essence of Alpina Market’s renowned Milhoja into a show-stopping dessert by crafting these delicate layers of puff pastry. The cake’s heavenly quality stems from the creamy, arequipe, white chocolate, or icing fillings that add an extra layer of indulgence between each flaky, buttery layer. Despite its impressive presentation, this dessert is surprisingly easy to prepare and requires only basic ingredients, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Postre De Milo
The unexpected marriage between Milo powder and Colombian cuisine is a stroke of genius. This innovative dessert boasts layers of creamy condensed milk pudding, crunchy salty crackers, and a generous sprinkling of Milo powder on top. To elevate the richness of the pudding, use full-fat milk for an added indulgence. For optimal flavor and texture, serve immediately after chilling in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
Colombian Hot Chocolate With Cheese
The harmonious union of sweets, salt, chocolate, and cheese is a match made in heaven. This quintessential combination is particularly beloved by many Colombians, who swear by the indulgent delight of hot chocolate paired with cubes of melted cheese. To craft this delectable treat, begin by combining skim milk, a rich hot chocolate bar, warm cinnamon, aromatic cloves, and drizzles of honey in a saucepan.
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil on high heat, then reduce the temperature once it reaches a frothy consistency. Pour the steaming hot beverage into mugs and finish with a generous serving of cheese cubes, allowing the sweet aroma to envelop you as you savor each delightful sip.
Avena Colombiana
Beat the summer heat with a refreshing drink that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. One option is Avena Colombiana, a Colombian oatmeal drink that requires a bit of planning ahead, but is well worth the effort. Simply combine water, milk, salt, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl, then chill the mixture for at least three hours or overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld together smoothly and give you a refreshing drink to enjoy with your favorite pastries for breakfast.
Pandebono
Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, gooey cheese-filled puffy bread – it’s the perfect treat for breakfast or dinner. And the best part? You can have this delightful dessert in just 30 minutes! Pandebono, a gluten-free Colombian cheese bread, is made with tapioca flour, eggs, pre-cooked cornmeal, melted cheese, salt, and sugar. Simply combine all the ingredients in a food processor, shape into small balls, and bake until golden brown. That’s it!
With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious cheese bread that your family and friends will love.
Arequipe (Dulce De Leche)
In Latin America, Arequipe – also known as Dulce De Leche – is a beloved dessert that’s deeply rooted in the region’s culinary culture. The sweet treat is crafted from raw milk and panela, which lends it a distinctively robust flavor profile. When you take your first spoonful of arequipe, you’re treated to an indulgent experience that’s equal parts sinful and heartwarming. As the rich sweetness slowly dissolves in your mouth, you can’t help but savor every moment.
While making arequipe does require some time and effort, the end result is well worth the wait – a labor of love that yields a delectable reward.
Cascos De Guayaba
Guayaba, also known as guava, is a staple ingredient in many Colombian recipes, adding its unique flavor and texture to both sweet and savory dishes. This versatile fruit can be used in various forms, including as a paste or spread for wafers, pastries, and sauces, or as a tart jelly that rivals traditional jam. Its soft, creamy consistency makes it a delight to consume.
To prepare guavas for use, ensure they are thoroughly peeled and rinsed to remove any impurities, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through.
Salpicon De Frutas
Imagine a refreshing treat that’s as vibrant as the tropical climate of Colombia. This sweetened fruit salad is an explosion of flavors, featuring a medley of fruits carefully selected to tantalize your taste buds. When you need a revitalizing pick-me-up in the morning, this fruity delight is the perfect companion – and with a splash of Colombian soda, it’s like a mini-vacation for your thirst!
To take it to the next level, simply top it off with a dollop of whipped cream or condensed milk, and indulge in a sweet escape from the ordinary.
Arroz Con Coco
When it comes to dessert options after a seafood meal, a sweet and indulgent treat can be the perfect way to cap off the evening. One such option is caramelized shredded coconut cooked with raisins – a flavor combination that’s both rich and satisfying. For a side dish that’s sure to impress your guests, consider Arroz Con Coco. This sweet and savory concoction is made with a blend of sugar, raisins, salt, water, coconut milk, and rice, resulting in a dish that’s equal parts familiar and exotic.
The sweetness of the caramelized coconut and raisins pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of seafood, making it an ideal choice for a dinner party or special occasion.
Cocadas
Cocadas is a sweet treat that can be easily found in most candy stores and sweet shops. This delicious dessert has a unique characteristic – it’s made from coconut-based ingredients, which can be mixed with different flavors and colors to create a variety of options. The primary components of Cocadas are freshly shredded coconut, sugar, and coconut water. To give your Cocadas an extra boost of flavor, don’t forget to add a pinch of cinnamon powder.
With these simple steps, you’ll have flavorful Cocadas that kids of all ages will love.
Limonada De Coco
Indulge in the sweet and tangy taste of Limonada De Coco, a refreshing drink that will quench your thirst on a hot day. To prepare this treat, simply combine crushed ice with sugar, coconut cream, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Blend all the ingredients together until smooth, then chill before serving. For an added twist, feel free to add a splash of rum for a sophisticated touch.
Enyucado
Colombia’s Enyucado is a rich and decadent dessert that has gained popularity worldwide. This sweet treat is made by combining the natural goodness of yuca, coconut, and grated cheese. The mixture is then enhanced with sugar, coconut milk, and melted butter to create a creamy texture. To give it an extra boost of flavor, star anise is added, allowing the consumer to control the amount that suits their taste buds.
Once prepared, the Enyucado is baked for 50 minutes, resulting in a unique texture that is both crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. This delightful dessert has captured the hearts of many, offering a sweet escape from the ordinary.
Colombian Churros
While many might associate the sweet, fried delight known as a churro with its Spanish heritage, Colombia also boasts its own unique take on this tasty treat. Unlike some of their European counterparts, Colombian churros don’t stray far from the classic donut formula, offering a familiar taste and texture that’s hard to resist. These small, circular wonders are typically served dusted with a generous helping of sugar, providing a satisfying sweet hit.
At its core, the traditional Colombian churro recipe is simplicity itself: just flour, water, and salt come together to form the dough, making it an accessible treat for anyone looking to get their hands dirty. And the best part? You can easily customize your churros by shaping them to your heart’s content – a fun twist that adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the snacking experience. To take things to the next level, why not add some extra flavor flair in the form of cinnamon or sugar?
The result is a sweet and satisfying treat that’s sure to hit the spot.
Colombian Buñuelos
Indulge in the delightful Colombian Buñuelos, a mouthwatering fusion of crispy crust and soft crumb wrapped around a generous helping of white cheese. This sweet treat is an ideal way to start your day, especially when paired with a rich cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
Arepas
Craving a breakfast or afternoon snack that’s both familiar and exotic? Look no further than the Arepas, a beloved Colombian staple. This flat, round corn cake is made from cooked flour, salt, and dough, and its versatility knows no bounds. Top it with butter, cheese, avocado, jelly, scrambled eggs, or even spicy Colombian chorizo for a flavor combination that’s sure to satisfy. And the best part? Arepas are incredibly easy to make – simply fry, grill, or bake them to perfection.
Polvorosas
Treat the family to a sweet delight with a classic Colombian sugar cookie. This tender treat is made with a simple dough that’s rich in butter and minimal effort. The ingredients are straightforward: wheat flour, sugar, shortening, cinnamon, and powdered sugar. With just a few minutes of preparation, you can create an extra-special indulgence for your loved ones.
Alfajores
Indulge in the delightful experience of sinking your teeth into a tender, buttery, and crispy alfajore cookie, infused with the rich flavor of dulce de leche. The sweetness is perfectly balanced by the crunch of the powdered sugar topping, making it impossible to stop at just one bite. Share this sweet treat with loved ones and savor the joy of sharing a delightful afternoon snack together.
The bottom line
When planning a trip to Colombia, don’t miss out on the incredible array of sweet treats that await you. Not only will they be a delightful addition to your travel itinerary, but they’ll also provide inspiration for creating unique desserts back home. As you delve deeper into Colombian culture, you’ll uncover an abundance of ingredients and flavors to incorporate into your own dessert recipes.
We hope this list serves as a starting point for inventing new sweet creations that your friends and family will love. Have you tried making anything from the list? Which one is your favorite? Consider adding traditional treats like alfajores and pan de bono to your repertoire, offering a delicious taste of Colombia in every bite.
