Colombia’s culinary scene is renowned for its extensive and varied repertoire, featuring flavors influenced by indigenous, African, and Spanish heritage. The tropical climate provides ample fruits to craft delectable desserts – sure to please any sweet tooth! This article will highlight some of Colombia’s most beloved desserts that must be tried at Mecatos Bakery & Cafe when locals enjoy snacking on small sweet treats.
Tres Leches Cake
Tres Leches Cake, commonly called three-milk cake in Colombia and Latin America, is a beloved dessert made with three types of milk: evaporated, condensed, and heavy cream. A sponge cake soaks in this mixture to give it its moist and creamy texture. When served cold on summer days, it’s usually topped off with whipped cream for an added touch – the ideal dessert for hot days!
Bunuelos
Bunuelos are a traditional Colombian dessert often served at Christmas time. Made of yucca flour, cheese, and eggs, these small doughnut-like balls are deep-fried until golden brown and then coated in cinnamon sugar. Bunuelos have an irresistibly crispy exterior and a soft and chewy interior – they make great holiday treats when served hot chocolate!
Natilla
Natilla is a decadent, creamy dessert similar to a pudding made with milk, sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Served cold and garnished with cinnamon sprigs, Natilla becomes especially popular during Christmastime when served alongside bunuelos. With its luxurious texture and delightful taste, this treat makes the ideal dessert choice for those who appreciate creamy treats.
Obleas
Obleas are beloved Colombian street food sold by street vendors. Made of thin wafers made from flour and water, these treats can be filled with sweet fillings such as caramel, dulce de leche, or arequipe (a caramel-like spread made in Colombia). In addition to sweet fillings like caramel or dulce de leche, please may include shredded cheese or jam for an added crunch. Ideal for snacking on during the day!
Cicadas
Cocadas are a traditional Colombian dessert made with grated coconut and sugar. Once baked, the mixture becomes crisp on the outside and chewy inside. Cicadas can also be flavored with lime or chocolate for an added twist. Perfect for coconut lovers everywhere, Cocadas make for great snacks as well.
Arequipa
Arequipe is a Colombian caramel-like spread similar to dulce de leche. Made with condensed milk, sugar, and vanilla, Arequipa has an irresistibly creamy and smooth texture which can be used as a spread on bread or crackers or as a topping for cakes and ice cream.
Merengon
Merengon is a refreshing dessert made with meringue and fresh fruits like strawberries, mangoes, and kiwis. The meringue is baked until it turns crisp on the outside but soft inside before topping it with whipped cream and more fruits. Merengon makes for ideal summer entertaining, as its light yet flavorful composition pairs perfectly with warm weather.
Milhojas
Milhojas, which translates to “a thousand layers” in Spanish, is a pastry dessert composed of puff pastry layers, cream, and caramelized sugar. After baking until crisp and layered with cream cheese filling, Milhojas gets its distinctive crunch from caramelized sugar on top. Milhojas has become a beloved dessert in Colombia – often served during special events such as weddings or birthdays.
Pandebono
Pandebono is a traditional Colombian bread made with yucca flour, cheese, and cornmeal. The dough is mixed with cheese for an irresistibly savory flavor enjoyed as breakfast or snack or served alongside hot chocolate. Pandebono has an irresistibly crispy exterior and soft interior – making it both a delicious and satisfying treat!
In Conclusion, Colombian desserts celebrate the country’s diverse culture and abundance of tropical fruits. From creamy Natilla to crispy Obleas, there’s something for everyone in these sweet treats. Mecatos (April), a traditional time for snacking on small sweet bites, is the ideal time to indulge in these delectable treats. If you ever get the chance to visit Colombia during Mecatos season, be sure to sample these unique flavors for yourself!
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