The truth is, Colombia has evolved into a prominent spice-merchant country and is now known for its contributions to the pastry world. Rich and creamy, yet fanciful and sophisticated, Colombian pastries offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more. Try these well-known Colombian pastries that showcase the country’s culinary prowess.
Colombian Pastries: Mecatos Bakery & Café Lake Underhill
1. Cuñapes
The dough is made by combining cassava flour, cheese (such as queso fresco), eggs, and butter. The mixture is then shaped into small balls and baked until they become golden and develop a chewy texture. Cuñapes are a popular snack or appetizer in Colombia, loved for their cheesy goodness and satisfying chewiness.
Colombian Bakery: Mecatos Bakery & Café 32822
2. Bocadillo
Another traditional treat, Bocadillo is a pastry made from guava paste and sugar. It is a sweet, sticky treat that is enjoyed throughout the country. The guava paste is cooked until it thickens and develops a rich, concentrated flavor. It is then molded into small rectangular shapes and wrapped in a thin layer of Arequipa (Colombian caramel). You can take it on its own as a snack or use it as a filling in other pastries and desserts.
Colombian Desserts: Bakery & Café Downtown Orlando
3. Roscón
It resembles a donut or bagel. It is typically made from wheat flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and yeast. The dough is shaped into a ring and then fried until golden and crispy. Roscón can be enjoyed plain or filled with different sweet fillings such as dulce de leche (caramel), chocolate, or fruit preserves. It is often dusted with powdered sugar before serving and is a popular breakfast choice or afternoon snack.
4. Enyucado
Enyucado is a popular pastry made from yuca (cassava) root. The yuca is grated and mixed with cheese, sugar, flour, butter, and coconut milk to create a dense and moist batter. The mixture is then baked until it forms a golden crust on the outside while remaining soft and slightly gooey on the inside. You can add other ingredients if you like, such as spices and chocolate.
5. Solteritas
They are thin and crispy Colombian pastries that are similar to wafers. The dough for Solteritas is made from wheat flour, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. It is rolled out very thin, cut into small strips or shapes, and then deep-fried until golden and crispy. Solteritas have a delicate texture and a slightly sweet taste. They are served sprinkled with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey. Solteritas are a popular treat during holidays and celebrations in Colombia.
6. Merengón
Merengón is a heavenly Colombian pastry that combines the delicate crispness of meringue with the lusciousness of whipped cream and an array of fresh fruits. The meringue, made by skillfully whipping egg whites and sugar to perfection, achieves a delightful balance of lightness and sweetness. Generously piled high with billowy clouds of whipped cream, Merengón becomes a canvas for an explosion of colors and flavors as vibrant fruits like strawberries, kiwis, and bananas are artfully arranged on top.
7. Obleas de coco
Obleas de coco are thin, round wafers made from coconut, sugar, and flour. They are usually sandwiched with arequipe (a type of dulce de leche) or sweet fillings like jam, chocolate, or fruits. The main ingredients used include coconut, sugar, flour, and sometimes a pinch of salt. Additional ingredients may vary depending on the specific recipe or filling chosen. They have a delicate and crispy texture due to their thin wafer-like form
8. Pandebono
These golden, round bread rolls are made from a combination of corn flour, cheese (such as queso fresco or mozzarella), eggs, and butter. The dough is mixed until it reaches a soft, pliable consistency and is then formed into small balls and baked until they develop a slightly crispy exterior. Pandebono is enjoyed both as a snack and as a breakfast treat, often paired with a cup of Colombian coffee.
9. Almojábana
It is similar to pandebono but has a slightly different texture and flavor profile. Almojábanas are made from a mixture of corn flour, cheese, eggs, and butter, but they also include a touch of baking powder, which gives them a slightly fluffy and airy texture. These golden pastries are typically enjoyed warm and are often served alongside a cup of hot chocolate or coffee.
10. Torta Negra
This is a traditional Colombian pastry, often referred to as “Black Cake.” It is a dense and moist cake made with ingredients like dried fruits, nuts, spices, and rum or wine. The cake batter is rich and dark, owing to the use of molasses or brown sugar. It is typically enjoyed during special occasions and holidays, such as Christmas and weddings.
Whether you have a sweet tooth or prefer savory delights, the Colombian bakery has something to satisfy every craving. So, make sure to indulge in these delightful pastries and experience the culinary prowess of Colombia.
