Orlando is a melting pot of cultures, and the hidden gem is the delightful world of Colombian cuisine, which is so delicious. As much as Colombian coffee has garnered recognition all over the world, there is a unique dessert that is perhaps equally worthy of the spotlight—authentic Colombian pastries. These delicious treats are very traditional and to eat them is to be able to savor the unmistakable taste that is associated with Colombia’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. From indigenous roots to Spanish and African origins, Colombian pastries incorporate a wide range of ingredients and techniques that culminate in delicious products.
Surrounded by the nostalgia and longing for home, bakeries in the heart of Orlando ensure that everyone has a taste of these Colombian delights, or a new experience to discover. These Colombian pastries are sweet and savory confections perfect for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a dessert when served with coffee or hot chocolate. They make for a perfect breakfast companion, a tea-time snack, served as a side dish to accompany dinner or simply as a delicious dessert that brings a taste of home with every bite.
This article takes you on a journey through some of the top Colombian pastries found in Orlando; their cultural backgrounds, and how these simple snacks offer you a piece of Colombia’s glorious past in the present Orlando.
The History and Influence of Colombian Pastries
Colombian pastries, much like the country’s broader cuisine, are a fusion of diverse cultural influences. Indigenous communities contributed staples like corn and yucca, while Spanish colonizers introduced wheat and sugar. African slaves brought with them a rich tradition of fried foods and the use of tropical ingredients like plantains and coconuts. Over the centuries, these influences blended to create a unique pastry culture that is distinctly Colombian.
Pastries in Colombia are more than just food—they are part of daily rituals, celebrations, and moments shared with loved ones. Many traditional pastries are made with recipes that have been passed down through generations, and they reflect the regional flavors and ingredients that define Colombia’s varied geography.
1.Pandebono – The Cheese Bread of Colombia
Pandebono is one of the most iconic and beloved Colombian pastries. A round, golden cheese bread made from cassava starch, cheese, and eggs, pandebono is known for its light, airy texture and slightly tangy flavor. It’s typically eaten fresh from the oven, still warm and fragrant, making it a popular breakfast or snack option throughout the country.
The origins of pandebono are debated, but most agree that it hails from the Valle del Cauca region in southwestern Colombia. Today, it’s a staple in bakeries across the country, and it’s also enjoyed by Colombians abroad as a nostalgic reminder of home.
2.Buñuelos – A Fried Delight
Buñuelos are deep-fried cheese balls that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Made from a mixture of cornstarch and fresh cheese, they’re a savory treat often enjoyed during holidays like Christmas, but they’re available year-round in bakeries and cafes. The combination of their golden exterior and their fluffy, cheese-filled interior makes buñuelos an irresistible treat.
The tradition of buñuelos in Colombia dates back to Spanish colonization, when similar fried pastries were introduced by the Spanish. Over time, Colombians adapted the recipe to include local ingredients, making the buñuelo a symbol of the country’s ability to blend European influences with indigenous flavors.
3.Arequipe – Colombia’s Answer to Dulce de Leche
No discussion of Colombian pastries would be complete without mentioning arequipe. This rich, caramel-like spread made from milk and sugar is similar to dulce de leche but with its own distinctive flavor. Arequipe is a key ingredient in many Colombian desserts and pastries, adding a sweet, creamy element that complements everything from cakes to cookies.
One of the most popular ways to enjoy arequipe is in obleas, thin wafers filled with a generous spread of the caramel. Obleas are a street food favorite in Colombia, often topped with other sweet additions like jam or shredded coconut.
4.Almojábanas – Savory Cornmeal Buns
Almojábanas are another type of Colombian cheese bread, but unlike pandebono, they’re made with cornmeal and fresh cheese. These savory buns have a denser texture and a slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with Colombian hot chocolate or coffee. Almojábanas are a traditional breakfast item, particularly in the Andean regions of Colombia.
Their roots trace back to Spanish settlers, who brought with them the tradition of baking with wheat and cheese. However, the use of cornmeal gives almojábanas a distinctly Colombian twist, making them a beloved part of the country’s culinary identity.
5.Empanadas – Savory Pastries with a Corn Crust
While empanadas are found throughout Latin America, Colombian empanadas have their own unique characteristics. Made with cornmeal dough and filled with ingredients like shredded beef, chicken, or potatoes, Colombian empanadas are typically deep-fried until golden and crispy. They’re often served with a side of ají, a tangy, spicy sauce that balances the richness of the pastry.
Empanadas in Colombia are not just a snack—they’re a staple at family gatherings, street fairs, and celebrations. Each region of Colombia has its own take on the empanada, with different fillings and preparation methods that reflect local tastes and ingredients.
6.Torta Negra – Colombian Black Cake
Torta negra, or Colombian black cake, is a dense, rich fruitcake often served during special occasions like Christmas and weddings. Made with dried fruits soaked in rum or wine, spices, and molasses, torta negra is a celebration cake that brings together the flavors of Colombia’s Afro-Caribbean regions.
The cake’s origins can be traced back to European fruitcake recipes, but it has evolved into something uniquely Colombian. The use of tropical fruits and the infusion of rum or wine give torta negra its distinctive flavor, making it a festive dessert that’s beloved throughout the country.
Mecatos Bakery and Café: Bringing Authentic Colombian Pastries to Orlando
For those in Orlando craving a taste of authentic Colombian pastries, Mecatos Bakery and Café offers a delightful selection of traditional treats. Located in the heart of the city, the nearest Colombian restaurant, Mecatos brings the flavors of Colombia to life with a wide range of pastries made from authentic recipes.
At Mecatos Bakery and Cafe, you can enjoy freshly baked pandebono, almojábanas, buñuelos, and more. Their dedication to using high-quality ingredients and staying true to Colombian culinary traditions ensures that each pastry is a taste of home for Colombians living abroad and a delicious discovery for anyone new to the country’s rich pastry culture.
Whether you’re looking to indulge in a sweet arequipe-filled oblea or a savory cheese-stuffed buñuelo, Mecatos offers an authentic experience that transports you straight to the bakeries of Colombia. Visit Mecatos Bakery & Café Edgewood, FL, to savor the best of Colombian pastries right here in Orlando, and let each bite take you on a journey through the country’s rich culinary traditions.
Conclusion
Colombian pastries are more than just delicious—they’re a reflection of the country’s diverse cultural history and its deep connection to family traditions. From the cheesy goodness of pandebono to the crispy perfection of empanadas, each pastry tells a story of the ingredients, techniques, and influences that have shaped Colombia’s culinary identity.
For those looking to experience these authentic flavors without leaving Orlando, Mecatos Bakery and Café offers a genuine taste of Colombia’s pastry culture. Whether you’re enjoying a sweet treat with your morning coffee or indulging in a savory snack, Mecatos provides a welcoming space where you can savor the traditions of Colombia, one pastry at a time.
