Get ready to indulge in a sweet and delicious culinary journey through Chile! Known for its rich culture and traditions, Chile’s desserts are a fusion of Spanish, Italian, and indigenous influences. From creamy custards to flaky pastries, these sweet treats will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of the top 18 traditional Chilean dessert recipes that you need to try. From classic favorites like Leche Asada (Chilean Baked Custard) and Torta de Mil Hojas (Thousand-Layer Cake), to creative concoctions like Brazo de Reina (Chilean Swiss Roll with Dulce de Leche) and Suspiros (Chilean Meringue Cookies), there’s something for every sweet tooth. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of Chilean desserts!
Leche Asada (Chilean Baked Custard)
A classic Chilean dessert, Leche Asada is a creamy, caramelized custard that’s sure to delight. This recipe is an adaptation of the traditional version, with a few tweaks for modern bakers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
3. Remove from heat and stir in egg yolks, salt, and vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.
4. Pour the mixture into 6-8 ramekins or small cups. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are caramelized and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Torta de Mil Hojas (Thousand-Layer Cake)
This traditional Spanish cake is a showstopper, with its layers of flaky puff pastry and creamy custard. It’s a labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, flour, and salt. Sprinkle evenly over the pastry.
3. Roll up the pastry tightly, starting from one of the long sides. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg yolks, and melted butter. Spoon a small amount onto each pastry piece.
5. Fold each piece in half to enclose the filling. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Alfajores (Dulce de Leche Sandwich Cookies)
These classic South American cookies are a staple of many cultures, and for good reason – the combination of crispy cookies sandwiched with rich dulce de leche is irresistible. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these addictive treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before sandwiching with dulce de leche and dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Empolvados (Chilean Powdered Sugar Cookies)
These delicate cookies are a classic Chilean treat, perfect for dunking in tea or coffee. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy these sweet treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add the egg and mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Empolvados!
Pan de Pascua (Chilean Christmas Fruitcake)
This sweet bread is a staple during the holiday season in Chile, made with dried fruits, nuts, and spices. Pan de Pascua is a moist and flavorful treat that’s perfect for serving at your next festive gathering.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup candied orange peel
• 1 cup chopped raisins
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine candied orange peel, raisins, walnuts, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 2 hours and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Brazo de Reina (Chilean Swiss Roll with Dulce de Leche)
Experience the sweet and indulgent flavors of Chile with this traditional Brazo de Reina, a swiss roll filled with caramelized dulce de leche. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, beating until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 2 minutes.
8. Roll up the swiss roll while still warm. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
9. Fill with dulce de leche and dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sopaipillas Pasadas (Sweet Pumpkin Fritters in Syrup)
Sopaipillas Pasadas are a traditional Argentine dessert that combines the warmth of pumpkin with the sweetness of caramel syrup. These crispy, sweet fritters make for a perfect treat during the fall season.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Syrup (see below)
Syrup:
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar.
2. Add mashed pumpkin, milk, and mix until smooth.
3. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of batter into the oil, making sure not to overcrowd.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
6. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. To make syrup, combine sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
8. Dip fried sopaipillas in the warm syrup and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 30 minutes (including frying time)
Chilenitos (Chilean Shortbread Cookies with Manjar)
A classic Chilean treat that combines the crumbly texture of shortbread cookies with the sweet, caramel-like flavor of manjar (dulce de leche). These bite-sized Chilenitos are perfect for snacking or serving as a sweet accompaniment to your favorite hot beverage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup manjar (dulce de leche)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
8. Drizzle manjar over cooled cookies.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Kuchen de Frutas (Chilean German-Style Fruit Tart)
A classic Chilean dessert that combines the sweetness of fruit with a buttery, flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Fresh fruit of your choice (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, kiwi)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, cold butter, and confectioners’ sugar. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Arrange fresh fruit on one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the fruit and press edges to seal.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Torta de Higos (Chilean Fig Cake)
In Chile, Torta de Higos is a beloved dessert that combines the sweetness of figs with the warmth of spices. This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup chopped dried figs
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped figs.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Calzones Rotos (Fried Pastry with Powdered Sugar)
Calzones Rotos: A Delicious Italian Treat
Calzones Rotos, also known as Fried Pastry with Powdered Sugar, is a classic Italian dessert that’s crispy on the outside and sweet on the inside. This recipe yields a batch of flaky, fried pastry rings coated in powdered sugar, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in the vegetable oil, stirring with a fork until the mixture forms a shaggy dough.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into long, thin strips (about 1/2 inch wide).
6. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the pastry strips in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Dust with powdered sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Berlines (Chilean Jelly-Filled Donuts)
Berlines are a traditional Chilean dessert that consists of jelly-filled donuts, typically served during special occasions and celebrations. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make these sweet treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Jelly filling of your choice (e.g., strawberry, raspberry, or orange)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
7. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop small balls of dough into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
8. Fry the donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
9. Remove the donuts from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
10. Allow the donuts to cool before filling with your chosen jelly.
11. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mote con Huesillos (Sweet Peach and Wheat Berry Drink)
Mote con Huesillos is a traditional Peruvian drink that combines the sweetness of peaches with the nutty flavor of wheat berries. This refreshing beverage is perfect for hot summer days or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wheat berries
– 2 cups water
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Rinse the wheat berries and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked wheat berries, then place them in a blender with 2 cups of fresh water.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, similar to a thin porridge.
4. Add the diced peach and blend until well combined.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl.
6. If desired, add sugar to taste and stir well.
7. Chill the drink in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
8. Serve Mote con Huesillos cold, garnished with additional diced peaches if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a blended and chilled drink.
Arroz con Leche (Chilean Rice Pudding)
This traditional Chilean dessert is a creamy and comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its subtle sweetness and velvety texture, it’s no wonder Arroz con Leche has become a staple in many Chilean households.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Raisins and chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and cloves. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and creamy.
5. Stir in the melted butter.
6. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with raisins and chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Suspiros (Chilean Meringue Cookies)
These classic Chilean cookies are a staple at family gatherings and celebrations. With their crispy exterior and chewy interior, Suspiros are a delight to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar, whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Add vanilla extract and salt; mix well.
5. Drop small spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 1-2 hours, or until dry and crispy on the outside.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Galletas de Vino (Chilean Wine Cookies)
Galletas de Vino (Chilean Wine Cookies)
These sweet and crunchy cookies are infused with the warmth of Chilean red wine, perfect for a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup red wine (Chilean Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add the softened butter and red wine; mix until a dough forms.
4. Beat in the egg and orange zest.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Torta Tres Leches (Chilean Three-Milk Cake)
A moist and creamy cake soaked in a mixture of evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream – perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– Evaporated milk (1 can, 14 oz)
– Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz)
– Heavy cream (1 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time; beat well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Pour in milk; mix until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish; smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
9. Poke holes all over the cake with a skewer or fork.
10. Pour evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream evenly over the cake; cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cuchuflí (Chilean Wafer Tubes Filled with Manjar)
A classic Chilean dessert, Cuchuflí is a sweet treat that combines crispy wafer tubes filled with a creamy manjar filling. This recipe is an authentic take on this traditional dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of wafers (such as Cuchuflí or similar)
– Manjar filling (see below for recipe)
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Manjar Filling Recipe:
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Fill the wafer tubes with the manjar filling, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
2. Dust the tops of the Cuchuflí with confectioner’s sugar.
3. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply assemble and serve.
Summary
Discover the sweet treats of Chile! This article features 18 traditional Chilean desserts that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic baked custard (Leche Asada) and Swiss roll with dulce de leche (Brazo de Reina), to sweet pumpkin fritters in syrup (Sopaipillas Pasadas) and jelly-filled donuts (Berlines), these recipes showcase the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Chilean patisserie. Try your hand at making Chilean Christmas fruitcake (Pan de Pascua), thousand-layer cake (Torta de Mil Hojas), or wine cookies (Galletas de Vino) for a taste of this beautiful country.
