The African influence in Colombia is deeply rooted in the country’s history and culture. From the arrival of enslaved Africans during the colonial period to their contributions to music, dance, and cuisine, their presence has shaped Colombia’s identity. Afro-Colombian sweets are a testament to this cultural fusion. These sweets incorporate traditional African ingredients and techniques with Colombian flavors, creating a unique and delicious culinary experience.
Afro-Colombian sweets are not only popular within the Afro-Colombian community, but also attractive among Colombians of all backgrounds. These sweets serve as a symbol of unity and celebration, showcasing the diversity and richness of Colombian cuisine.
Here is a list of some popular Afro-Colombian sweets you should try while visiting Colombia.
Bocadillo Veleño
Situated in the Vélez area, Bocadillo Veleño consists of guava paste and panela (unrefined cane sugar). It results in a sweet delight. It possesses a thick and sticky texture and offers a blend of sweet and tangy tastes that both locals and tourists adore. This classic treat involves guava paste, which is accompanied by a slice of cheese, forming a delightful harmony of sweet and savory notes.
Arroz con Coco
A favorite treat in Colombia’s coastal areas, Arroz con Coco holds a special place as a cherished dessert crafted from rice, coconut milk and panela. These ingredients come together to create a comforting, creamy delight. Its texture is both creamy and slightly sticky, accompanied by a gentle coconut essence that harmonizes beautifully with various traditional Colombian dishes. Often savored to beat the heat or as a delightful conclusion to a meal, this dessert enjoys popularity as a refreshing snack on warm days or a sweet finale to dining.
Aborrajados
Aborrajados, a beloved delicacy in the state of Antioquia, consists of ripe plantains filled with cheese, fried until perfectly golden, and topped with a powdered sugar. The combination of the sweet and savory flavors creates a delightful contrast that is sure to please any palate.
Cocadas
Cocadas are traditional Afro-Colombian sweets, which consists of grated coconut, sugar and condensed milk. These bite-sized treats are popular in Colombian households, offering a tropical flavor and chewy texture. They have cheese, coated in batter, and deep-fried to perfection, offering a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.
Manjar Blanco
Known as “dulce de leche,” this Afro-Colombian confection presents itself as a smooth, caramel-like delicacy commonly relished in its pure form or employed as a delectable filling for pastries and cakes. The creation process involves a gradual simmering of milk and sugar until it attains a dense consistency, along with the emergence of a luscious caramel essence. Esteemed in Colombia, manjar blanco is a treasured dessert that graces the shelves of numerous traditional Colombian bakeries.
Enyucado
These treats combine grated cassava with cheese, sugar and occasionally coconut milk. Subsequently, they undergo baking until they develop a golden and crispy exterior.. Enyucados are popular across various Latin American nations. In Colombia, they are relished as a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The melding of cassava’s starchy consistency with the salty taste of cheese produces an exceptional and delectable snack that garners affection from both residents and tourists.