Colombian Bunuelos – Best Holiday Snack

Colombian Bunuelos are golden, crispy, cheesy bites that strike a perfect balance between salty and sweet. A beloved holiday staple in Colombia, these deep-fried dough balls are enjoyed year-round as a snack. Made with a unique blend of cheeses and flours, Colombian Bunuelos offer a soft, spongy interior with a delightful crunch on the outside. This recipe brings authentic flavor straight to your kitchen with easy-to-follow steps and everyday ingredients.

Why You’ll Love These Colombian Bunuelos

These Colombian Bunuelos are the perfect mix of convenience and tradition. They’re quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and require only a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or simply craving a Latin American snack, this recipe delivers. Their slightly sweet, slightly savory profile makes them a versatile treat that pairs well with everything from coffee to Colombian Natilla.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

• Queso Costeño or Feta Cheese: Provides the signature salty, tangy flavor and firm texture.
• Queso Fresco: Adds creaminess and softens the tang of feta if used in combination.
• Cornstarch: Ensures a light, spongy interior; crucial for achieving the right texture.
• Cassava Flour (Yuca Starch): Delivers elasticity and authentic chewy consistency.
• White Granulated Sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the cheese’s saltiness.
• Baking Powder: Helps the bunuelos puff up and remain airy inside.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the cheese flavor.
• Egg: Binds ingredients and adds structure to the dough.
• Butter: Adds moisture and flavor richness.
• Milk: Optional, but helps bring the dough together for smooth consistency.
• Vegetable Oil: Used for deep frying; gives the bunuelos their golden crust.

Substitutions & Smart Swaps

If you don’t have access to queso costeño, try one of these options:

• Feta Cheese: Closest in saltiness and texture, though more tangy.
• Queso Fresco: Mild and crumbly, it complements feta well if used as a mix.
• Cassava Flour: Cannot be substituted – it’s essential for authenticity.
• Butter: If unsalted butter is unavailable, use ghee or a plant-based butter alternative.
• Milk: Use dairy-free milk like almond or oat if needed — add it gradually to avoid stickiness.

How to Make Colombian Bunuelos Step-by-Step

1. Grate the Cheese
   Use the fine side of a grater. The finer the grate, the better it blends into the dough, ensuring a smooth consistency.
2. Form the Dough
   In a large mixing bowl, combine grated cheese, cornstarch, cassava flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, egg, and butter. Begin mixing until a dough starts to form.
3. Add Milk Gradually
   Add 1 tbsp of milk at a time (if needed), kneading thoroughly between additions. The dough should be soft, hydrated, but not sticky — similar to Play-Doh or pan de yuca.
4. Heat the Oil
   Pour enough oil into a deep pot so that the bunuelos can float. Heat to 320–340°F (160–180°C). A kitchen thermometer ensures accuracy.
5. Fry in Batches
   Drop in 3–4 bunuelos at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Flip as needed for even coloring.
6. Drain and Serve
   Remove bunuelos and place them on paper towels. Serve hot with a slice of Colombian Natilla or enjoy them solo!

Insider Tips for Perfect Bunuelos

• Don’t skip the cheese grating step — it’s crucial for smooth dough and proper texture.
• Maintain oil temperature — too cold, and they soak up oil; too hot, and they burn outside while staying raw inside.
• Avoid overworking the dough — knead just enough for cohesion.
• Use fresh oil — old or reused oil can negatively affect flavor.
• Serve immediately — Colombian Bunuelos taste best when freshly fried.

Pairing Ideas and Recipe Variations

Pair With:

• Colombian Natilla – for a traditional holiday duo
• Hot Chocolate or Coffee – perfect for an afternoon treat
• Spiced Fruit Compote – to enhance their sweet-savory profile

Try These Variations:

• Stuffed Bunuelos: Add guava paste or more cheese inside for a gooey center.
• Mini Bunuelos: Make smaller portions for party snacks.
• Spicy Bunuelos: Add a pinch of cayenne for a subtle heat.
• Gluten-Free Tip: This recipe is naturally gluten-free due to the use of cornstarch and cassava flour.

Make-Ahead Tips:
Colombian Bunuelos are best enjoyed fresh. However, if needed:

• Store in an airtight container for 1 day at room temp or up to 3 days refrigerated.
• Reheat in an air fryer at 250°F (120°C) for 5–6 minutes, or microwave for 10–15 seconds.

The Cultural Delight Behind Colombian Bunuelos

Colombian Bunuelos are more than just a snack — they’re a cultural staple, especially during Christmas festivities. Traditionally served alongside Natilla, they are shared among families during “Nochebuena” (Christmas Eve) and community celebrations. Their unique balance of flavor and texture symbolizes the fusion of indigenous and Spanish culinary influences found in Colombian cuisine. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or indulging in a nostalgic treat, Colombian Bunuelos offer a delicious bite of tradition.

Conclusion

Colombian Bunuelos are more than just a recipe—they’re a piece of Colombian culture you can hold in your hand and enjoy in every bite. With their crispy exterior, cheesy interior, and perfect salty-sweet balance, they offer a comforting experience that’s ideal for the holidays or anytime you’re craving something unique and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing these for a traditional Christmas celebration or simply indulging in a savory snack with Latin American flair, this Colombian Bunuelos recipe brings authentic flavor to your home kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions About Colombian Bunuelos

More Relevant Recipes

• Mexican Bunuelos Recipe (Cinnamon Sugar): A close cousin to Colombian Bunuelos, this Mexican version features crispy fried dough tossed in cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist. Perfect for holiday celebrations or a fun snack with coffee, it brings a flavorful contrast to the salty-sweet Colombian style.
• Cuban Bunuelos – Authentic Recipe: These twisted and deep-fried dough delights are similar in spirit to Colombian Bunuelos, often flavored with anise and served with syrup. They’re a fantastic alternative for anyone looking to explore Latin fried treats with rich cultural roots.
• Bunuelos Recipe: This general recipe for Bunuelos captures the essence of the dish across various Latin cultures. With a soft inside and crispy exterior, it complements the Colombian variation and is a great way to appreciate the diversity of this classic fried dough snack.

Print