8 Must-Try Traditional Chilean Desserts

If you have a sweet tooth, you’re in for a treat with traditional Chilean desserts. The country’s culinary scene is packed with flavors and textures that reflect its rich heritage. 8 must-try traditional Chilean desserts will take you through a variety of authentic sweets, from creamy, caramel-drizzled delights to fruity pastries. These desserts offer a true taste of Chilean culture and are perfect for anyone looking to explore new flavors. Get ready to satisfy your cravings and discover the unique desserts that have become staples in Chile!

Torta de Mil Hojas

Torta de Mil Hojas is a beloved traditional Chilean dessert, known for its rich layers and smooth texture. This cake consists of thin, crispy layers of pastry filled with a creamy dulce de leche, making it both sweet and satisfying. While the process may seem a bit intricate, the result is a show-stopping dessert that delights at any celebration.

The combination of the crunchy pastry and the luscious filling creates a delightful contrast in each bite. It’s a favorite for holidays and special occasions, showcasing the essence of Chilean culinary tradition. If you love desserts that impress and are simply delicious, Torta de Mil Hojas is a must-try!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1 can (14 oz) dulce de leche
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and rub it in until crumbly. Gradually add cold water until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Roll and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough thinly and cut into rounds. Bake on parchment-lined sheets for about 15 minutes or until golden. Allow to cool.
3. Make the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla until soft peaks form.
4. Assemble the Cake: Start layering one pastry disk, spreading a layer of dulce de leche on top, followed by whipped cream. Repeat until all layers are used, finishing with a layer of dulce de leche.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least an hour before serving. Garnish with chocolate shavings.

Tomo de Maíz

Tomo de Maíz is a traditional Chilean dessert that showcases the sweet and hearty flavors of corn. This delightful dish is slightly dense, yet beautifully moist, with a texture that’s both comforting and inviting. Its mild sweetness makes it perfect for those who enjoy their desserts not overly sugary.

This recipe is relatively simple to make, making it a great option for both novice and experienced bakers. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious treat that highlights the essence of Chilean cooking and is sure to impress at any gathering.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cornmeal
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• Corn kernels for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. If desired, sprinkle corn kernels on top for added texture and flavor.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let it cool before serving. Enjoy this traditional Chilean dessert warm or at room temperature!

Pan de Pascua

Pan de Pascua is a beloved Chilean dessert, often enjoyed during the festive season. This rich fruitcake combines a variety of nuts, dried fruits, and spices, creating a delightful blend of flavors. It has a moist texture and a sweet, aromatic taste that makes it a perfect addition to any holiday table.

Making Pan de Pascua is quite straightforward, even for those who are new to baking. The ingredients come together easily, and the result is a beautiful cake that looks as good as it tastes. It’s a popular choice among traditional Chilean desserts for holidays, and once you try it, you’ll understand why!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (like raisins, apricots, and cherries)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 cup chopped chocolate (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and spices.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in the dried fruits, nuts, honey, and chocolate if using.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Mote con Huesillo

Mote con Huesillo is a beloved traditional Chilean dessert drink that combines the flavors of dried peaches and sweetened barley. This refreshing beverage is not only popular during the summer months but is also a nostalgic treat for many Chileans, evoking memories of sunny days and family gatherings. Its unique taste, featuring the natural sweetness of peaches complemented by the chewy texture of barley, makes it a delightful choice for those looking to experience authentic Chilean flavors.

Making Mote con Huesillo is quite simple and requires just a few ingredients. Perfect for anyone seeking easy Chilean desserts, this drink is sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy it chilled for a refreshing treat at any time of the year!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried peaches
• 1/2 cup barley
• 4 cups water (for boiling barley)
• 3 cups water (for soaking peaches)
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Soak the dried peaches in 3 cups of water for about 4 hours or overnight until they become soft.
2. In a pot, boil the barley in 4 cups of water for about 30-40 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a larger pot, combine the soaked peaches with the soaking water, sugar, cinnamon stick, and vanilla extract. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool. Once cooled, strain the liquid to remove the cinnamon stick and any peach skins if desired.
5. In serving glasses, layer the cooked barley and pour the peach syrup over it. Add some whole peaches to each glass and serve chilled.

Alfajores de Dulce de Leche

Alfajores de Dulce de Leche are a beloved part of Chilean culture and perfect for any occasion. These delightful cookies consist of two soft, crumbly biscuits sandwiched together with creamy dulce de leche, making them a sweet treat that melts in your mouth. The combination of textures—from the delicate cookie to the rich filling—is simply irresistible. Plus, they are relatively easy to make, so even novice bakers can whip them up with confidence.

These cookies are often dusted with powdered sugar, adding a touch of elegance to their appearance. Perfect for Chilean desserts for celebrations or as a cozy snack with a warm drink, alfajores are among the popular Chilean desserts to try. Whether you enjoy them during a festive gathering or just as an everyday treat, they are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup dulce de leche
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, and powdered sugar. Add in the softened butter, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms.
2. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.
3. Roll and Cut: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut out circles.
4. Bake: Place the circles on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Let them cool completely.
5. Assemble: Spread a generous layer of dulce de leche on one cookie and top with another. Dust the filled cookies with powdered sugar before serving.

Chilenitos with Merengue

Chilenitos are a delightful treat that combines soft, sweet cookies with a luscious filling, often made with dulce de leche. Topped with a fluffy meringue, these traditional Chilean desserts are a perfect mix of textures and flavors. They are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making them a great choice for gatherings or just a sweet treat at home.

The cookies have a light, buttery taste and pair wonderfully with the sweetness of dulce de leche and the airy meringue. If you’re looking for authentic Chilean dessert recipes, Chilenitos with meringue are a must-try. They are especially popular during holidays and celebrations, adding a festive touch to any table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup dulce de leche
• 3 egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• Red fruit jam (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the flour and cornstarch until a soft dough forms.
3. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand.
4. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
5. Prepare the Meringue: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
6. Assemble the Chilenitos: Spread a layer of dulce de leche on one cookie, top with another cookie, and then pipe or spread the meringue on top. If desired, add a dollop of red fruit jam for an extra burst of flavor.
7. Finish and Serve: Use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the meringue for a toasted effect, or you can place them under the broiler for a few seconds being careful not to burn. Enjoy your Chilenitos!

Choclo con Queso

Choclo con Queso is a delightful and simple dish that brings together fresh corn and creamy cheese. This traditional Chilean treat bursts with sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The dish is not only easy to prepare but also a wonderful representation of Chile’s rich culinary heritage.

To make Choclo con Queso, you’ll need fresh corn, which is the star of the show, along with a flavorful cheese like queso fresco or mozzarella. This combination creates a satisfying dish that’s perfect as a snack or a side. It’s a great addition to any meal and showcases how simple ingredients can lead to delicious results.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6 ears of corn)
• 1 cup queso fresco or mozzarella, diced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, remove the kernels from the cobs. If using frozen corn, thaw it before proceeding.
2. Cook the Corn: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the corn and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until tender. Season with salt and black pepper.
3. Add the Cheese: Once the corn is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the diced cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and gooey.
4. Serve: Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy warm as a delicious snack or side dish!

Empanadas de Manzana

Empanadas de Manzana are a traditional Chilean dessert that beautifully combines sweet apples with a flaky pastry. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy night in. Each bite is a mix of warm, spiced apple filling wrapped in golden-brown dough, often enjoyed with a scoop of ice cream on top for added indulgence.

This recipe is simple enough for anyone to try, making it a fantastic introduction to Chilean desserts. With just a few ingredients, you can create these tasty empanadas that will impress your friends and family. If you love exploring Chilean pastry recipes, this one is a must!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 3 large apples, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a saucepan, combine diced apples, cinnamon, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until apples are tender. Let cool.
3. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles about 4 inches in diameter.
4. Fill and Seal: Place a spoonful of apple filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over and press the edges to seal, then crimp with a fork.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with beaten egg. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Experience the Richness of Chilean Flavors

If you’re eager to try these Chilean desserts or want to find local businesses offering these flavorful treats, check out our dessert directory to discover small businesses near you. Supporting local bakeries allows you to enjoy authentic desserts inspired by Chile’s rich culinary traditions.

For those ready to try making these Chilean desserts at home, why not share your own creations with us? Submit your recipe here and join a growing community of dessert lovers exploring global flavors.

Chilean desserts are an exciting blend of textures and flavors, with rich creams, fresh fruits, and unique spices playing a starring role. Whether you’re enjoying a creamy alfajor or a tangy mote con huesillo, these traditional sweets offer a fun and delicious way to experience Chilean culture through food.

At Creme Filled Churros, we’re here to inspire your next dessert adventure. Explore these 8 must-try traditional Chilean desserts, and let us guide you to creating memorable treats that bring a taste of Chile to your kitchen!