The Colombian flavor of Christmas
In Colombia, the arrival of December brings with it the unmistakable aroma of natilla and buñuelos , two recipes that have become symbols of family unity and tradition. Preparing these desserts is not only a culinary ritual, but also a way to keep alive customs passed down from generation to generation.
These treats are part of the most anticipated celebrations of the year, especially during the Christmas novenas , the Day of the Little Candles , and Christmas Eve . Learning to make them perfectly will allow you to relive the Colombian Christmas spirit with every bite.
Ingredients for a traditional Colombian custard
Natilla is a smooth, sweet, and creamy dessert made with cornstarch and milk, very popular throughout the country. Although each region has its own variations, this traditional recipe retains the classic flavor that everyone loves.
Ingredients:
1 liter of whole milk
½ cup cornstarch (cornflour)
1 cup of grated panela or brown sugar
1 cup shredded coconut (optional)
1 cinnamon stick
1 tablespoon of butter
½ cup of raisins (optional)
Ground cinnamon for decoration
Tip: In some regions, such as Antioquia and Santander, a little coconut or cloves are added to intensify the flavor.
Step-by-step preparation of custard
Mix the dry ingredients
In a separate container, dissolve the cornstarch in a cup of cold milk to avoid lumps.Heat the milk with the panela and cinnamon
In a large pot, bring the remaining milk to a boil with the panela and cinnamon stick. Stir until the panela is completely dissolved.Incorporate the cornstarch mixture
When the milk is hot, gradually add the cornstarch mixture while stirring constantly. Lower the heat and continue stirring until thickened.Add butter and coconut
Add the butter and, if desired, the shredded coconut or raisins. Mix until you get a creamy texture.Serve and decorate
Pour the mixture into a mold or individual containers, let it cool, and sprinkle cinnamon on top.
Traditional custard should have a firm yet smooth texture, with a sweet and comforting aroma. It's the perfect accompaniment to freshly made fritters.
Ingredients for perfect fritters
Colombian buñuelos are small, golden, and fluffy spheres made from costeño cheese or curd. Their crispy exterior and soft interior make them the perfect partner for natilla.
Ingredients:
1 cup of cassava starch
1 cup of grated costeño cheese or curd
½ cup of cornstarch
1 teaspoon of baking powder
1 egg
2 tablespoons of sugar
¼ cup of milk (approximately)
Vegetable oil for frying
How to prepare fritters step by step
Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cassava starch, cornstarch, baking powder, and sugar.Add the cheese and the egg
Add the grated cheese and the egg. Mix until a smooth dough forms.Add the milk gradually
Add the milk slowly until the dough has a smooth, manageable consistency, without being sticky.Form the little balls
Take small portions and make balls the size of a walnut.Fry carefully
Heat enough oil in a deep pot over medium heat (160–170 °C). Fry the fritters in batches so they brown evenly and don't burst.Drain and serve
Place them on absorbent paper and serve them hot alongside the custard.
Tips for making perfect custard and fritters
Oil temperature: if it is too hot, the fritters will open; if it is too cold, they will soak up fat.
Type of cheese: use a salty and firm one; costeño or campesino cheese are ideal.
Custard texture: don't let it thicken too much on the heat, as it hardens when it cools.
Special touch: serve with flakes, cookies or a glass of homemade eggnog.
Tradition and family unity around the table
In many regions of Colombia, preparing natilla and buñuelos becomes a moment of family togetherness. Grandmothers, parents, and children gather to cook, share stories, and sing Christmas carols. These recipes represent not only flavor, but also love, memories, and a sense of belonging.
Celebrations like Candle Day or Christmas Eve wouldn't be complete without these desserts that fill homes with joy. If you're interested in learning about other end-of-year customs, you can also read Christmas in Colombia 2025: Customs, Novenas, and Unique Traditions .
Regional variations of custard and fritters
Antioquia: natilla is prepared with panela and coconut, and buñuelos are smaller and sweeter.
Caribbean Coast: coastal cheese and lemon zest are added to enhance the flavor.
Boyacá and Cundinamarca: prefer custard with cloves and fritters made with fresh curd.
Each region adds its own special touch, demonstrating the country's rich cultural and gastronomic heritage.
The Colombian culinary legacy
Preparing natilla and buñuelos is more than just cooking: it's celebrating Colombian identity. It's a legacy that unites us across regions and evokes the best childhood memories.
Like other traditions mentioned in articles such as The most beautiful Christmas lights in Colombia 2025 , this custom is part of the soul of Christmas in our country.