Panderos
Colombian Cheese and Corn Bread Rings
Deliciously sweet and savory cheese and corn bread rings, perfect for breakfast or a snack, especially when paired with a hot cup of coffee.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup Masarepa (pre-cooked corn flour)(Ensure it's masarepa, not masa harina. Brands like Harina PAN or P.A.N. work well.)
- 200g Shredded cheese(A blend of white cheese like costeño or queso fresco, and a mild melting cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack is recommended for flavor and texture. Adjust to your preference.)
- 100g Unsalted butter, softened(Using softened butter will make it easier to incorporate into the dough.)
- 2 tbsp Granulated sugar(For a touch of sweetness. Can be adjusted to taste.)
- 1/2 tsp Salt(Enhances the flavors.)
- 1/4 cup (approx.) Water or milk(To help bind the dough. Add gradually as needed.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the masarepa, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Using your fingertips or a pastry blender, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Add the shredded cheese to the bowl. Mix well to distribute the cheese evenly throughout the crumbly mixture.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Gradually add the water or milk, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until a cohesive dough forms. The dough should be firm but pliable, not sticky. You may not need all the liquid, or you might need a little more, depending on the humidity and the masarepa.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a log about 15 cm (6 inches) long. Gently form each log into a ring shape, pinching the ends together to seal. If the dough is too dry, moisten your fingers with a little water. If it's too sticky, dust your hands lightly with masarepa.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 6
Place the formed panderos on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown and firm to the touch. The edges should be slightly crisp.
⏱️ 25-30 minutes - 7
Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
⏱️ 10 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a sweeter panderos, you can increase the sugar slightly.
- ✓For a cheesier flavor, use a higher proportion of cheese or a stronger flavored cheese.
- ✓These are best enjoyed fresh, ideally within a day or two of baking.
- ✓Serve warm with a cup of Colombian coffee for an authentic experience.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of cumin or a finely chopped jalapeño for a savory kick.
- Incorporate a small amount of finely chopped cilantro into the dough.
- For a richer dough, substitute half of the water/milk with melted butter.