Pandebono

Pandebono

Pandebono (pahn-deh-BOH-noh)

Colombian Cheese Bread

Prep Time 15 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
10
🔥 Calories 166 kcal

Warm, chewy cheese bread rolls made with tapioca starch and queso fresco, golden outside with a stretchy, cheesy center — the quintessential Colombian bakery item.

Nutrition & Info

170 kcal per serving
Protein 6.0g
Carbs 22.0g
Fat 6.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ dairy ⚠ eggs

Equipment Needed

mixing bowl baking sheet oven

Presentation Guide

Vessel: napkin-lined basket

Accompaniments: hot chocolate, coffee

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine tapioca starch, masarepa, and salt in a bowl.

  2. 2

    Add grated cheeses, sugar, and softened butter. Mix well.

  3. 3

    Add egg and knead until a smooth, slightly sticky dough forms. If too dry, add 1 tbsp milk.

  4. 4

    Divide into 10 balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

  5. 5

    Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 min until puffed and golden with light brown spots.

  6. 6

    Serve warm — they are best fresh from the oven.

💡

Did You Know?

In Cali, pandebono is so popular that bakeries have drive-through windows dedicated solely to fresh pandebono and coffee.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • oven

Accompaniments

hot chocolate, coffee

The Story Behind Pandebono

Pandebono originated in the Valle del Cauca department, named after a town near Cali. The use of tapioca starch instead of wheat flour reflects indigenous and African influences on Colombian baking. Each bakery guards its proportions of cheese to starch, and Caleños debate their favorite pandebono source with fierce loyalty.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed breakfast or afternoon snack 📜 Origins: Valle del Cauca tradition

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