What are Pastillas de Leche and where do they come from?

Pastillas de Leche are a traditional Filipino candy made primarily from milk and sugar. Originating from the Bulacan province, these soft, creamy sweets are typically made using carabao milk, which gives them a rich flavor. They have a smooth texture and are often flavored with a hint of citrus, such as calamansi or lime zest, providing a slight tang that balances the sweetness.

What ingredients do I need to make authentic Pastillas de Leche?

To make authentic Pastillas de Leche, you will need full-cream powdered milk or fresh carabao milk (whole cow’s milk can substitute), granulated sugar, butter, and citrus zest like lime or calamansi for added flavor. Avoid using low-fat or skim milk since full-fat milk is essential for the candy’s creamy texture.

How do I cook the milk and sugar mixture to make Pastillas de Leche without it curdling?

Cook the milk and sugar mixture over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent lumps and scorching. Avoid boiling vigorously as this can curdle the milk and change the texture. The process usually takes about 1 to 1½ hours until the mixture thickens into a paste-like consistency suitable for shaping.

What should I do if my Pastillas mixture is too sticky to shape?

If the Pastillas mixture feels too soft or sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes. This helps firm up the mixture, making it easier to roll into logs or rounds without sticking to your hands. You can also dust your hands with powdered sugar while shaping.

How can I store Pastillas de Leche to keep them fresh longer?

Store Pastillas de Leche by first wrapping each piece in colorful cellophane or wax paper. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to store the unshaped mixture, press plastic wrap tightly over the surface and refrigerate for up to 3 days before shaping and wrapping.

Pastillas De Leche Recipe For Creamy Filipino Treats 2024

Name: Pastillas De Leche
Prep time: 2 h 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: – 5 cups fresh milk (either carabao or whole cow’s milk); – 1 cup sugar; – ½ teaspoon lime or calamansi zest; – 2 tablespoons butter; – ¾ cup full cream powdered milk

Ingredients

– 5 cups fresh milk (either carabao or whole cow’s milk)

– 1 cup sugar

– ½ teaspoon lime or calamansi zest

– 2 tablespoons butter

– ¾ cup full cream powdered milk

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Instructions

1-Gather: Gather and measure all ingredients precisely; prepare your work surface.

2-Mixing: In a mixing bowl or skillet, combine the milk with two-thirds of the sugar over low heat; stir until it thickens into a paste, about 1 to 1 ½ hours.

3-Incorporate: Incorporate the lime zest, then add butter and powdered milk, stirring until smooth.

4-Cook: Continue cooking for 3 to 5 minutes until it forms a soft dough that pulls from the pan.

5-Finish: Cool on a lightly oiled plate, divide into 40 portions, shape into logs, coat in sugar, and wrap.

6-Substitute: For vegan or low-calorie diets, use substitutes like plant-based milk without changing the time.

Notes

🕰 Cook over low heat and stir frequently to prevent curdling or burning.
❄ Chill the mixture briefly if it’s too soft to shape for easier handling.
🎁 Store candies in airtight containers with plastic wrap pressed on the surface to maintain freshness.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 2 hours
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop Cooking and Shaping
Cuisine: Filipino
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: 55
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 30mg
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 7mg