If you have a sweet tooth and love the irresistible combination of creamy and crunchy textures, then you’ll adore this Cookies and Cream Pastillas Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on the classic Filipino treat, transforming simple ingredients like sweetened condensed milk and crushed cookies into bite-sized morsels of pure joy. Whether you’re looking for a quick homemade gift or a snack to satisfy your dessert cravings, these pastillas blend the nostalgic taste of cookies and cream with the smooth richness of traditional dairy goodness perfectly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together Cookies and Cream Pastillas is a breeze with just a handful of everyday ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from adding sweetness and creaminess to giving that signature cookies and cream flavor that makes this recipe stand out.
- Sweetened condensed milk: The base that creates the creamy, sticky texture essential for pastillas.
- Powdered milk: Adds body and a smooth, mild dairy flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness.
- Crushed cookies: Choose Oreos or chocolate wafer cookies to bring that delicious chocolate crunch throughout.
- Powdered sugar: Used for coating, it adds a delicate sweetness and a pretty finish.
- Vanilla extract (optional): A touch of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making the pastillas taste even more luscious.
How to Make Cookies and Cream Pastillas Recipe
Step 1: Form the Pastillas Dough
Start by pouring the sweetened condensed milk into a large mixing bowl. Slowly add the powdered milk while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. This gradual mixing transforms the liquid milk into a thick, dough-like consistency that’s easy to handle and the perfect base for our Cookies and Cream Pastillas Recipe.
Step 2: Mix in the Crushed Cookies
Once your dough is smooth, fold in the crushed cookies thoroughly. This step is where the magic happens — the cookie bits give a delicious texture contrast that’s so satisfying to bite into. If you’re feeling fancy, stir in a teaspoon of vanilla extract to lift all the flavors.
Step 3: Shape the Pastillas
Now comes the fun part! Scoop small portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms into cute little balls or logs. This shaping creates perfect single-serving treats that are easy to enjoy and share.
Step 4: Coat with Powdered Sugar
Roll each shaped pastillas piece in powdered sugar until well coated. This not only adds sweetness but also keeps them from sticking to each other, giving a lovely snowy appearance.
Step 5: Chill to Set
Place the coated pastillas in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps them firm up, improving the texture so they hold their shape perfectly when you bite into them.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Cookies and Cream Pastillas are now ready to be devoured! Serve them chilled or at room temperature, and revel in the creamy, crunchy combination that makes this treat so special.
How to Serve Cookies and Cream Pastillas Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle finely crushed cookies or mini chocolate chips on top before serving. You can also dust a light layer of cocoa powder or drizzle a little melted chocolate to intensify the chocolatey goodness that complements the pastillas beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair these pastillas with hot beverages like coffee, tea, or even a rich hot chocolate to balance their sweetness. They also make a fantastic dessert after a savory meal, cleansing your palate while offering a delightful sweet finish.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by arranging them on colorful platters lined with doilies or edible flowers for celebrations. Wrap a few pastillas in small parchment paper squares tied with twine to create charming gift boxes or party favors your friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cookies and Cream Pastillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from drying out. They can stay delicious for up to a week when properly stored.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, pastillas freeze wonderfully. Place them in a single layer on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
Reheating
These pastillas are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is generally unnecessary. If you prefer a softer texture, allow them to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cookies for this Cookies and Cream Pastillas Recipe?
Absolutely! While Oreos and chocolate wafers are classic, you can experiment with any cookies you love. Just choose ones that crumble easily and complement the creamy texture.
Is powdered milk necessary for this recipe?
Powdered milk is key for achieving the right pastillas dough consistency and a mild milky flavor. Using full cream powdered milk enhances richness, but non-fat versions will still work.
Can I make the dough without vanilla extract?
Yes, vanilla extract is optional. It adds a lovely aroma and depth to the flavor but isn’t essential to the success of the Cookies and Cream Pastillas Recipe.
How long do Cookies and Cream Pastillas last?
When stored properly in the fridge in an airtight container, they last up to one week. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
What’s the best way to crush the cookies?
Place cookies in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush with a rolling pin or use a food processor for a finer texture. Coarser crumbs give more crunch, while finer crumbs mix more uniformly.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the comforting, nostalgic flavor of this Cookies and Cream Pastillas Recipe. It’s a simple treat that brings smiles and makes every bite feel special, whether you’re sharing with loved ones or indulging solo. Give it a try—you’ll find it hard to stop at just one!
Print
Cookies and Cream Pastillas Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Filipino
Description
A delightful twist on the traditional Filipino pastillas, these Cookies and Cream Pastillas combine the creamy sweetness of condensed milk and powdered milk with the crunchy texture of crushed cookies. Coated with powdered sugar, they offer a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy in every bite, ideal for sharing as a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 cups powdered milk (or full cream powdered milk)
- 1/2 cup crushed cookies (like Oreos or chocolate wafer cookies)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Coating
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Make Pastillas Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, pour the sweetened condensed milk. Gradually add the powdered milk while stirring constantly until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency.
- Add Cookies and Flavor: Stir in the crushed cookies evenly into the pastillas mixture. Add vanilla extract if desired to enhance the flavor, mixing thoroughly.
- Shape the Pastillas: Scoop small portions of the mixture and use your hands to roll them into small balls or log shapes.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar: Roll the shaped pastillas in powdered sugar until evenly coated on all sides.
- Chill to Set: Place the coated pastillas in the fridge and chill for about 30 minutes to allow them to firm up and set properly.
- Serve: Serve the Cookies and Cream Pastillas at room temperature or chilled for a creamy, crunchy, and delicious treat.
Notes
- You can substitute the crushed cookies with any favorite cookies for different flavor variations.
- Ensure the pastillas mixture is firm enough before rolling to prevent stickiness.
- Store the pastillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days for best freshness.
- Vanilla extract is optional but enhances the flavor complexity.
- This recipe does not require cooking or baking, making it a quick and easy no-cook treat.
