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If you’ve ever dreamed of a sweet treat that perfectly blends creamy richness with the irresistible crunch of cookies, then this Cookies and Cream Pastillas Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These delightful Filipino-inspired sweets take the traditional pastillas to a whole new level by folding in crushed cookies for that playful texture and deep chocolate flavor. Silky, smooth, and just the right amount of sugary indulgence, these pastillas are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, whether it’s for a party, a gift, or just a cozy night in with a cup of tea.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cookies and Cream Pastillas Recipe shines because of its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a special role, from the creamy smoothness of sweetened condensed milk to the delicate sweetness of powdered sugar that finishes each little bite.
- Sweetened condensed milk: The backbone of the pastillas, providing rich creaminess and natural sweetness.
- Powdered milk (preferably full cream): Adds body and a luscious smooth texture to the mixture for that perfect dough consistency.
- Crushed cookies: Like Oreos or chocolate wafer cookies, they bring the signature cookies and cream crunch and flavor you’ll love.
- Powdered sugar: For that final touch of sweetness and the classic pastillas coating that keeps each piece beautifully finished.
- Vanilla extract (optional): A splash of vanilla enhances the creaminess and deepens the flavor, making every bite even more memorable.
How to Make Cookies and Cream Pastillas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture Base
Start by pouring the sweetened condensed milk into a large mixing bowl, the luscious foundation that carries all the flavor. Gradually add the powdered milk while stirring constantly to create a dough-like blend. The smoothness here is key, so take your time mixing until you get that perfect pliable consistency.
Step 2: Incorporate the Crushed Cookies
Next, gently fold in the crushed cookies to ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the pastillas mixture. This is where the magic happens—every bite gets a little crunch and bursts of chocolate goodness. If you want to add a hint of extra warmth, stir in a teaspoon of vanilla extract now.
Step 3: Shape Your Pastillas
Once your dough is mixed, scoop small portions and roll them into bite-sized balls or logs, whatever feels right in your hands. This step is fun and tactile, watching your mixture transform from gooey dough to delightful little treats.
Step 4: Coat with Powdered Sugar
Roll each shaped pastilla in powdered sugar to give it a snowy, sweet coating. This not only adds an irresistible look but also provides a delicate crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy center.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Place the coated pastillas on a tray and let them chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps them firm up, making them easier to handle and enhancing their melt-in-your-mouth texture.
How to Serve Cookies and Cream Pastillas Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of fun, sprinkle a few crushed cookie crumbs or even mini chocolate chips on top of the powdered sugar coating. A light dusting of cocoa powder also adds a sophisticated depth without overpowering the sweet creamy flavor. These little extras make your treats pop visually and elevate every bite.
Side Dishes
Cookies and Cream Pastillas make an excellent companion to a hot cup of coffee or a frothy glass of cold milk. For an afternoon snack, pair them with fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas, which complement the rich sweetness and keep things refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these pastillas in small cupcake liners or arrange them artistically on a dessert platter lined with doilies for a party-ready display. You can also place them in small mason jars tied with ribbon for charming homemade gift ideas that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store your Cookies and Cream Pastillas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. The powdered sugar coating helps keep them from sticking together, making them just as enjoyable the next day.
Freezing
These pastillas freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 2 months frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight to keep that perfect creamy texture.
Reheating
Since Cookies and Cream Pastillas are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. Simply let them sit out for 10–15 minutes after refrigeration to soften slightly before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cookies for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Oreos and chocolate wafers are classic choices, you can experiment with different cookies like chocolate chip, vanilla wafers, or even crushed biscuits to add your own twist to the Cookies and Cream Pastillas Recipe.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for this recipe?
Since the recipe relies heavily on dairy-based ingredients like sweetened condensed milk and powdered milk, it’s challenging to make it fully non-dairy without altering the texture. However, there are plant-based condensed milk alternatives available that you can try, though the result might be a bit different but still delicious.
Can I make pastillas without powdered sugar coating?
You can skip the powdered sugar coating if you prefer a less sweet finish, but it definitely adds that traditional touch and helps keep the pastillas from sticking together. Alternatively, you might try rolling them in finely crushed cookies for a textural twist.
How long does it take to make Cookies and Cream Pastillas?
From start to finish, these pastillas take about 40 minutes to prepare, including chilling time. It’s a quick and rewarding project that’s perfect for a weekend treat or last-minute dessert idea.
Can I double or halve the recipe?
Yes! The recipe scales beautifully. Just be sure to maintain the balance between sweetened condensed milk, powdered milk, and cookies to keep the texture just right. Mixing larger batches might take a bit more elbow grease but is totally worth it.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Cookies and Cream Pastillas Recipe inspires you to bring a little extra joy to your dessert table. It’s a playful fusion of classic Filipino sweets with the universally loved cookies and cream flavor that’s sure to delight everyone you share it with. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a go-to treat for every occasion and a favorite snack to whip up whenever the craving strikes. Go ahead, dive in, and enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!
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Print
Cookies and Cream Pastillas Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Confectionery
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Filipino
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cookies and Cream Pastillas are a delightful Filipino confection that combines the creamy sweetness of condensed milk and powdered milk with the crunchy texture of crushed cookies. These bite-sized treats are coated in powdered sugar, offering a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy in every bite. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, these pastillas are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pastillas Mixture
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 cups powdered milk (full cream powdered milk recommended)
- 1/2 cup crushed cookies (such as Oreos or chocolate wafer cookies)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Coating
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the ingredients including sweetened condensed milk, powdered milk, crushed cookies, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract if using.
- Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, pour the sweetened condensed milk. Gradually add the powdered milk while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a dough-like consistency that can be shaped by hand.
- Incorporate the cookies: Stir in the crushed cookies evenly into the pastillas mixture. Add the vanilla extract if desired to enhance the flavor, mixing thoroughly.
- Shape the pastillas: Using your hands or a scoop, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls or log shapes.
- Coat with powdered sugar: Roll each shaped pastillas in powdered sugar to ensure an even, sweet coating.
- Chill and set: Place the coated pastillas in the refrigerator and chill for about 30 minutes to firm up and set properly before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy the Cookies and Cream Pastillas either at room temperature or chilled for a creamy, crunchy treat.
Notes
- The powdered milk is best added gradually to get the right dough consistency.
- For a stronger cookies and cream flavor, use Oreos with the filling included in the crushed cookies.
- Vanilla extract is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Store pastillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Handling the mixture with slightly damp hands can prevent sticking while shaping.
