Pastillas de Leche (Filipino Milk Candy)
Pastillas de Leche are traditional Filipino milk candies known for their creamy texture and melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. Made with simple pantry ingredients, these bite-sized treats are perfect for gifting, snacking, or adding to a dessert spread. Choose between the authentic slow-cooked version or a quick no-cook shortcut!
Ingredients
- Traditional Version
- 4 cups fresh milk preferably carabao’s milk or whole cow’s milk
- 1 cup white sugar divided (⅔ cup for cooking, ⅓ cup for coating)
- ¾ cup full-cream powdered milk e.g., Nido
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp calamansi zest optional, for citrus flavor
- No-Cook Shortcut Version
- 1 can condensed milk
- 2 cups powdered milk
- Extra sugar for coating
Instructions
- Traditional Method (Authentic Flavor)
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, combine fresh milk and ⅔ cup of sugar.
- Simmer on low heat, stirring constantly for about 1 hour, or until the mixture thickens into a paste-like consistency.
- Add powdered milk and butter. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Let the mixture cool slightly, then knead into a soft, pliable dough.
- Scoop and shape into small logs (about 1-inch long).
- Roll each piece in the remaining sugar to coat.
- Wrap in papel de hapon or wax paper for presentation.
- Pro Tip: The mixture is ready when it "cleans" the sides of the pan while stirring—indicating the correct thickness.
- No-Cook Version (Quick & Easy)
- In a bowl, mix 1 can of condensed milk with 2 cups powdered milk.
- Knead the mixture until a smooth, dough-like consistency forms.
- Shape into small balls or logs.
- Roll in sugar to coat thoroughly.
- Chill for 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Notes
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Store in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.