Ecuadorian dessert: Pristiños or Christmas fritters

The best way to end a meal or share time with our loved ones is with a nice dessert.

What better way to learn about the gastronomy of Ecuador and end your meal than by tasting one of the traditional desserts of the country?

We want to share the flavors that are traditional to the different regions of the country, and today highlight the ponche, a dessert or beverage that started as a tradition in the city of Quito and then expanded to other places in the country.

The origins of pristiños

Pristiños, a traditional Christmas dessert in Ecuador, trace their origins back to Andalusia in Southern Spain. These fried pastries, typically shaped like crowns, are often enjoyed with a drizzle of miel de panela or piloncillo syrup. Given the close historical connection between Spain and Quito, pristiños have become a beloved festive treat in Ecuadorian households, each adding their own unique touch to the shape and flavor.

About pristiños

Together with ponche, pristiños are served around Christmas here in Ecuador. Pristiños or Christmas fritters, with syrup,  are a tradition mainly in the capital city, Quito. Pristiños are sweet fritters, that are somehow similar to the buñuelos, but with a stronger taste due to the focus on the flavor of the dough.

Another beloved Ecuadorian treat are buñuelos, also something we recommend you taste.

Traditionally they are made with the shape of a crown, but this can vary depending on who is preparing them.

For some pristiños are a bit similar to another traditional dessert called buñuelos, and to the bugnes from France.

You can try to make pristiños at home by following this recipe. 

If you are in South America, I would love to see your pictures.

What do they taste like

This is a dessert served around Christmas and covered with piloncillo syrup. Therefore the flavors will be a combination of the dough, the syrup, and sometimes some notes of cinnamon.

A delicious way to finish Christmas Eve is by enjoying these traditional fritters.

How and where to eat pristiños

As mentioned before, these tasty fritters are commonly served together with piloncillo syrup or miel de panela,  but I just found out that there are people who enjoy them with dulce de higos.

You can find this dessert for sale in restaurants in Quito around the Christmas season.

Conclusion

Pristiños, with their golden, crispy texture and sweet syrup, are a cherished part of Ecuador’s Christmas traditions. Their deep-rooted history and connection to Spain add an extra layer of cultural richness to this festive delight. Whether crown-shaped or otherwise, pristiños continue to bring families together during the holiday season, symbolizing the warmth and joy of Christmas in Ecuador.

Make sure to delight your palate with some pristiños when you visit Downtown Quito.

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Have you tasted ponche? Leave your comment below!

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