Colombian Arepas with Dairy Foods (Milk, Cheese, Butter)

These easy homemade arepas with real dairy foods are made with just a few simple ingredients—pre-cooked cornmeal, milk, water, and butter. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they’re perfect with cheese, eggs, avocado, or your favorite savory toppings. Ready in under 50 minutes, this versatile arepas recipe is great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

A Note on Incorporating Dairy Foods

For lactose-intolerant individuals, lactose-free milk and cheese work just fine in this recipe!

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PREP TIME: 20 minutes

COOK TIME: 30 minutes

SERVINGS: 6-8

TOTAL TIME: 50 minutes

Ingredients

2 cups pre-cooked white or yellow cornmeal

1 ½ cups warm water

1 cup of milk

1 tsp salt

1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra flavor)

Optional: grated cheese (mozzarella or queso fresco)

Notes

Don’t use regular cornmeal—make sure it’s precooked masarepa, not corn flour or masa harina.

Dough too dry? Add a bit more water or milk. Too wet? Add a little more cornmeal.

I hope you enjoy making this delicious family recipe. And make sure you check out the recipe reel I made on my Instagram account.

Besitos,

Luisa

Recipe courtesy of Luisa Hammett of Peaches to Pearls.

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Instructions

Mix the dough:

• In a large bowl, combine warm water, milk, and salt. Slowly add in the cornmeal while stirring with your hands or a spoon.

• Once incorporated, knead until you get a soft, smooth dough that doesn't stick to your hands.

• If you want cheesy arepas, mix in ½ -1 cup of grated cheese at this stage.

Shape the arepas:

• Divide the dough into 6–8 equal portions.

• Roll into balls, then flatten into discs about ½ inch thick.

Cook the arepas:

• Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.

• Cook the arepas for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and slightly crispy.

4. Optional — Finish in the oven:

• For fluffier insides, you can transfer the cooked arepas to a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–10 minutes.

5. Serve warm:

• Serve plain or with butter, cheese, eggs, or even topped with avocado or hogao (Colombian tomato-onion sauce).

Dairy foods elevate any cultural dish.