Introduction
This delicious recipe for sweet chocolate bollitos is a beloved tradition in Samaná, Dominican Republic. Instead of baking, the bollitos are boiled directly in hot chocolate milk, creating a warm, comforting treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
The combination of rich chocolate, aromatic spices, and soft dough balls makes this dish a true taste of Caribbean home cooking.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
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2 pounds of flour
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1/4 cup powdered milk
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Spices: cinnamon and allspice (4 small sticks and 10 whole berries)
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3 tablespoons chocolate
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2 tablespoons vanilla
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1 cup sugar
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1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
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Water or milk for boiling
Note: Quantities can be adjusted depending on how thick you want the chocolate milk.
Preparation
1. Prepare the dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour, powdered milk, sugar, salt, and spices (cinnamon and allspice). Add vanilla and knead until you have a smooth, pliable dough.
2. Shape the bollitos
Take small portions of dough and roll them into small balls, about the size of a walnut or slightly smaller.
3. Prepare the chocolate milk
In a saucepan, heat milk (or water + milk) with the chocolate and a little sugar. Stir until smooth and aromatic.
4. Boil the bollitos
Gently drop the dough balls into the hot chocolate milk. Boil until the bollitos are cooked through, soft, and slightly puffy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Serve warm
Serve immediately in cups or bowls, making sure each portion has both chocolate milk and soft bollitos. This dish is perfect for cozy breakfasts or family gatherings.
Tips and Recommendations
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Use freshly grated chocolate for the richest flavor, or high-quality cocoa powder.
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Adjust sugar depending on your taste and how sweet the chocolate is.
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The cinnamon and allspice give the dish its signature Caribbean aroma.
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You can make smaller bollitos for kids or larger ones for a heartier dessert.
Cultural Note
Sweet chocolate bollitos are a traditional dish in Samaná, reflecting the Caribbean love for cacao and home-cooked comfort foods. Unlike baked buns, boiling the bollitos in chocolate milk creates a warm, soft, and indulgent treat — a perfect example of Dominican culinary creativity.
