Venezuelan Cachapas (Corn Pancakes)

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Golden, crispy, and bursting with sweet corn flavor, Venezuelan Cachapas are one of the most beloved street foods of Latin America. These warm and cheesy corn pancakes bring comforting nostalgia and irresistible flavor with every bite. Whether served hot off the griddle for breakfast, as a snack, or part of a hearty meal, cachapas fill your kitchen with warmth and joy.

What makes them special is their simple, rustic charm. Made primarily from fresh or canned corn, they offer a slightly sweet flavor balanced perfectly by the gooey, salty goodness of cheese. When folded over creamy queso de mano or mozzarella, these pancakes become melty, mouthwatering pockets of joy. It’s the kind of comfort food that doesn’t need much but always leaves a lasting impression.

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What Kind of Corn Should I Use for Cachapas?

While fresh corn cut straight off the cob is traditional and gives a fantastic texture, you can also use canned sweet corn or frozen corn for convenience. Just be sure to drain the canned corn thoroughly or thaw frozen kernels before blending. The key is to have juicy, plump kernels that blend smoothly into a thick batter.

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Ingredients for the Venezuelan Cachapas

Sweet Corn – The base and heart of cachapas. Use fresh, canned, or frozen, but make sure it’s sweet and tender.

Cornmeal (precooked or masa harina) – Helps thicken the batter and give structure to the pancakes.

Milk – Adds moisture and helps blend the batter to a smooth consistency.

Salt – Enhances the natural sweetness of the corn.

Sugar (optional) – For an extra sweet touch, depending on how sweet your corn is.

Butter or Oil – For greasing the skillet and giving a crisp golden edge.

Cheese – Queso de mano is traditional, but mozzarella or Oaxaca cheese are perfect melty options in the U.S.

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How To Make the Venezuelan Cachapas

Step 1: Blend the Batter

In a blender, combine the corn, milk, cornmeal, salt, and sugar (if using). Blend until mostly smooth but still a little chunky for texture. The batter should be thick and spoonable.

Step 2: Preheat and Grease the Skillet

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a dab of butter or brush with oil to coat the surface.

Step 3: Cook the Cachapas

Pour about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of batter onto the skillet, spreading it into a circle about 5-6 inches wide. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the edges firm up and the bottom is golden.

Step 4: Flip and Fill

Flip the pancake carefully and cook the other side for 2–4 minutes. Then add a generous handful of cheese on one half and fold it over like a taco. Let it cook for another minute so the cheese melts.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Slide the cachapa onto a plate and serve immediately while warm and cheesy.

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Serving and Storing Venezuelan Cachapas

Cachapas are best served fresh and hot, right off the skillet, when the cheese is perfectly melted. You can pair them with butter, sour cream, or even ham for an extra-rich version.

Leftovers? Let them cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat or pop them in the oven to bring back the crisp edges.

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What to Serve With Venezuelan Cachapas?

Venezuelan-Style Black Beans

Their savory depth is the perfect contrast to the sweetness of cachapas.

Fried Plantains

Sweet and caramelized, they double up the tropical comfort on your plate.

Avocado Slices

Creamy and cooling, avocado adds freshness to each cheesy bite.

Grilled Meats

Chicken, steak, or pork make this street snack feel like a full dinner.

Fresh Salsa or Guasacaca

Add a bright, tangy kick to balance out the richness.

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Want More Latin-Inspired Recipes?

If these corn pancakes hit the spot, you’ll love these flavor-packed dishes from our kitchen:

• Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce
• Chicken Spinach and Mushroom – A Comforting One-Pan Delight
• Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes
• Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight
• Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this golden corn pancake recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s ready when you’re craving something warm and melty.

Gave it a twist with spicy cheese or tucked in some pulled pork? Let us know in the comments how you made it your own!

Need more inspiration? Follow along on Pinterest at Savor Queen for daily recipes and ideas straight from the heart of the kitchen.

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