When you think of Mexican cuisine, your mind might go straight to tacos, enchiladas, and guacamole, but the desserts are just as remarkable. Mexican desserts are known for their rich flavors and unique ingredients that offer a sweet ending to any meal. These treats combine traditional elements like cinnamon, chocolate, and fruit to create delightful sweets that you won’t easily forget.
Exploring Mexican desserts gives you a taste of the country’s vibrant culinary heritage. Each dessert tells a story of its cultural roots and years of tradition. From creamy flan to crunchy churros, these desserts provide a satisfying experience for your taste buds.
1) Churros
Churros are one of the most loved Mexican desserts. They are long, crispy sticks of fried dough. To make churros, you start by heating oil in a deep pot or deep fryer.
The dough for churros is simple. You mix water, vanilla extract, salt, and butter in a saucepan. Heat this mixture until it boils.
After boiling, remove it from the heat and stir in flour. This forms a dough ball. Pipe the dough into hot oil using a pastry bag.
Each churro should be about 6 inches long. Cut the dough with scissors and fry each piece until it is golden brown. This usually takes about 1.5 minutes per side.
After frying, place the churros on a paper towel to drain excess oil. While still warm, roll them in cinnamon sugar.
Churros are often enjoyed with a cup of hot chocolate for dipping. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. This makes them a perfect treat at any time.
2) Tres Leches Cake
Tres Leches Cake is a classic Mexican dessert that you will love. The name means “three milks” in Spanish, and it refers to the three types of milk used in the recipe: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream.
To start, you will bake a simple sponge cake. You can use a preheated oven set to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Beat egg whites to form soft peaks and fold them into the batter for a light, airy texture.
Once the cake is baked and cooled, it’s time to add the milk mixture. Poke holes all over the cake using a fork. This helps the milk soak into the cake. Mix the three milks in a bowl and pour the mixture evenly over the cake.
Let the cake sit so it can absorb the milk. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results. The cake becomes moist and rich, with the milk soaking through every bite.
Before serving, you can add a layer of whipped cream on top. It adds a nice texture and flavor contrast. Some like to garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or fresh fruit.
3) Flan
Flan is one of the most beloved Mexican desserts. This creamy caramel custard is a staple in many Mexican households. The dessert has a rich, smooth texture that many find irresistible.
To make flan, you start with a caramel sauce. This is made by melting sugar until it turns golden brown. The caramel is then poured into a mold to cool and harden.
Next, you blend ingredients like sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla. Once the mixture is smooth, you pour it over the hardened caramel in the mold.
The flan is then baked in a water bath. This helps it cook evenly without cracking. After baking, you let the flan cool before refrigerating it.
When you’re ready to serve, you invert the flan onto a plate, letting the caramel sauce flow over the top. The combination of the silky custard and the rich caramel makes for a delectable treat.
Flan can be flavored in various ways. Some recipes include orange peel or even cream cheese for added richness. The variations are endless, but the classic version remains a favorite.
4) Sopapillas
Sopapillas are a tasty Mexican treat, often enjoyed as a dessert or snack. These light and puffy pastries are usually fried until golden brown.
You start by making a simple dough with flour, baking powder, salt, and water. Some recipes call for shortening or melted butter to add richness. Knead the dough until smooth and let it rest for about 20 minutes.
Roll out the rested dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into small squares or triangles. Carefully drop the pieces into hot oil, ideally around 375°F, and fry until they puff up and turn golden.
Once fried, let the sopapillas drain on paper towels. To serve, you can dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey. Some people like to add cinnamon and sugar for extra flavor. They’re best enjoyed warm.
Sopapillas are versatile; you can eat them plain or with a variety of toppings. This makes them a popular choice for many occasions, whether it’s a family gathering or a casual snack. Their simplicity and delicious taste make them a favorite in Mexican cuisine.
5) Arroz con Leche
Arroz con Leche is a classic Mexican rice pudding that combines simple ingredients to create a sweet and comforting dessert. You will need rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. It’s easy to make and loved by many.
To start, cook your rice in water along with a cinnamon stick. Once the rice is tender, mix in whole milk, condensed milk, and a bit of sugar.
Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to ensure the mixture thickens properly. After about 20-30 minutes, the rice will absorb the milk, and the pudding will become creamy.
Some variations may include adding vanilla extract or raisins for extra flavor. You can serve it warm or cold, depending on your preference.
6) Conchas
Conchas, also known as Mexican sweet bread, are a delightful treat. They are named “concha” because the topping resembles a shell. This topping is made from a sweet, crumbly mixture, typically flavored with vanilla or chocolate.
To make conchas, start by heating milk to around 105°F-110°F. Mix the warm milk with yeast and a bit of sugar. Let this mixture sit until it becomes bubbly.
Prepare your dough by combining flour, sugar, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Knead until smooth, then let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size.
For the topping, mix sugar, flour, and butter until it becomes crumbly. Flatten pieces of the mixture and place them over the dough balls.
Use a knife to score the topping to create the signature shell pattern. This step is crucial for that classic concha look.
After assembling, let the shaped dough rise again. Preheat your oven to 325°F and bake for about 20 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
Finally, let your conchas cool before enjoying. They make an excellent companion for coffee or hot chocolate, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
7) Buñuelos
Buñuelos are a popular Mexican dessert, especially during holidays like Christmas. They are thin, crispy treats made from simple ingredients like flour, baking powder, and salt.
To make buñuelos, you start by mixing the dry ingredients in a bowl. Then add wet ingredients like warm water, eggs, and melted butter. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic.
Next, divide the dough into small balls and roll each one out into a thin circle, much like a tortilla. Pre-cook these dough circles on a hot skillet for about 10 seconds on each side.
Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350ºF (175ºC). Carefully place the pre-cooked dough disks into the hot oil. Fry until both sides are golden brown.
Once fried, you can sprinkle the buñuelos with cinnamon sugar for additional flavor. Serve them warm and enjoy the delightful crunch.
Buñuelos can be enjoyed on their own or with a drizzle of syrup. This simple, traditional treat is a favorite for many and brings joy to any festive occasion.
8) Capirotada
Capirotada is a traditional Mexican bread pudding enjoyed during Lent. It combines simple ingredients like bread, piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar), cinnamon, and cloves.
First, you need to create a syrup. In a pot, mix water, piloncillo, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer until the piloncillo dissolves and the syrup thickens.
Next, prepare the bread. Slice bolillos or any crusty bread about 1/3 inch thick. Butter each slice and toast them in the oven until they are lightly browned and dry.
Layer the toasted bread in a baking dish. Alternate layers of bread with raisins, almonds, and cheese. Pour the syrup over the layers, making sure everything is well-coated.
Bake the Capirotada in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until it is heated through and the flavors meld together. This usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes.
This dessert often varies by region and family tradition. Some versions include nuts, seeds, or different spices. Capirotada offers a rich, sweet, and spiced treat that reflects Mexican culture and culinary history.
9) Empanadas de Calabaza
Empanadas de Calabaza are a delicious Mexican dessert made from pumpkin. These pumpkin-filled pastries are a favorite during the fall season and special holidays.
To make Empanadas de Calabaza, start by cooking the pumpkin. Place the pumpkin pieces in a saucepan with piloncillo, a type of Mexican brown sugar, and water. Add a cinnamon stick for extra flavor.
Once the pumpkin is tender, remove the cinnamon stick and mash the pumpkin. Add ground cinnamon, anise, and clove to the mashed pumpkin for a warm and spiced filling.
For the dough, roll out pie crust and cut out small circles. Place a teaspoon of pumpkin filling in the center of each circle. Fold the circles in half and press the edges with a fork to seal them.
Brush the empanadas with a lightly beaten egg before baking. This gives them a golden and crispy exterior. Bake the empanadas until they are golden brown.
Enjoy warm Empanadas de Calabaza with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. They are perfect for sharing with family and friends.
10) Mexican Hot Chocolate
Mexican hot chocolate is a delicious and warming drink that stands out for its unique blend of flavors. You use 100% unsweetened cocoa powder mixed with cinnamon, which adds a comforting spice. Sometimes, there’s a hint of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
To prepare, you combine cocoa powder, milk, and the spices, then heat until everything is well-mixed. The result is rich and creamy without being too sweet. This drink is perfect for cold evenings or as a tasty treat for friends and family.
For an extra special touch, you can top your Mexican hot chocolate with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. This makes it even more indulgent. Each sip gives you a delightful combination of creamy, spicy, and chocolaty goodness.
Whether you’re sitting by a fire or enjoying a quiet moment, Mexican hot chocolate offers a cozy way to warm up and treat yourself.
11) Cocadas
Cocadas are a popular Mexican coconut candy known for their sweet, chewy texture. These treats are a simple mix of shredded coconut, sugar, and eggs. You often find them sold at street markets and fairs.
To make cocadas, combine shredded coconut with sweetened condensed milk. You can add extras like dulce de leche or chopped nuts for added flavor.
Form small balls or use a mini muffin tin to shape them. Bake the mixture until the top is golden brown. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes in a 350°F oven.
Once baked, let the cocadas cool on a wire rack. You can then place them in mini paper liners for serving. They are perfect for gifts or special occasions.
These candies are loved for their rich, coconut flavor and satisfying texture. Try making cocadas at home to experience a classic Mexican dessert.
12) Paletas
Paletas are a popular Mexican dessert, especially in the summer. These are essentially popsicles made from a mix of fruits, juices, and sometimes milk or cream.
What makes paletas stand out is their range of flavors. From tangy mango and refreshing watermelon to creamy coconut and strawberries, there’s a paleta for every taste.
Making paletas at home is simple. Start with a base of sweetened condensed milk, regular milk, or just fruit juice. Add your choice of chopped fruits. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, insert sticks, and freeze for a few hours.
You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar, depending on the natural sweetness of the fruits you choose. This makes paletas a versatile and fun dessert to experiment with.
13) Pastel de Elote
Pastel de Elote, also known as Mexican sweet corn cake, is a popular dessert in Mexican cuisine. It is made with fresh corn kernels, which give it a delightful texture and sweet flavor.
You start by preheating your oven to around 350°F. Use a bundt cake pan or regular cake pan, greased and floured to prevent sticking.
In a large bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Add both brown and white sugar, then mix well. Next, add eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Blend fresh corn kernels with condensed milk and whole milk. This mixture should be smooth. Combine it with the butter and sugar mixture, blending until well mixed.
In a separate bowl, mix flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, blending until smooth. Pour the batter into your prepared pan.
Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy Pastel de Elote warm or at room temperature.
This dessert is perfect for family gatherings or as a sweet treat after a meal.
14) Carlota de Limón
Carlota de Limón is a favorite Mexican dessert known for its refreshing lime flavor. This icebox cake is simple to make and requires no baking, making it perfect for hot days.
To prepare Carlota de Limón, you need lime juice, evaporated milk, condensed milk, vanilla extract, and Maria cookies. Mix the milks and lime juice until smooth and thick.
In a dish, start with a layer of the milk mixture, then a layer of cookies. Repeat until you fill the dish, ending with the creamy mixture on top. Some recipes also add lime zest for extra tanginess.
Let the dessert chill in the fridge for a few hours. This helps the flavors meld and the dessert to firm up nicely. When ready, serve it cold, possibly with a garnish of whipped cream or more lime zest.
Carlota de Limón is delicious and easy, making it a popular choice among those who love a citrusy treat.
15) Dulce de Leche
Dulce de Leche is a sweet treat loved by many. It is made by slowly heating sweetened milk to create a thick, caramel-like sauce. This process gives it a rich, creamy texture and a deep caramel flavor that is simply irresistible.
You can enjoy Dulce de Leche in many ways. Spread it on toast, drizzle it over ice cream, or use it as a filling for cakes and pastries. It adds a sweet, creamy touch to any dessert.
Making Dulce de Leche at home is straightforward. Pour sweetened condensed milk into a baking dish, cover it with foil, and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water. Bake at 425°F until it turns golden brown and caramelized.
Whether you use it for baking or just enjoy it by the spoonful, Dulce de Leche is a versatile and delightful addition to your dessert repertoire.
16) Camotes
Camotes, also known as Mexican candied sweet potatoes, are a delicious and traditional dessert. They are often prepared using a distinctive blend of spices and piloncillo, which is unrefined cane sugar with a deep, rich flavor.
To make camotes, you will need sweet potatoes, piloncillo, cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and water. Begin by peeling and cutting the sweet potatoes into large chunks.
Next, place the sweet potatoes in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add enough water to cover them slightly. Include the piloncillo, cinnamon, star anise, and cloves.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for approximately 50 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the piloncillo dissolves and coats the sweet potatoes well.
Once the sweet potatoes are tender and coated with the sweet syrup, they are ready to serve. Camotes are typically enjoyed warm and can be a comforting treat, especially during cooler months.
This dessert combines simple ingredients to create a rich, flavorful experience unique to Mexican cuisine.
17) Alegrías
Alegrías are a beloved traditional Mexican candy that brings joy with every bite. Made primarily from amaranth, a nutritious and ancient grain, these treats are both tasty and wholesome.
To create Alegrías, you mix popped amaranth with a sweet syrup made from piloncillo or brown sugar. This syrup acts as the binder, holding everything together.
Often, you can add other ingredients like toasted pumpkin seeds, peanuts, raisins, or pecans. These additions provide extra texture and flavor, making the Alegrías even more delicious.
Once mixed, the amaranth and syrup combination is pressed into a mold or tray. After it sets and hardens, you can cut it into bars or bite-sized pieces.
Alegrías are perfect for a healthy snack and are enjoyed by both kids and adults. They offer a nice balance of sweetness and crunchiness. You might find them decorated with dried fruits or nuts, adding to their visual appeal.
These treats are not only tasty but also a part of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage. Making them at home can be a fun and rewarding experience.
18) Jericallas
Jericallas are a traditional Mexican dessert from Guadalajara. They are often described as a mix between flan and crème brûlée. Their creamy texture and caramelized top make them unique and delicious.
To make Jericallas, you’ll need milk, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. The process involves simmering milk with cinnamon and vanilla until it infuses the flavors.
Next, you’ll mix this strained milk with eggs and sugar. This mixture is then poured into small ramekins.
The ramekins are placed in a water bath and baked. This slow cooking method ensures a smooth texture. The dessert is done when its top turns a golden brown.
Jericallas are best served chilled. They offer a simple yet delightful way to enjoy Mexican flavors.
19) Nieves de Garrafa
Nieves de Garrafa is a traditional Mexican sorbet. It is made with fresh, natural ingredients like fruit juice, water, and sugar. This dessert is handcrafted and churned by hand.
The name “nieves de garrafa” comes from the Spanish word for “snow” (nieves) and “jar” (garrafa).
You might find flavors like lime, mango, and sweet corn. The texture is smooth and icy.
Nieves de Garrafa is often sold by street vendors in Mexico. They use large, wooden barrels filled with ice to keep it cold.
One of the best things about this dessert is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy equipment to make it.
Mix fruit juice with sugar until dissolved. Pour over crushed ice and churn by hand until it becomes icy.
This dessert offers a refreshing taste, perfect for hot days. Try it if you want a cool, delicious treat from Mexico.
20) Tequila Lime Pie
Tequila Lime Pie is a refreshing, tangy dessert perfect for any occasion. This pie combines the zesty flavor of lime with a hint of tequila. The crust is typically made from vanilla wafers and macadamia nuts, finely ground and mixed with melted butter.
To prepare the filling, you will need sweetened condensed milk, fresh lime juice, lime zest, egg yolks, tequila, and triple sec. These ingredients come together to create a smooth and creamy filling with a bright, citrusy flavor.
Once the crust is pressed into a pie pan and baked briefly, you’ll pour in the lime mixture. After baking, let the pie cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight to set.
Serving it chilled enhances the flavors and makes it a delightful treat on a warm day. Garnish with lime slices or whipped cream if desired. This pie is a fun twist on traditional lime desserts and adds a bit of a kick with the tequila.
History of Mexican Desserts
Mexican desserts have a rich history that dates back to pre-colonial times and has been significantly shaped by Spanish culinary traditions. Understanding these influences offers insight into the diverse and flavorful sweets enjoyed in Mexico today.
Pre-Colonial Sweets
Before the arrival of the Spanish, the indigenous people of Mexico enjoyed various sweet treats made from local ingredients. Aztec and Maya civilizations commonly used honey, cacao, and maize to create desserts. For instance, cacao was used to make a bitter chocolate drink, which was often flavored with vanilla and chili peppers. Amaranth seeds, mixed with honey and sometimes insects, were shaped into various forms as a treat.
Fruits like papaya, guava, and mango were also used in pre-colonial desserts. These fruits were either eaten fresh or cooked with honey and other spices to create simple, yet delightful sweets. Sweet tamales, made from maize dough and filled with fruit or honey, were popular during this period. The focus on natural sweetness and locally sourced ingredients laid the groundwork for many traditional Mexican desserts still enjoyed today.
Influence of Spanish Cuisine
The Spanish conquest of Mexico brought significant changes to the culinary landscape, including the introduction of new ingredients and cooking techniques. Sugarcane, cinnamon, wheat, and domesticated animals such as cows and pigs were brought by the Spaniards, transforming Mexican cuisine. Desserts like churros, which are made from fried dough and covered in sugar and cinnamon, were introduced by the Spanish, becoming a staple in Mexican cuisine.
The colonial period also saw the creation of unique fusion desserts. For example, cajeta, a caramel made from goat’s milk, is a product of mixed Spanish and indigenous influences. European pastries like buñuelos were adapted to local tastes with the addition of indigenous spices and techniques. The introduction of convents by Spanish missionaries also played a role in the development of sweet recipes, as nuns created many traditional desserts still enjoyed today.
These historical influences have intertwined to create the diverse and rich tapestry of Mexican desserts we know today.
Common Ingredients in Mexican Desserts
Mexican desserts often showcase a rich blend of ingredients that reflect the country’s diverse cultural influences and agricultural bounty. Key ingredients include various dairy products, a variety of fruits and nuts, and an assortment of spices and flavorings.
Dairy Products
Dairy is essential in many Mexican desserts, adding creaminess and depth. Condensed milk and evaporated milk are staples, providing sweetness and a rich texture. You’ll find these in tres leches cake, a popular dessert soaked in three kinds of milk.
Mexican crema and sour cream give dishes like flan and churros a smooth, luxurious feel. Queso fresco and cream cheese may also appear in pastries, adding a mild flavor and a creamy consistency. Milk, both fresh and powdered, is often used as a base for puddings and custards.
Fruits and Nuts
Fruits add natural sweetness and complexity to Mexican desserts. Tropical fruits, such as mangoes, pineapples, and guavas, often feature in dishes like empanadas and fruit salads. Strawberries and other berries are common in sweets like fresas con crema, a mix of sliced strawberries and cream.
Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and pecans are equally important. They bring a crunchy texture to cookies, like polvorones (Mexican wedding cookies), and nutty flavor to candies and nougats. Coconut is frequently used, particularly in treats like cocadas, a type of coconut candy.
Spices and Flavorings
Mexican desserts often have a unique, aromatic profile due to the use of various spices and flavorings. Cinnamon is one of the most important, lending warmth and a spicy-sweet note to dishes like arroz con leche.
Vanilla is another crucial ingredient, commonly used in custards, cakes, and cookies. Anise, with its licorice-like flavor, appears in traditional desserts such as buñuelos. Chocolate, particularly Mexican chocolate with hints of cinnamon, enriches beverages and sweets like mole and chocolate caliente.
These ingredients not only define the flavors of Mexican desserts but also highlight the culinary traditions and history of the region.
Preparation Techniques
Mexican desserts often draw from traditional cooking methods while also incorporating modern twists. Both methods focus on using fresh ingredients and simple techniques to create flavorful sweets.
Traditional Cooking Methods
Traditional methods for making Mexican desserts often involve simple, time-tested techniques. For example, arroz con leche (rice pudding) starts by simmering rice with milk, cinnamon, and sugar until it thickens. This method retains the dessert’s creamy texture and deep flavor.
Churros are another classic dessert. The dough is typically mixed, piped into hot oil, and fried until golden brown. After frying, the churros are rolled in cinnamon sugar. The result is a crunchy outside with a soft, airy inside.
Pan Dulce or sweet bread, such as conchas, involves kneading dough, letting it rise, and then baking it. Often, these breads are topped with a sugar paste that hardens into a crumbly shell.
Modern Adaptations
Modern adaptations of Mexican desserts often simplify traditional techniques or add new ingredients for a twist. For instance, no-bake cheesecake variations of tres leches cake use pre-made crusts and fillings, reducing prep time.
Bionico, a fruit salad dessert, blends cream, yogurt, and sweetened condensed milk poured over fresh fruits. It updates a traditional recipe by adding yogurt for a healthier twist.
Another modern variant is using baking instead of frying to make treats like bunuelos. This can make the dessert lighter and less oily. Air-frying churros is another popular modern method that keeps them crispy but healthier.
