Delicious Mexican desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth
It´s easy to find a Mexican dessert that will please everyone, because each one is great tasting.
Mexican desserts aren't the first thing that leap to mind when thinking of Mexican cuisine. But given some of the outrageously delicious possibilities, maybe it should be. Here's a sample that should convince anyone.
Are you ready to embark on a sweet and exciting journey through the world of Mexican desserts? Prepare to indulge your taste buds in a vibrant array of flavors, textures, and traditions that will leave you craving more. From the creamy tres leches cake to the crispy Churros and the refreshing Paletas, Mexican desserts have something for everyone. So let’s dive into the rich history, international influences, and mouthwatering recipes that make these treats truly unforgettable.
A sampling of a Mexican dessert
Explore the captivating history and diverse flavors of Mexican desserts, from tres leches cake to fried ice cream!
Indulge in classic recipes like churros & flan or exciting variations like dulce de leche brownies.
Pair your sweet treats with traditional beverages such as Mexican hot chocolate & horchata for an extra layer of flavor!
A journey through Mexican desserts
Mexican desserts offer an incredible and unique glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, including authentic Mexican desserts and diverse dessert options that have a captivating history. From the roots of Mexican sweets in Aztec and Mayan cultures to the international influences of Spanish, French, and African cuisine, Mexican desserts have evolved into a deliciously varied selection of treats that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and adding a touch of sweetness to any meal. Whether you’re craving a delicious mexican dessert like tres leches cake or a cool and refreshing dessert like Fried ice cream, the world of Mexican desserts has it all.
Dessert presentations and flavors vary depending on the region, making the exploration of Mexican desserts even more fascinating. The desserts of Guadalajara have a distinct flavor. Locals add lemon juice, molasses, raisins and anise to make them special. In tropical south Mexico, banana is the staple dessert ingredient, while in Oaxaca, puddings are flavored with pineapples and chickpeas. With so many enticing options to discover, it’s no wonder that Mexican desserts have become a favorite choice for many people around the world.
The roots of Mexican sweets
The exciting roots of Mexican sweets can be traced back to the Aztec and Mayan cultures, where the use of native ingredients like maize, beans, fruits, and herbs played a significant role in the creation of unique and flavorful desserts. Maize, an essential part of Mexican cuisine, was used to make delicious stand-alone snacks or sweet puddings that are still enjoyed today. Other ingredients used in Mexican desserts include cashews, peanuts, honey, salt, chili peppers, sweet potatoes, chocolate, cilantro, epazote, nopal cactus, limes, oranges, pineapples, mangoes, papayas, coconuts, and almond seeds, showcasing the vast array of flavors and textures found in these delightful treats.
The Spanish conquerors played an important role in the evolution of Mexican desserts, substituting sugar and vanilla for spices in chocolate drinks, thus transforming them into the delicious treats we know and love today. As Mexican cuisine continued to evolve, so did its desserts, incorporating new ingredients and techniques from various cultures, resulting in a truly diverse and mouthwatering selection of sweet treats for everyone to enjoy.
International influences on Mexican desserts
The Spanish, French, and African contributions have excitedly influenced Mexican desserts, adding new flavors and techniques to the already diverse selection of treats. The Spanish influence can be seen in desserts such as flan, churros, and Mexican sweet bread, which have become staple items in Mexican cuisine. The French influence can be found in desserts like crepes, éclairs, and macarons, adding a touch of elegance and refinement to the dessert menu. And the immense impact of Afro-Mexicans on Mexican desserts cannot be understated, as they have introduced delicious ingredients like plantains, peanuts, and tropical fruits such as taro, malanga, cassava, and sweet potatoes.
These international influences have resulted in a fascinating fusion of flavors, making Mexican desserts a true testament to the country’s rich cultural history and culinary prowess. From the ancient roots of Aztec and Mayan sweets to the contemporary twists on traditional recipes, Mexican desserts continue to delight and satisfy the palates of people around the globe.
Classic Mexican dessert recipes
Now that we’ve explored the rich history and international influences on Mexican desserts, it’s time to dive into the classic recipes that have become beloved staples of Mexican cuisine. These delicious treats, including tres leches cake, Churros, Flan, Mexican Wedding Cookies, and Arroz Con Leche, are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a sweet treat at the end of a long day. Each of these classic Mexican dessert recipes has a fascinating history, as well as unique variations that allow you to get creative in the kitchen and truly make these treats your own.
So, let’s embark on a culinary adventure as we explore the delectable world of classic Mexican dessert recipes. From the creamy goodness of the tres leches cake to the crispy delight of Churros and the smooth richness of Flan, these desserts are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico with every bite.
Tres leches cake
Indulge in the creamy and delicious tres leches cake, a sponge cake soaked in three types of milk and topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. This classic Mexican dessert is believed to have originated in the 19th century in Mexico and has since become a favorite treat for people all around the world. The tres leches cake recipe requires four types of milk for the filling and topping, including evaporated milk, condensed milk, whole milk, and heavy cream, resulting in a rich and moist cake that is truly irresistible.
To prepare tres leches cake, start by baking a sponge cake, then soaking it in a mixture of the three types of milk. Finally, top the cake with whipped cream and fresh fruit, such as strawberries, for a vibrant and delicious presentation.
There are also exciting variations of tres leches cake, such as using different types of milk like coconut milk or almond milk, allowing you to experiment with flavors and textures to create your perfect dessert.
Churros
Enjoy crispy and sweet Churros, a popular Mexican treat often served with a hot chocolate or dulce de leche dipping sauce. Churros are believed to have originated in Spain, but they have become a beloved dessert and snack in Mexico. The Churros recipe creates a fried dough pastry-based snack that is covered in cinnamon and sugar, making them a perfect treat for satisfying your sweet tooth.
To make homemade churros, you’ll need to prepare a dough made from flour, sugar, and eggs, then pipe it into long, thin strips and fry them until golden brown. Once cooked, roll the churros in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, then serve them warm with your choice of dipping sauce, such as hot chocolate or dulce de leche.
There are also numerous variations of Churros, including those served with different dipping sauces or filled with caramel or vanilla cream, allowing you to customize your churro experience to fit your tastes.
Flan
Savor the smooth and rich Flan, a Latin-inspired custard dessert with a caramel topping that’s both easy to make and delightful to eat. Flan is believed to have originated in ancient Rome, but it has become a popular dessert in Mexican cuisine as well. The Flan recipe is made with eggs, milk, and sugar and is often flavored with vanilla or cinnamon, creating a custard-like dessert that melts in your mouth.
To prepare Flan, start by making a caramel sauce by heating sugar and water in a saucepan, then pour the caramel into a baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix together eggs, milk, sugar, and your choice of flavoring, such as vanilla or cinnamon, then pour the mixture over the caramel in the baking dish. Bake the Flan in a water bath until it is set, then let it cool before inverting it onto a plate and serving it with the caramel sauce.
There are also exciting variations of Flan, such as adding different spices like nutmeg or cardamom, allowing you to experiment with flavors and create your perfect dessert.
Mexican wedding cookies
Discover the delicate and nutty Mexican Wedding Cookies, a shortbread cookie made with almonds and powdered sugar, perfect for special occasions or holiday celebrations. These small, round cookies are believed to have originated in the 16th century in Mexico and are made with butter, sugar, and nuts, often flavored with cinnamon or vanilla. Mexican Wedding Cookies may not be a typical wedding delicacy, however, they are widely eaten during Christmas. They have become synonymous with the holiday season in many parts of the world.
To make Mexican Wedding Cookies, start by creaming together butter and sugar, then adding flour and your choice of nuts, such as almonds or pecans. Mix the dough together, then form it into small balls and bake them until golden brown. Once the cookies have cooled, roll them in powdered sugar, creating a sweet and delicate treat that is perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Mexican Wedding Cookies can also be flavored with different spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, allowing you to customize your cookies to fit your tastes.
Arroz con leche
Warm up with arroz con leche, a comforting and sweet Mexican rice pudding made with milk, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and cinnamon. This traditional Mexican dessert is believed to have originated in the 16th century in Spain and has become a favorite treat in Mexican cuisine. The Arroz Con Leche recipe requires rice, milk (2% or whole milk), sugar, and cinnamon, creating a delicious and warming dessert that is perfect for enjoying on a chilly evening.
To make arroz con leche, start by bringing milk, sugar, and cinnamon to a boil in a pot, then add the rice and reduce the heat to low. Simmer the rice for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is cooked and the mixture has thickened. Once the rice is cooked, add the evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk, stirring until combined.
Serve the Arroz Con Leche warm or cold, topped with cinnamon and enjoy its comforting and delicious flavors. There are also exciting variations of Arroz Con Leche, such as adding different spices like nutmeg or cardamom, or using different types of milk, such as coconut milk or almond milk, allowing you to experiment with flavors and create your perfect arroz con leche.
Creative twists on traditional Mexican desserts
Sometimes, it’s fun to get creative in the kitchen and put a unique twist on traditional Mexican desserts. From Fried ice cream to Churro Cheesecake Bars and Dulce de Leche Brownies, these innovative takes on classic favorites are sure to impress your guests and add a touch of excitement to your dessert menu. Each of these creative twists offers a new flavor combination or texture, making them a delightful surprise for your taste buds and a fun way to explore the world of Mexican desserts.
So, why not try your hand at making one of these creative twists on traditional Mexican desserts? Whether you’re looking for a unique and delicious treat to serve at a party or simply want to indulge in something new and exciting, these innovative dessert recipes are sure to inspire you and leave your taste buds craving more.
Fried ice cream
Experience the crunchy and creamy fried ice cream, a dessert that combines the best of both worlds with a crispy outer shell and a cold, sweet center. This unique dessert is made by coating ice cream balls in a cornflake mixture, then deep frying them until the outer shell is golden and crispy. The resulting treat is a delightful combination of textures and temperatures, making it a truly memorable dessert experience.
To make fried ice cream, you’ll need corn flakes cereal, butter, cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla ice cream. Start by combining the corn flakes cereal, butter, cinnamon, and sugar in a bowl, then form the mixture into small balls and freeze them. Once the balls are frozen, dip them in beaten egg whites and roll them in the corn flakes mixture. Finally, deep fry the balls until golden brown and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
This exciting twist on a traditional ice cream dessert is sure to impress your guests and become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Churro cheesecake bars
Try the irresistible Churro Cheesecake Bars, a fusion of classic churros and creamy cheesecake that is perfect for impressing guests or indulging on your own. These flaky and delicious bars are covered in cinnamon and sugar and filled with a sweet cream cheese layer, making them a delightful treat that combines the best elements of two favorite desserts.
To make Churro Cheesecake Bars, preheat your oven to 350°F and mix together sugar and cinnamon in a medium bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together cream cheese, crescent roll dough or sheets, and butter. Spread the cream cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, then let the bars cool before serving.
The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and cream cheese creates a mouthwatering dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more.
Dulce de leche brownies
Indulge in the decadent Dulce de Leche Brownies, a rich and gooey dessert that combines chocolate brownies with a sweet and creamy caramel filling. These brownies are perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings while adding a unique twist to a classic dessert. The dulce de leche brownie recipe requires butter, chocolate (bittersweet or semisweet), cocoa powder, eggs, sugar, vanilla, salt, and flour, resulting in a rich and moist brownie that is truly irresistible.
To make Dulce de Leche Brownies, start by preheating your oven to 350°F and melting the butter and chocolate together in a double boiler. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy, then add the melted chocolate mixture and mix until combined. In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan and pour the batter into the pan, then bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the brownies cool completely before adding the dulce de leche filling, creating a heavenly dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
Refreshing Mexican frozen treats
Cool down with refreshing Mexican frozen treats, perfect for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser after a spicy meal. From the unique and fruity Nieve de garrafa to the colorful and flavorful Paletas and the tangy and sweet mangonada, these frozen treats offer a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of Mexico while keeping your taste buds refreshed. Each of these treats is made with fresh fruit, ice, and a variety of other ingredients, resulting in a cooling and delicious experience that is perfect for any occasion.
So, why not try your hand at making one of these refreshing Mexican frozen treats? Whether you’re looking for a cool and delicious dessert to serve at a summer party or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat after a long day, these frozen delights are sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Nieve de garrafa
Discover the unique and fruity Nieve de Garrafa, a dairy-free Mexican sorbet made with fresh fruit, ice, sugar, and salt, available in a variety of flavors. This refreshing treat is made by blending together mashed fresh fruit, ice, sugar, and salt, then pouring the mixture into a bottle and freezing it until it reaches the desired consistency. Nieve de Garrafa is traditionally made with fresh, natural ingredients and nothing artificial, making it a healthy and delicious dessert option.
To make Nieve de Garrafa, you’ll need ripe mangoes, lime juice, water, chamoy sauce, and tajin seasoning. Start by dicing the mangoes and adding them to a blender, then add the lime juice, water, chamoy sauce, and tajin seasoning. Blend until smooth, then pour the mixture into a glass and top with chili powder and a tamarind straw. This exciting and refreshing dessert is perfect for enjoying on a hot summer day or as a palate cleanser after a spicy meal.
Paletas
Enjoy the colorful and flavorful Paletas, a popular Mexican ice pop made with fresh fruit, chocolate, nuts, and more, mixed with water, milk, or sweetened condensed milk. Paletas are a delicious and refreshing treat that can be enjoyed on a hot day or as a sweet dessert after a meal. The Paletas recipe can vary depending on the flavor, but some common ingredients include fresh fruit (such as strawberries, pineapple, mango, watermelon, cantaloupe), sugar or honey as a sweetener, and citrus juice for added flavor. Some variations may also include yogurt or cream for a creamy texture.
To make Paletas, start by blending together your choice of fresh fruit, sweetener, and citrus juice, then pour the mixture into ice pop molds and freeze until solid. Once the paletas are frozen, remove them from the molds and enjoy a refreshing and flavorful frozen treat that is perfect for any occasion.
With a wide variety of flavors and combinations to choose from, paletas are a versatile and delicious dessert that is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Mangonada
Spice up your dessert game with the tangy and sweet mangonada, a traditional Mexican frozen treat made with diced mangoes, chamoy sauce, lime juice, chili powder, and a tamarind straw. This delightful dessert offers a unique combination of flavors and textures, making it a fun and exciting treat for your taste buds.
To make mangonada, start by dicing the mangoes and adding them to a blender along with the lime juice, water, chamoy sauce, and tajin seasoning. Blend the mixture until smooth, then pour it into a glass and top with chili powder and a tamarind straw.
Mangonada is perfect for enjoying on a hot summer day or as a palate cleanser after a spicy meal, offering a refreshing and flavorful treat that is truly unique.
Pairing Mexican desserts with beverages
Enhance your Mexican dessert experience by pairing them with traditional beverages like Mexican Hot Chocolate and Horchata, adding an extra layer of flavor and authenticity to your meal. These delicious drinks can complement the flavors of your chosen dessert, making for a truly delightful dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying a rich and spiced Mexican hot chocolate with a plate of Churros or sipping a refreshing Horchata alongside a slice of tres leches cake, these beverage pairings will take your dessert experience to the next level.
So why not try pairing your favorite Mexican desserts with these traditional beverages? Not only will you be able to enjoy a more authentic and flavorful dining experience, but you’ll also have the opportunity to explore the rich and diverse world of Mexican cuisine in a whole new way.
Mexican hot chocolate
Warm up with a cup of rich and spiced Mexican Hot Chocolate, a perfect accompaniment to any dessert or a comforting treat on its own. This delicious drink is made with real milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, sugar, and spices such as cinnamon and cayenne powder, creating a flavorful and warming beverage that is sure to please your taste buds. Some recipes also use dark chocolate or vanilla extract, adding an extra layer of depth and flavor to the drink.
To make Mexican Hot Chocolate, simply heat your milk of choice in a saucepan, then add the cocoa powder, sugar, and spices, whisking until smooth and well combined. Pour the hot chocolate into a mug and enjoy it alongside your favorite Mexican dessert, or simply savor it on its own as a comforting and delicious treat.
Horchata
Refresh your palate with Horchata, a cinnamon-flavored drink that pairs well with a variety of Mexican desserts and adds a touch of sweetness to any occasion. This creamy and refreshing beverage is made from rice, almonds, and cinnamon, offering a flavorful and satisfying drink that can be enjoyed on its own or as a complement to your favorite dessert.
So next time you’re craving a sweet and satisfying beverage to pair with your Mexican dessert, consider trying a glass of delicious Horchata.
What´s in a Mexican desserts
In summary, Mexican desserts offer a rich and diverse world of flavors, textures, and traditions to explore and enjoy. From the ancient roots of Aztec and Mayan sweets to the international influences of Spanish, French, and African cuisine, these delightful treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and adding a touch of sweetness to any meal. Whether you’re indulging in a classic recipe like tres leches cake or trying a creative twist like fried ice cream, there’s a Mexican dessert for everyone to enjoy. So why not embark on a delicious journey through the world of Mexican desserts and discover the mouthwatering flavors that await you?
Frequently asked questions about desserts from Mexico
What is the official dessert of Mexico?
Surprise! Mexico doesn’t have an official dessert due to its diversity of cultures and regions.
Get ready to be tantalized by a variety of mouth-watering delights!
What are some of the most popular sweets or desserts in Mexico?
Mexican desserts are a must-try for any sweet tooth - from the classic Churros to the tres leches cake, there’s something to tantalize everyone’s taste buds!
Churros are a classic Mexican dessert that are deep-fried dough sticks, usually served with a chocolate dipping sauce. They are crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, and are a great snack or dessert.
Tres Leches cake is delicious.
What's a good dessert to go with tacos?
Satisfy your sweet tooth with one of these delicious taco-pairing desserts - cookies, churros, flan or even a taco-inspired ice cream sundae! Whatever you choose, it’s sure to be a tasty end to your taco night.
What is a typical Spanish dessert?
Craving something sweet? Try a typical Spanish dessert like flan, natillas, arroz con leche, or turron for an indulgent treat!
What are the roots of Mexican sweets?
Mexican sweets have their roots in Aztec and Mayan cultures, featuring native ingredients like maize, beans, fruits, and herbs - a tantalizing combination to treat your sweet tooth!
These ingredients have been used for centuries to create delicious treats that are still enjoyed today. From churros to paletas, Mexican sweets are a unique and flavorful way to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re looking for something to snack on or a snack.
Which are the most popular Mexican desserts?
Flan, a creamy caramel custard dessert that is often flavored with vanilla. It's a staple in Mexican cuisine and is loved for its smooth texture.
Churros, the deep-fried dough pastries that are usually dusted with sugar and cinnamon. They are often served with chocolate sauce for dipping.
Tres leches cake, a sponge cake soaked in a mixture of three kinds of milk: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. It's incredibly moist and rich.
Arroz con leche, a comforting rice pudding made with rice, milk, cinnamon, and sugar. It's often garnished with raisins or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Cajeta, a thick and sweet caramel-like sauce made from goat's milk. It's often used as a topping for pancakes, ice cream, or pastries.
Pastel de elote, a corn cake that is sweet rather than savory, often made with fresh corn, butter, and sugar.
Cocadas, coconut candies that are often baked until they are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. Served as dessert or as a sweet with coffee.
Atole, a hot beverage made from masa (corn dough), water, and flavorings like vanilla, cinnamon, and chocolate. It's often enjoyed with tamales or as a dessert on its own.
Pan de muerto, a sweet bread traditionally made for the Day of the Dead celebrations. It's often flavored with anise and orange zest.
Buñuelos, fried dough balls or flat discs that are sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon. They are a popular treat during Christmas and New Year's celebrations.