When it comes to desserts, Mexico has a reputation for being one of the sweetest countries around. From classic treats like churros and tres leches cake to innovative creations that combine traditional flavors with modern twists, Mexican dessert recipes have something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouthwatering easy desserts that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking for a quick treat after dinner or want to impress your friends and family with a show-stopping dessert, these authentic Mexican recipes are sure to hit the spot.
Churros with Chocolate Dipping Sauce
Sweet Churros with Rich Chocolate Dipping Sauce Recipe
Savor the classic Spanish treat, churros, paired with a rich and creamy chocolate dipping sauce. This indulgent combination is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Chocolate dipping sauce (see below)
Chocolate Dipping Sauce:
Ingredients:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
2. Gradually add milk to form a smooth dough.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Pipe the dough through a star tip to create churros.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. For the chocolate dipping sauce:
– In a small saucepan, heat cream and butter over low heat.
– Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the warmth of Mexican hot chocolate with the crunch of pecans and a hint of spice. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in pecans and chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Tres Leches Cake
Tres Leches Cake, a classic Latin American dessert, is known for its moist sponge cake soaked in three types of milk (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream). This recipe yields a scrumptious and refreshing treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– Evaporated milk (1 cup)
– Condensed milk (1 cup)
– Heavy cream (1 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and milk; mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and immediately poke holes all over the top with a skewer or fork.
6. In a large bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. Pour mixture evenly over the warm cake.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Flan de Leche
Flan de Leche Recipe
Flan de Leche is a rich and creamy Mexican dessert made with caramelized sugar, eggs, and sweetened condensed milk. This classic recipe yields a smooth and velvety custard topped with a layer of caramel.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and melted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and caramelizes (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and slowly pour in sweetened condensed milk while whisking constantly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Pour egg mixture into the saucepan with the caramel mixture and whisk until smooth.
6. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Refrigeration Time: at least 2 hours
Arroz con Leche (Mexican Rice Pudding)
A creamy and comforting dessert that’s a staple in Mexican cuisine, Arroz con Leche is a simple yet delicious treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and creamy.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter.
5. Let cool slightly before serving warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mexican Wedding Cookies
These tender, nutty cookies are a staple at any celebration. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you can create a batch of delicious treats to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugars and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in chopped nuts.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sopapillas with Honey
Sopapillas with Honey: A Sweet and Crunchy Treat
These crispy, fried dough balls are a popular Hispanic dessert that pairs perfectly with a drizzle of warm honey. Enjoy the perfect combination of textures and flavors in just a few simple steps.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– Honey, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the vegetable oil, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
6. Using a spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil (about 1/4 cup each).
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and puffed up.
8. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Serve warm sopapillas drizzled with honey.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (including resting time)
Fried Ice Cream with Cinnamon Sugar
This unique dessert combines the richness of ice cream with the crunch of fried coating, all wrapped up in a sweet cinnamon sugar package. Perfect for a special occasion or a fun twist on traditional desserts.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint of your favorite ice cream (we recommend a neutral flavor like vanilla)
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup of cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Cut the ice cream into 1-inch cubes and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, salt, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F.
4. Dredge the ice cream cubes in the cinnamon sugar mixture, then carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry for 10-15 seconds or until the coating is golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the fried ice cream from the oil with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 10-15 seconds per batch
Mexican Chocolate Avocado Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and decadent mousse that combines the richness of avocado with the bold flavors of Mexican chocolate. Perfect for a special occasion or a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons melted Mexican chocolate (such as Ibarra)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then mash them in a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Fold the dry ingredients into the mashed avocado until well combined.
4. Stir in heavy cream, melted chocolate, and vanilla extract.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled and garnish with whipped cream or chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (refrigeration)
Dulce de Leche Empanadas
Sweet Empanadas with Dulce de Leche Filling Recipe
Looking for a sweet treat that combines the flaky pastry of empanadas with the rich, caramel-like flavor of dulce de leche? Look no further! This recipe yields soft and chewy empanadas filled with a gooey dulce de leche filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients (below)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Filling:
– 1 cup dulce de leche (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add shortening and mix until crumbly.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into squares or use a cookie cutter to create shapes.
6. Place a spoonful of dulce de leche filling in the center of each square. Fold and press edges together to seal empanada.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Bunuelos
Discover the sweet delight of Mexican Bunuelos, crispy fried dough fritters sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. This traditional recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves sweet treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of dough into the oil (do not overcrowd).
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Sprinkle warm Bunuelos with sugar and cinnamon.
10. Serve immediately, dusting with powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajeta (Goat’s Milk Caramel) Dip with Fruit
This creamy Goat’s Milk Caramel dip is a delightful twist on traditional caramel, perfect for dipping fresh fruit or enjoying as a sweet snack. With its rich, velvety texture and subtle goat’s milk flavor, this Cajeta dip is sure to become your new favorite dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup goat’s milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Fresh fruit (such as strawberries, grapes, or pineapple), for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine goat’s milk, sugar, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and turns golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and sea salt.
4. Let cool slightly before serving with fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chocolate Tamales
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these decadent chocolate tamales that combine rich, velvety chocolate with tender masa and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Maseca corn flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 12-15 corn husks
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine corn flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add softened butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
3. Fold in chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
4. Lay a corn husk flat on a surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the mixture in the center of the husk.
5. Fold the sides over the filling and roll into a neat package, securing with a strip of corn husk or string.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients and place tamales on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Steam tamales for 45-50 minutes.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mexican Fruit Salad with Lime and Chili
A vibrant and refreshing twist on traditional fruit salad, this Mexican-inspired dish adds a burst of citrusy flavor and a touch of heat from chili peppers. Perfect for a light and satisfying snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed fruits (such as strawberries, grapes, kiwi, pineapple)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1-2 diced jalapeño peppers (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed fruits.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the lime-honey mixture over the fruit and toss gently to coat.
4. Add diced jalapeño peppers and toss again to distribute evenly.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Pastel de Elote (Mexican Corn Cake)
This classic Mexican dessert is a delightful combination of sweet corn, creamy cream, and crunchy sugar on top. Perfect for warm weather or as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup cooked corn kernels (fresh or canned)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Gradually add milk and egg, mixing until smooth.
5. Fold in cooked corn kernels and vanilla extract.
6. Pour batter into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pineapple Coconut Paletas
Coconut and pineapple come together in perfect harmony in these creamy paletas, a Mexican-inspired popsicle treat. Perfect for hot summer days or as a sweet pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut
– Fresh pineapple wedges and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, coconut cream, sugar, and salt until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Stir in heavy cream until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds or small cups.
4. Sprinkle unsweetened shredded coconut on top of each paleta.
5. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. To unmold, run the paletas under warm water for a few seconds.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Mexican Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
A twist on classic chocolate crinkles, these cookies combine the richness of Mexican chocolate with a delightful texture and flavor. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup Mexican chocolate chips (Ibarra or similar)
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in Mexican chocolate chips.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set. Cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Horchata Ice Cream
Discover the creamy and sweet fusion of traditional Mexican horchata with rich ice cream. This unique flavor combination is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to spice up their dessert game.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup cinnamon-infused water (see note)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the cinnamon-infused water and vanilla extract.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None (cooking time occurs during the churning process)
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors and traditions of Mexico with these 18 easy and delicious dessert recipes. From classic treats like churros with chocolate dipping sauce and tres leches cake, to unique twists like Mexican hot chocolate cookies and fried ice cream with cinnamon sugar, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Try your hand at making authentic empanadas filled with dulce de leche or indulge in creamy cajeta dip with fresh fruit. These mouthwatering desserts are sure to transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico, where flavors are as bold as they are delicious.
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