Are you looking for a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings? Look no further! Mexico has a rich tradition of delicious and authentic desserts that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From classic treats like churros with chocolate dipping sauce, to creative twists like fried ice cream and cajeta crepes, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouthwatering Mexican dessert recipes that are easy to make and sure to impress.
From creamy flans to crispy sopapillas, we’ve got the perfect recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth. And the best part? These desserts are not only delicious but also steeped in tradition and culture. So why wait? Dive into this collection of 18 scrumptious Mexican dessert recipes and start indulging!
Churros with Chocolate Dipping Sauce
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with Churros and Chocolate Dipping Sauce!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
– Chocolate Dipping Sauce ingredients below
Chocolate Dipping Sauce:
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Gradually add milk and mix until a dough forms.
4. Pipe the dough through a star-tipped piping bag or a plastic bag with a corner cut off into long strips.
5. Fry the churros for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Dust with powdered sugar (optional).
8. For the Chocolate Dipping Sauce, melt chocolate chips and butter in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
9. Stir in heavy cream until smooth.
10. Serve churros warm with the Chocolate Dipping Sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Flan
This classic Mexican dessert is a creamy, caramel-topped delight that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a show-stopping flan that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and egg yolks until well combined.
3. Add vanilla extract and whisk until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Serve chilled, drizzled with caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tres Leches Cake
Tres Leches Cake Recipe
A moist sponge cake soaked in three types of milk – evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream – making it a creamy and divine dessert. This classic Latin American recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
7. Poke holes all over the top of the cake with a skewer or fork.
8. In a separate bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream.
9. Pour milk mixture evenly over the top of the cake, allowing it to absorb.
10. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Arroz con Leche
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy Arroz con Leche, a traditional Latin American rice pudding. This sweet and soothing dessert is 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 vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, milk, sugar, and salt. 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 the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies
Rich, spicy, and indulgently chocolatey, these Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies are a unique treat that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Mexico. With the warmth of cinnamon and chili powder, these cookies are perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°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 butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in cinnamon, chili powder, and chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sopapillas with Honey
Sopapillas are traditional Latin American fried dough pastries that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This recipe combines the crispy, buttery sopapillas with a drizzle of warm honey for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Honey, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Fry sopapillas in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm with a drizzle of honey.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mexican Wedding Cookies
These buttery, nutty cookies are a staple at any celebration, and their simplicity makes them a favorite among bakers of all levels. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a batch of delicious treats to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
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 powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped nuts.
6. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fried Ice Cream
Get ready to experience a unique dessert that’s sure to impress! This Fried Ice Cream recipe combines the creaminess of ice cream with the crunch of fried batter, creating a sweet and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 quarts vanilla ice cream
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Scoop the ice cream into balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
3. Pour the buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip each ice cream ball into the milk, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the coated ice cream balls for 10-15 seconds on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Serve immediately, dusting with powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (frying time: 5-6 minutes)
Dulce de Leche Empanadas
Dulce de Leche Empanadas are a sweet and indulgent treat that combines the flaky pastry of traditional empanadas with the rich, caramel flavor of dulce de leche. Perfect for a dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Dulce de Leche (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add shortening and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spoon dulce de leche onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
5. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Chocolate Pudding
This decadent dessert combines the deep flavors of Mexican chocolate with a creamy pudding, perfect for warm weather or any time you need a treat. This recipe is quick to prepare and can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons Mexican chocolate tablets (such as Ibarra), grated
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, cocoa powder, and sugar.
2. Add the grated Mexican chocolate and whisk until melted and smooth.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and stir in salt and vanilla extract.
5. Pour pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Bunuelos with Cinnamon Sugar
Warm Up with Traditional Bunuelos with Cinnamon Sugar
Bunuelos are sweet fried dough pastries coated in cinnamon sugar, a classic Mexican treat that’s perfect for snacking or as a dessert. This recipe yields 8-10 bunuelos.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in vegetable oil and warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small balls of dough into the oil, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
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. While still warm, coat bunuelos with cinnamon sugar mixture.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pastel de Elote
Pastel de Elote, a traditional sweet corn pudding from El Salvador, is a delicious and comforting dessert perfect for warm weather. This recipe combines fresh corn with creamy condensed milk, resulting in a rich and velvety treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole kernel corn (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together corn, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Add vanilla extract and salt; stir to combine.
4. Pour mixture into 6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajeta Crepes
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these delicate crepes filled with a rich cajeta (caramel) filling and topped with fresh fruit. Perfect for brunch or dessert, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Cajeta (caramel) sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh fruit of your choice (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, bananas)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in a small amount of batter to form a thin crepe.
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until edges start to curl. Loosen with a spatula and flip.
4. Place a tablespoon or two of cajeta sauce on the crepe, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Fold the crepe into a triangle or roll it up, depending on your preference.
6. Serve warm with fresh fruit and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes cooking time for crepes)
Mexican Fruit Salad with Lime and Chili
Add a burst of citrusy flavor and a touch of heat to your day with this vibrant fruit salad, infused with the bold flavors of Mexico.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed tropical fruit (such as pineapple, mango, kiwi)
– 1/2 cup diced papaya
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed tropical fruit and diced papaya.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the fruit and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro and chili flakes evenly over the fruit.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in no time!)
Chocolate Tamales
Elevate your tamale game with this rich and creamy chocolate filling wrapped in soft corn husks. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup masa harina
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Corn husks (about 12-15)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the masa dough by combining masa harina and water in a bowl. Mix until smooth and pliable.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together confectioners’ sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
3. Fold in heavy cream and chocolate chips until well combined.
4. Lay a corn husk flat with the wide end facing you. Place about 1 tablespoon of the masa dough onto the center of the husk, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Spoon about 1-2 teaspoons of the chocolate filling on top of the masa dough.
6. Fold the sides of the husk over the filling and then roll the tamale up, starting from the wide end.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients and cook tamales in a large steamer basket for 45-60 minutes or until the masa is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Mexican Mango Sorbet
This sorbet combines the sweetness of ripe mangoes with the bold flavors of Mexico, perfect for hot summer days. With only 3 ingredients and minimal equipment required, you can create this delicious treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ripe mango puree
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the mango puree and sugar until well combined.
2. Add the freshly squeezed lime juice and stir until dissolved.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, scoop into cones or bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on the churning time of your ice cream maker)
Pineapple Empanadas
These sweet and flaky empanadas are filled with a tangy pineapple filling, perfect for a dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add pineapple juice, stirring with a fork until dough comes together in a ball.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut out circles of dough using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place a tablespoon of crushed pineapple in center of each circle.
8. Fold dough over filling, pressing edges together to seal.
9. Brush tops with beaten egg for glaze.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Horchata Ice Cream
Experience the creamy, sweet, and nutty flavors of traditional Mexican horchata in a unique ice cream form. This recipe combines the comforting drink with rich ice cream, perfect for hot summer days or as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup prepared horchata (see notes)
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon, salt, and prepared horchata.
4. Allow mixture to cool to room temperature.
5. Churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once churned, stir in vanilla extract.
7. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and delicious world of Mexican desserts! This collection of 18 easy-to-make recipes features authentic treats that will satisfy your cravings. From classic churros with rich chocolate dipping sauce to creamy tres leches cake, there’s something for everyone. Try making sopapillas with honey, crispy bunuelos with cinnamon sugar, or decadent dulce de leche empanadas. These mouth-watering desserts are sure to transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a sweet treat, these recipes are perfect for any occasion.
