20 Mexican Desserts To Make For Cinco De Mayo (& All Year Long)
Here are 20 delicious Mexican desserts perfect for celebrating Cinco de Mayo—or enjoying any time of the year. These sweet treats range from traditional classics to creative twists, all packed with flavor and festivity.
1. Churros
Crunchy on the outside but soft and fluffy on the inside, churros are a delightful treat. These golden sticks of fried dough are generously rolled in cinnamon sugar, adding a sweet and aromatic touch. Often served with a rich chocolate or caramel sauce, every bite is an indulgence.
Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying alone, churros evoke a sense of celebration. Their simplicity makes them versatile, while their flavor keeps you coming back for more. Whether as a street food or a homemade delight, churros never fail to impress.
2. Tres Leches Cake
Tres Leches Cake is a rich, ultra-moist sponge cake soaked in a luxurious mixture of three kinds of milk: evaporated, condensed, and cream. This delightful concoction results in a texture that’s unlike any other cake, melting in your mouth with every bite.
The cake is typically adorned with a light layer of whipped cream and fresh fruit, such as strawberries, enhancing its refreshing quality. An ideal dessert for celebrations, it brings a sense of indulgence and satisfaction, embodying the charm of traditional Mexican baking.
3. Flan
Flan is a classic Mexican dessert known for its creamy, smooth texture and rich caramel flavor. This caramel custard delicacy is a staple at many gatherings, offering a taste that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
With its glossy top and silky body, flan is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Each spoonful provides a harmonious blend of sweetness and creaminess, making it a favorite among dessert lovers. Flan’s timeless appeal lies in its simplicity and elegance, capturing the essence of traditional Mexican cuisine.
4. Arroz con Leche (Mexican Rice Pudding)
Arroz con Leche, or Mexican Rice Pudding, is a comforting dessert that brings warmth with every spoonful. Made by cooking rice slowly with milk and cinnamon, this dish is sweetened to perfection, creating a creamy, luscious treat.
Often enjoyed as a dessert or a warming breakfast, its versatile nature adds to its charm. The subtle hints of cinnamon and vanilla elevate its flavor, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether served hot or cold, Arroz con Leche is a heartwarming dessert cherished by many.
5. Mexican Chocolate Pots de Crème
Mexican Chocolate Pots de Crème is an indulgent dessert that elevates the traditional custard with bold flavors. Infused with cinnamon and a hint of chili or cayenne, these pots of creamy delight offer a unique twist on chocolate desserts.
Their texture is silky and smooth, delivering a rich chocolate flavor with a spicy kick at the end. This combination creates a sensory experience that tantalizes the taste buds, making it perfect for chocolate lovers seeking something extraordinary. Elegant and sophisticated, they’re ideal for special occasions or an exquisite treat.
6. Conchas (Mexican Sweet Bread)
Conchas, or Mexican Sweet Bread, are a bakery favorite known for their distinctive seashell-like appearance. These soft, fluffy treats are topped with a crunchy, sugar-coated layer that comes in various colors, adding to their visual appeal.
The bread itself is lightly sweetened, offering a delightful contrast to the sugary topping. Often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, Conchas provide a cozy, comforting experience. Their playful colors and tender texture make them a beloved choice for breakfast or a midday snack.
7. Buñuelos
Buñuelos are thin, crispy fried disks of dough that are irresistibly crunchy and sweet. Dusted with cinnamon sugar, they offer a delightful balance of flavors that evoke a sense of festivity.
These treats are often associated with celebrations and holidays, making them a favorite during special occasions. Their light, airy texture makes them easy to enjoy, while the cinnamon sugar coating adds a comforting warmth. Buñuelos are a testament to the joy of simple ingredients creating magical moments.
8. Cajeta-Stuffed Empanadas
Cajeta-Stuffed Empanadas are a delectable pastry treat that surprises with every bite. The flaky, golden brown exterior hides a luscious filling of cajeta, a rich goat milk caramel that adds depth and sweetness.
These empanadas are perfect for dessert or a sweet snack, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The buttery pastry pairs beautifully with the smooth, caramel filling, creating a dessert that’s both satisfying and indulgent. They capture the essence of Mexican culinary creativity, blending tradition with taste.
9. Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies
Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies are a unique twist on a classic treat, combining the rich flavor of chocolate with the warmth of cinnamon and a hint of chili. These cookies are soft and chewy, providing a comforting texture that complements their bold taste.
The spices add a subtle heat that elevates the chocolate, creating a dessert that’s both familiar and adventurous. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a sweet gift, these cookies offer a delightful surprise for those who enjoy a little spice with their sweets.
10. Pastel de Elote (Mexican Sweet Corn Cake)
Pastel de Elote, or Mexican Sweet Corn Cake, is a moist, flavorful dessert that celebrates the natural sweetness of corn. Made with fresh corn kernels, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla, this cake is a delightful blend of flavors.
The texture is dense yet tender, creating a satisfying bite that highlights the corn’s unique taste. Often topped with a dollop of cream or enjoyed plain, Pastel de Elote is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed year-round. Its simplicity and rich flavor make it a comforting choice for any occasion.
11. Polvorones (Mexican Wedding Cookies)
Polvorones, also known as Mexican Wedding Cookies, are tender, buttery treats that melt in your mouth. Made with ground nuts and coated in powdered sugar, these cookies are simple yet incredibly satisfying.
Their delicate texture and subtle sweetness make them a popular choice for celebrations and weddings, symbolizing joy and prosperity. Each bite offers a crumbly, nutty flavor that’s both comforting and indulgent. Polvorones are a classic dessert that embodies elegance and tradition, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
12. Mango Chamoy Paletas
Mango Chamoy Paletas are a refreshing treat that combines the sweetness of mango with the tangy and spicy flavors of chamoy. These frozen popsicles offer a unique taste experience, balancing sweet, sour, and spicy notes perfectly.
Each bite is an explosion of flavors, making them a favorite for those who enjoy adventurous tastes. Ideal for hot summer days or as a fun party treat, these paletas are a testament to the creativity of Mexican desserts. Their vibrant color and bold flavor make them both visually appealing and delicious.
13. Coconut Tres Leches Cake
Coconut Tres Leches Cake is a tropical twist on the classic Mexican dessert, adding an exotic flair with coconut milk. This cake is soaked in the traditional three milks, but with the addition of coconut, it takes on a new, refreshing flavor.
Topped with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes, this cake is a celebration of texture and taste. The combination of creamy and crunchy elements creates a delightful dessert that’s perfect for those who love coconut. It’s a tropical getaway in every bite, bringing sunshine to any occasion.
14. Alegrías (Amaranth Bars)
Alegrías, or Amaranth Bars, are nutritious and delicious treats made with popped amaranth seeds, honey, and often mixed with nuts or dried fruits. These bars are a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors, providing a satisfying crunch.
Often enjoyed as a healthy snack or dessert, Alegrías are a testament to the versatility of ancient grains. Their natural sweetness and wholesome ingredients make them an ideal choice for those seeking a guilt-free indulgence. These bars are not only tasty but also full of nutrients, offering a delightful way to enjoy a healthy treat.
15. Mexican Sweet Tamales
Mexican Sweet Tamales are a delightful variation on the traditional tamale, filled with sweet ingredients like pineapple, cinnamon, or chocolate. These tamales are wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection, resulting in a soft, flavorful treat.
Each bite offers a blend of sweetness and the comforting texture of masa, making them a favorite for special occasions and holidays. The combination of fruity or chocolatey fillings with the tender masa creates a dessert that’s both unique and delicious. Sweet tamales showcase the creativity and diversity of Mexican cuisine.
16. Chocolate-Chile Truffles
Chocolate-Chile Truffles are a decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate ganache with a hint of cayenne and cinnamon. These truffles are rolled into smooth, velvety balls that melt in your mouth, delivering a surprising kick of heat.
The combination of sweet and spicy flavors creates a unique and indulgent treat that’s perfect for chocolate lovers. Each truffle offers a sophisticated taste experience, making them ideal for special occasions or as a luxurious gift. Chocolate-Chile Truffles capture the essence of Mexican flavor, blending spice with sweetness in every bite.
17. Pan de Elote Muffins
Pan de Elote Muffins are a delightful mini version of the traditional Mexican sweet corn cake. These muffins are moist and tender, capturing the rich flavor of fresh corn in every bite.
Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of coffee, they offer a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a classic dessert. The golden crust and soft interior create a pleasing contrast, making them a favorite among corn lovers. Pan de Elote Muffins are a testament to the versatility of corn in Mexican baking.
18. Tequila Lime Cheesecake Bars
Tequila Lime Cheesecake Bars are a refreshing dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with the zesty flavor of lime and a splash of tequila. These bars offer a playful twist on the traditional cheesecake, adding a bold, tangy taste.
The combination of smooth, creamy texture and citrusy notes creates a dessert that’s both indulgent and refreshing. Perfect for parties or a grown-up treat, these bars are a fun way to incorporate tequila into your dessert repertoire. Their vibrant flavor and unique twist make them a standout choice for any celebration.
19. Mexican Buñuelo Ice Cream Sundaes
Mexican Buñuelo Ice Cream Sundaes are a delightful fusion of crispy buñuelos and creamy vanilla ice cream, topped with a drizzle of cajeta. This dessert brings together the textures of crunchy and smooth, creating an irresistible combination.
The cinnamon sugar-coated buñuelos add a warm, spicy note, while the ice cream provides a cool, creamy contrast. Ideal for a festive treat or a fun dessert to share, these sundaes are a celebration of flavors and textures. They capture the essence of Mexican desserts, blending tradition with innovation.
20. Spiced Mexican Brownies
Spiced Mexican Brownies are a bold twist on the classic brownie, enhanced with cinnamon, cayenne, and a dash of espresso. These brownies are rich and fudgy, offering a deep chocolate flavor with a subtle spice kick.
The combination of spices adds warmth and complexity, making each bite a delightful experience. Perfect for those who love their desserts with a bit of adventure, these brownies offer a unique taste that’s both familiar and exciting. They’re ideal for a cozy night in or as a special treat for chocolate lovers.