28 Mexican Desserts For The Holidays

by

When the holidays roll around, it’s time to break out the family recipes for timeless seasonal treats. For a taste of Mexican cuisine’s sweet side, these 28 desserts showcase beloved flavors and textures. In “28 Mexican Desserts For The Holidays,” you’ll discover a mouthwatering selection of recipes ranging from churros to tres leches cake.

With vivid photos and detailed instructions, each recipe transports you to a Mexican kitchen where holiday memories are made. As you read about crispy churro cookies and silky dulce de leche, you can almost smell the decadent aromas wafting from the oven.

From classics like flan to innovative fusions like margarita pie, this article overflows with inspiration to spice up your holiday dessert spread. With 28 recipes made for celebrating, get ready to give your guests a healthy dose of Mexican deliciousness this season.

Tres Leches Cake

One of my favorite recipes that I recently discovered is the Tres Leches Cake. This light and fluffy treat is a traditional Mexican dessert that has quickly become a staple in my home. The secret to making this dish so special is the three different kinds of milk that are used to soak the cake. This unique technique results in a dessert that is incredibly moist and tender, with a perfectly sweet and creamy flavor.

I love to top my Tres Leches Cake with a fluffy whipped topping and a dusting of cinnamon, which adds just the right amount of sweetness to the already decadent cake. If you’re looking for a dessert that is sure to impress your dinner guests, try making this authentic Tres Leches Cake recipe.

Mangonada Sorbet

One of the best things about this recipe is that you don’t even need an ice cream maker to make it- which is a lifesaver for people like me who don’t own one.

Additionally, because it’s made with all-natural ingredients such as honey, lime juice, and pureed mangoes, it’s a much healthier alternative to regular ice cream. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it’s also healthy since it’s made with real fruit, which is always a bonus.

To make this delicious dessert, all you need is a blender, a few ingredients, and some ripe mangoes. The process is simple- just blend the mangoes until they become a smooth puree, mix in the other ingredients, and freeze it. The result? A mouth-watering, vibrant treat that’s perfect for satisfying your craving for something sweet.

Chocoflan

The best thing about this dessert is that it can be prepared a day or two ahead of time, the recipe is easy to follow and requires ingredients that are commonly found in your kitchen. When I first tried the Mexican chocoflan, I was not sure what to expect.

I assumed that the combination of cake and flan would not work. Still, after taking my first bite, I was blown away by how amazing it tasted. The moist chocolate cake complements the creamy flan, and the cajeta caramel sauce drizzled all over the finished product adds a touch of sweetness that is not overbearing.

Homemade Churros

Making churros is easier than you might think. All you need are some basic pantry staples, and you’re ready to go. In fact, with the help of a simple video tutorial, I learned how to make this recipe like a pro.

The process involves making a dough with flour, water, butter, and eggs, which is then piped into hot oil and fried until golden and delicious. Once the churros are ready, they are coated in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar to create the perfect balance of flavors.

With a crispy and fluffy texture, these sweet delights offer a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. I have always been a fan of this Spanish delicacy, and since I discovered how to make it at home, it has been my go-to recipe whenever I want to indulge in something satisfying.

Concha Bread

I have always had a fascination with Pan Dulce and the skill required to make them. Whenever I bite into a Concha, I am transported back to my childhood memories of visiting my grandparents in Mexico and sitting in the local bakery

The beauty of Conchas lies in their sweet and buttery flavor, combined with their unique and stunning appearance. The crisp, sugary topping that resembles the texture and shape of a seashell, hence the name “Concha” (which translates to “shell” in English). S

ets them apart from any other sweet bread you will ever try. Whether you enjoy Conchas for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, they are the ultimate comfort food that can quickly lift your spirits and satisfy your cravings.

Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars

When I first discovered the magic of Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars, I was blown away by how delicious and easy they were to make. To make these bars, you only need a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

The recipe starts with a layer of crescent rolls, which are then topped with a creamy blend of cream cheese, vanilla, egg, and sugar. The real magic happens with the topping of cinnamon sugar, which adds a sweet and slightly spicy kick to the dessert. The combination of soft and flaky crust with the creamy cheesecake filling is simply irresistible.

Champurrado

Whenever the weather starts to get chilly or when I am feeling a little down, Champurrado is my go-to drink. The warm and thick consistency of this drink is exactly what you need during the fall and winter seasons.

The combination of Mexican chocolate, milk, cinnamon, piloncillo (raw cane sugar), and corn flour creates an unforgettable taste that will stay with you long after you have finished drinking it.

Sometimes cloves are added to the recipe as well, but I personally prefer the simpler version without cloves. If you haven’t tried Champurrado yet, I highly recommend that you do. Your taste buds will thank you.

Fruit Popsicles

The bright and vibrant color of these popsicles alone is enough to make you want to take a bite. But it’s the juicy and irresistible flavor that truly makes them a summer favorite.

For those unfamiliar with pluots, they’re a hybrid fruit that’s a cross between a plum and an apricot. They have a unique taste that’s both sweet and tangy, and in my opinion, perfect for making popsicles. Not only do they add a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate, but they’re also packed with nutritional benefits that make me feel good about indulging.

All you need is a blender, some pluots, and a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. And with only a few hours in the freezer, you’ll have a refreshing treat that’s perfect for those hot summer days.

Best-Ever Flan

For those who have never tried it, Creme Caramel Custard is a heavenly combination of silky smooth custard and sweet, decadent caramel sauce. The process of making it involves carefully cooking the sugar until it caramelizes and then pouring it into a baking dish to cool.

Next, you make the custard mixture, which typically consists of eggs, milk, and sugar. The custard is then poured over the cooled caramel and baked in the oven until set.

I was a bit intimidated by the idea of making caramel from scratch. But with some encouragement from a friend and a step-by-step guide to follow, I was able to successfully make this delicious dessert.

Dulce de Leche

The possibilities for using this creamy sauce are endless, as it tastes amazing on everything from pancakes and waffles to ice cream, cakes, and even coffee! I recently tried a delicious Dulce de Leche cheesecake recipe that completely stole the show compared to the classic cheesecake.

You can also use it as a dip for fruits, cookies, or pretzels for a quick and easy dessert idea. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Making Dulce de Leche is incredibly easy and requires minimal ingredients, which is one of the many reasons why I love this recipe. The best part? You can make it using the unopened canned sweetened condensed milk.

It’s easy to get started; grab your slow cooker, Instant pot, or stove-top and follow the simple steps to create this decadent dessert sauce. You can even customize your Dulce de Leche by adding your favorite flavors, such as vanilla, sea salt, or even a dash of cinnamon!

Polvorones

With just a few simple ingredients, including butter, flour, sugar, and your choice of nuts, polvorones are always a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings. I’ve tried a few variations on the classic Polvorone recipe. One of my favorites is to swap out the traditional pecans or walnuts for pistachios or almonds.

The resulting cookies are just as crumbly and delicious, with a slightly different flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make. The dough comes together quickly and requires no chilling, so you can have warm, buttery cookies on the table in under an hour. Plus, the recipe can easily be doubled or tripled if you need to feed a larger group of people.

Capirotada

There is just something about the combination of fried bread, peanuts, and cheese that creates a satisfyingly unique taste. But the real magic comes in the form of the piloncillo syrup that is drizzled on top of each layer, giving the dessert a rich sweet flavor that is hard to resist.

The beauty of this recipe is that it is simple to make and can be easily customized to your liking. You can switch out the peanuts for another type of nut or add a layer of fruit for a fresh twist. I personally like to add a little bit of cinnamon to the syrup to give it an extra kick of flavor.

Churro Cookies

If you’re a fan of churros or just looking for a unique twist on a classic cookie recipe, I highly recommend giving these churro cookies stuffed with chocolate a try. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also a fun and playful addition to any dessert spread.

These cookies truly capture the essence of a classic churro with their chewy center, crispy edges, and cinnamon sugar coating. But what really takes these cookies to the next level is the surprise element of the chocolate filling. With each bite, your taste buds are met with the perfect combination of sweet and spice.

Pan De Muerto

My personal experience with this classic recipe for Dia de Muertos has been nothing short of amazing. The significance of this bread in the Day of the Dead celebration cannot be overstated. In Mexican culture, it is believed that the dead return to the living world to feast on the offerings made by their loved ones.

One of those offerings is Pan de Muertos, which is placed on the ofrenda (altar) along with other symbolic items. The aroma from the bread is believed to guide the spirits to the offering, where they can indulge in the flavors of the celebration.

Pan de Muertos is not just a recipe for bread or rolls; it is a cultural and spiritual experience that brings families and communities together. If you are interested in trying out a traditional recipe for Dia de Muertos, then I urge you to give Pan de Muertos a try.

Mexican Hot Chocolate Pie

This recipe’s rich, creamy texture and tantalizing chocolatey flavor have had me hooked since I first tried it years ago. But recently, I discovered a new twist on this classic recipe that took my love for French Silk Pie to a whole new level.

It involved adding a little bit of Mexican Hot Chocolate, along with some Tequila and Cayenne Pepper, into the mix. I knew that I had found my new favorite dessert. The slight kick of the Cayenne Pepper and the subtle warmth of the Tequila perfectly complemented the smooth and velvety texture of the chocolate filling.

It was a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, with every bite leaving me craving more. It’s a unique and delicious twist on a classic dessert that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

RumChata Cheesecake

One recipe that has quickly become a favorite in my household is the layered RumChata™ cheesecake with a Cinnamon Toast Crunch™ cereal crust. Not only is this dessert visually stunning with its creamy, dreamy layers, but it also packs a flavorful punch.

One of the standout elements of this dessert is the crunchy and flavorful cereal crust. I love how the sweetness of the Cinnamon Toast Crunch™ cereal pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy cheesecake filling.

The addition of this unique ingredient adds a rich and complex flavor that takes this cheesecake to the next level. And let’s not forget about the gooey cinnamon drizzle that tops off this delectable dessert. Its sticky sweetness complements the flavors perfectly and adds an extra layer of texture.

Margarita Pie

The creamy texture of the pie filling with a lash of tartness and a hint of tequila makes this pie a hit among all my family and friends. The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to execute, and the ingredients are readily available at any grocery store.

All you need to do is blend the ingredients together, pour them into a prepared crust, and freeze it until it’s set. The result is an amazing frozen dessert that will leave your taste buds singing! So go ahead and try this Margarita pie recipe, and impress your guests with a refreshing and boozy dessert.

This pie is not only boozy, but it’s effortless to make, and since it’s a no-bake pie, it’s ready in no time.

Snowball Cookies

The best thing about them is the combination of the buttery texture and nutty flavor. What I love most about Snowball cookies is how versatile they are. They can be served as a dessert for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or even Easter.

I’ve added my own twist to the recipe by incorporating chopped pecans, which add a crunchy texture to the cookies. Additionally, I sometimes substitute some of the flour for cornstarch, which makes the cookies even more tender.

As soon as you take a bite, the cookie just melts in your mouth, leaving behind a scrumptious aftertaste.

Churro Chips

Churro experience is not complete without a dip or beverage to complement its texture and flavor. Homemade dulce de leche is a classic pairing, where the creamy, caramel-like sauce soothes the spiciness of the cinnamon and sugar.

Alternatively, store-bought versions work just as well! To elevate the churro indulgence, I highly recommend serving it with a complementary drink. For a cozy night in, pair it with a mug of hot chocolate or coffee to warm your soul on a crisp evening.

On a hot summer day, cool down with a refreshing glass of horchata, a cinnamon-spiced rice milk beverage that is popular in Latin American countries. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it!

Margarita Cheesecake Mousse

A perfect treat that can be whipped up in no time, these crispy and crunchy sweet treats are easy to make and leave everyone’s mouth watering. The crunchiness of these treats makes it a perfect party dessert.

I’ve always enjoyed making these churros, whether it’s for a party or just my personal craving. The donut-like texture and heavenly aroma of cinnamon and sugar can make anyone weak in the knees. Now, if you’re looking for an even more refreshing and unique dessert, you should definitely try making my Margarita Pie Jars!

This recipe is the perfect way to indulge in a sweet and tangy dessert topped off with a little tequila. The sweet-sour flavor of lime along with a hint of tequila leaves this treat with a perfect twist that brightens up the mood.

Disney’s Tres Leches Cake

These golden, crispy pastries are a delicious treat and perfect for sharing with friends or family. Since then, I’ve been serving my churros drizzled with homemade dulce de leche and it’s a total game-changer.

Trust me, once you’ve tried homemade churros, the store-bought kind just won’t cut it anymore! Essentially, this cake is made up of a sponge cake base that’s soaked in a mixture of three different types of milk. This results in a creamy, milky flavor that’s light and airy in texture.

Once soaked, the cake is topped with a sweetened whipped cream that adds just the right amount of decadence. The best part about this cake is that it’s so customizable – you can add fresh fruit or even a layer of caramel for an extra twist.

RumChata Cupcakes

Rumchata is a creamy, classy mix of cinnamon, rum, and vanilla flavours that can easily transform any boring dessert into a delicious and flavorful one. Adding it to your baking list of ingredients may seem like an unconventional choice.

The smooth texture and incredible taste of Rumchata are perfect for bundt cakes or as a component in a cheesecake filling. If you are wondering where to buy Rumchata or how to use it in your dessert recipes, don’t worry, you can find it in any liquor store.

With a few small adjustments, you can turn your boring dessert recipes into a delightful delicacy.

Churro Pancakes

To make this recipe, you start by preparing a simple pancake batter and then adding a healthy dose of cinnamon and vanilla extract for extra flavor. Once you pour the batter onto the griddle, you let the pancakes cook until the edges are crispy and the centers are fluffy.

Then comes the best part – rolling the pancakes in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for an added pop of sweetness. These churro pancakes are perfect for any occasion, but they are particularly great for a lazy weekend brunch at home. Pair them with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa, and you have a breakfast that is sure to impress.

Trust me, once you try these pancakes, you’ll wonder how you ever settled for plain old maple syrup.

Margarita Bars

The process of making these bars was surprisingly simple. The salty pretzel crust was easy to put together, and I loved the added crunch that it gave to the bars. The filling, which consisted of lime juice, tequila, and condensed milk, was smooth and custardy, with just the right amount of tanginess.

The bars were absolutely delicious, and everyone who tried them agreed that they were an absolute dream come true for margarita lovers like us. I was absolutely thrilled to discover this Margarita Bars recipe.

The idea of combining the citrusy, boozy flavors of a classic margarita with the sweetness of a dessert was immediately intriguing to me.

Churro Apple Pies

In my experience, one issue that can arise when using puff pastry is that it can try to slip off the muffin tin. If this happens to you, don’t worry! Just gently and carefully press the pastry back onto the tin, so it stays in place.

Trust me when I say that the result will be worth it when you’re enjoying warm and flaky pastries that are perfect for sharing (or not sharing) with loved ones. But, if you’re looking for an equally delicious dessert with less tricky ingredients, then consider my Snickerdoodle Ice Cream Bowls.

These sweet treats are so easy to make and have the added fun of edible bowls. With apple pie filling added in, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. So, whether you choose to go with the classic puff pastry recipe or opt for the simpler Snickerdoodle Ice Cream Bowls, don’t be afraid to experiment and have some fun with your desserts!

Deep-Fried Tequila Shots

And when I discovered Fried Tequila Shots, my taste buds were absolutely blown away! The recipe is incredibly simple but yields truly exceptional results: each nugget of tender angel food cake is dipped in tequila and then lightly fried until it becomes crispy, golden, and irresistibly fragrant.

To finish it off, the cake nuggets are dusted with powdered sugar and paired with a zesty lime dip that perfectly balances the sweetness of the dessert. The combination of flavors and textures is frankly addictive, and this dish is sure to become a crowd favorite for any party or gathering.

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never look at tequila shots the same way again!

Chocolate Churro Dip

Churros have long been a favorite treat all around the world, but did you know that these deliciously crunchy snacks actually originated in Spain? Nowadays, you can find them just about anywhere – from amusement parks to county fairs, and even sporting events.

But what makes our churros even better is the fact that we’ve baked them instead of frying them, resulting in a healthier version that’s just as crispy and delicious as the original. So if you’re looking for a guilt-free way to indulge in one of the world’s most beloved snacks, this recipe is definitely worth a try.

And if you’re like me, you’ll find that the combination of sweet cinnamon churros and rich chocolate dip is simply unbeatable – it’s a match made in dessert heaven!

Tres Leches Coconut Cupcakes

These churros are baked in the oven (or air fried, if you prefer) instead of fried, making them healthier than traditional versions. So you can indulge in this decadent treat without any guilt, especially since the cinnamon chocolate dip is a perfect match for them!

If you’re in the mood for something different yet equally scrumptious, why not try our Tres Leches Cupcakes? These cupcakes are inspired by the famous Mexican dessert of the same name, which features a cake soaked in three types of milk.

Our recipe calls for a basic cake mix, but you’ll use evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream to make the cupcakes extra rich and moist.