The Best Mexican Baked Goods That Are Surprisingly Easy to Make

When it comes to delicious baked goods, Mexican cuisine offers a treasure trove of options that are not only mouthwatering but also surprisingly easy to make at home. Here is a selection of the best Mexican baked goods that will make your kitchen smell heavenly and satisfy your sweet tooth.

1. Conchas

Conchas are perhaps the most iconic Mexican sweet bread, characterized by their shell-like shape and sugary topping. Made with a fluffy dough enriched with milk and butter, these delightful rolls are easy to prepare. Simply mix the dough, allow it to rise, and top it with a sweet sugar crust before baking. The result is a soft, lightly sweet bread perfect for breakfast or a snack.

2. Pan de muerto

This traditional bread, known as "bread of the dead," is often made during Día de los Muertos. It has a slightly sweet flavor and is adorned with bone-shaped designs, symbolizing the cycle of life and death. The recipe for pan de muerto includes basic ingredients like flour, sugar, and eggs, making it simple to whip up. The dough is slightly flavored with orange and anise, creating a distinctive taste that is hard to resist.

3. Empanadas de dulce

Empanadas are savory or sweet pastries filled with various ingredients, and the sweet version is a delightful treat you can make at home. Using a simple dough of flour, butter, and sugar, you can fill these pastries with options like sweet cheese, fruit preserves, or pumpkin. Bake until golden brown for a beautiful final product that tastes just as good as it looks.

4. Tres leches cake

This classic Mexican dessert is a favorite at parties and celebrations. Tres leches cake is a sponge cake soaked in a mixture of three types of milk: evaporated, condensed, and whole milk. While it might seem complex, the process is straightforward. Bake your sponge cake, prepare the milk mixture, and then allow it to soak—transforming a simple cake into a moist, decadent delight.

5. Bizcochos

These traditional Mexican cookies are often served alongside coffee or hot chocolate. Made with basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, and baking powder, bizcochos are flavored with cinnamon and can be either crispy or soft, depending on your preference. Their simplicity and delightful flavor make them an excellent choice for both novice bakers and experienced cooks.

6. Churros

Churros are a beloved Mexican snack that can easily be made at home. With just a few ingredients—water, flour, sugar, and salt—you can create the dough, which is then piped into hot oil to fry. Once golden brown, coat these crispy treats in sugar and enjoy them with a side of chocolate sauce for dipping. Making churros might sound daunting, but they are remarkably easy and incredibly satisfying to create.

7. Flan

This smooth and creamy custard topped with caramel is a staple in Mexican dessert cuisine. Flan is made using simple ingredients like eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla. The caramel is made by melting sugar until it turns golden, and after that, everything is mixed and baked in a water bath to achieve its silky texture. With minimal effort, you can impress your guests with this classic dessert.

With these recipes in your arsenal, you can bring a taste of Mexico into your home. Try your hand at baking these delightful treats, and you’ll soon find that delicious Mexican baked goods are well within your reach. Happy baking!