How to Make Traditional Mexican Marranitos
Marranitos, also known as piggy cookies, are a delightful traditional Mexican treat often enjoyed with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee. These soft, spiced cookies are shaped like little pigs and are perfect for any occasion. Here’s how to make traditional Mexican marranitos at home.
Ingredients for Marranitos
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Next, add in the molasses, milk, and egg. Mix until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, spices (cinnamon, ginger, and cloves), and salt.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until you form a soft dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour until it reaches a workable consistency.
Step 3: Shape the Marranitos
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Flatten each ball slightly, and then use your hands or a cookie cutter to shape them into pig forms. Traditional marranitos are usually about 3 inches long. If desired, you can use a knife to add little details like eyes or ears.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Place the shaped marranitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them for expansion. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until they’re lightly browned. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking, which can result in dry cookies.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the marranitos from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve with your favorite beverage and enjoy the warm, spiced goodness!
Tips for Perfect Marranitos
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. You can add more cinnamon or even a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
- Storage: Keep your marranitos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Decorate: For a festive touch, you can decorate your marranitos with colorful icing or sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
Making traditional Mexican marranitos at home is a fun and rewarding experience. These delicious cookies bring a taste of Mexico into your kitchen, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy every bite of your homemade marranitos!