John Myers
Mexican Christmas Desserts: Introduction
Mexican cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes, and the same can be said for its desserts. During the holiday season, Mexican families gather around the table to share traditional Christmas treats that have been passed down for generations. These desserts are often made with ingredients such as cinnamon, chocolate, and fruits like guava and pineapple. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular Mexican Christmas desserts that you can try at home.
Tamales Dulces: Sweet Tamales Recipe
Tamales are a staple of Mexican cuisine, and they are typically filled with savory ingredients like meat or beans. However, during the holiday season, sweet tamales known as “tamales dulces” are a popular dessert. The dough is made with masa harina (corn flour), sugar, and cinnamon, and it is filled with a sweet mixture made of coconut, raisins, and sometimes nuts. The tamales are then steamed until they are soft and fluffy. They can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Buñuelos: Fried Dough with Cinnamon Sugar
Buñuelos are a fried dough dessert that is popular in many Latin American countries, including Mexico. The dough is made with flour, eggs, and baking powder, and it is rolled out and cut into circles. The circles of dough are then fried until they are golden brown and crispy. Once they are fried, they are coated in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. Buñuelos can be served with a side of syrup, honey, or even chocolate sauce for dipping.
Ponche Navideño is a warm, spiced punch that is often served during the Christmas season in Mexico. The punch is made with a variety of fruits, including guava, apples, and oranges, as well as spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise. The fruit and spices are simmered together in water or fruit juice until they are soft and fragrant. The punch can be served with a shot of rum or tequila for those who want to add a little kick to their drink.
Rosca de Reyes: King’s Cake Tradition
Rosca de Reyes is a popular Mexican tradition that involves a sweet, ring-shaped cake that is decorated with candied fruits and a small baby figurine. The cake is often served on January 6th, which is known as Dia de los Reyes (Three Kings’ Day). The baby figurine is hidden inside the cake, and whoever finds it in their slice is believed to have good luck for the coming year. The cake is typically served with a side of hot chocolate or coffee.
Champurrado: Mexican Hot Chocolate
Champurrado is a thick, rich hot chocolate that is made with masa harina (corn flour), milk, and chocolate. The mixture is simmered together until it is thick and creamy, and it is often flavored with cinnamon and vanilla. Champurrado is typically served with a side of sweet bread or churros for dipping.
Rompope: Eggnog with a Mexican Twist
Rompope is a Mexican version of eggnog that is made with milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. The drink is often flavored with rum or brandy, and it is typically served cold. Rompope can be garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra festive touch.
Camotes: Candied Sweet Potatoes
Camotes are a popular Mexican dessert that is made with sweet potatoes that are candied in a mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and cloves. The sweet potatoes are boiled until they are soft, and then they are coated in the sugar mixture. Camotes can be served warm or cold, and they are often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
Alfajores: Soft Cookies Filled with Dulce de Leche
Alfajores are soft, crumbly cookies that are filled with dulce de leche, which is a sweet caramel-like spread made from milk and sugar. The cookies are often dusted with powdered sugar and can be flavored with cinnamon or vanilla. Alfajores are a popular dessert in many Latin American countries, and they are often enjoyed during special occasions like Christmas.
Arroz con Leche: Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
Arroz con leche is a creamy rice pudding that is flavored with cinnamon and sometimes vanilla. The pudding is made with rice, milk, and sugar, and it is slowly simmered until it is thick and creamy. Arroz con leche can be served warm or cold, and it is often garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. This dessert is a favorite among Mexican families during the holiday season, and it is often served as a comforting treat after a big meal.
