Mexico’s Sweet Treats
Mexico is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious cuisine. When it comes to sweet treats, Mexican desserts are some of the most unique and flavorful in the world. From churros to tres leches cake, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth in Mexico. However, when it comes to the national cookie of Mexico, there are a few contenders that stand out above the rest.
History of Mexican Cookies
Cookies have been a part of Mexican cuisine for centuries, dating back to the time of the Aztecs. The Aztecs used honey, vanilla, and other natural ingredients to make sweet treats that were enjoyed by everyone from royalty to commoners. When the Spanish arrived in Mexico in the 16th century, they brought with them new ingredients and techniques that had a profound impact on Mexican cuisine. Sugar, wheat flour, and eggs became common ingredients in Mexican desserts, including cookies.
The Role of Cookies in Mexican Culture
Cookies play an important role in Mexican culture, particularly during holidays and celebrations. Many traditional Mexican cookies are shaped and decorated to represent different cultural symbols, such as pigs and stars. Cookies are often given as gifts and are a staple at family gatherings and parties.
The Contenders for Mexico’s National Cookie
There are several cookies that could be considered as Mexico’s national cookie, based on their popularity and cultural significance. Some of the top contenders include polvorones, marranitos, ojarascas, cuernitos, and churros.
Polvorones: The Butter Cookies of Mexico
Polvorones, also known as Mexican wedding cookies, are a buttery shortbread cookie that is dusted with powdered sugar. They are popular throughout Mexico and are often served at weddings and other special occasions.
Marranitos: The Iconic Pig-Shaped Cookies
Marranitos, or cochinita cookies, are a type of gingerbread cookie that is shaped like a pig. They are a popular treat in Mexico, particularly during the Christmas season, and are often sold at local markets and bakeries.
Ojarascas: The Crispy Cinnamon Treats
Ojarascas are a type of crispy cinnamon cookie that are popular in central and southern Mexico. They are often served with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
Cuernitos: The Croissant-Like Delights
Cuernitos, or Mexican croissants, are a flaky buttery cookie that is shaped like a crescent. They are a popular breakfast treat in Mexico and are often served with a cup of café de olla.
Churros: The Fried Dough Classics
Churros are a classic Mexican treat made from fried dough that is dusted with cinnamon sugar. They are often served with a side of chocolate dipping sauce and are a favorite at street fairs and festivals throughout Mexico.
The Verdict: Which Cookie Takes the Crown?
While all of these cookies are delicious and beloved in Mexico, the one that is considered the national cookie is the polvoron. Its popularity and cultural significance make it the clear winner.
How to Make Mexico’s National Cookie at Home
To make polvorones at home, you will need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the flour, salt, and vanilla extract to the bowl and mix until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the cookies are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool for a few minutes, then dust them with powdered sugar.
Conclusion: Celebrate Mexican Cuisine with Cookies
Mexican cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique ingredients, and cookies are no exception. Whether you’re enjoying a polvoron with a cup of coffee or biting into a crispy marranito, there’s no denying the deliciousness of Mexico’s national cookie. So why not try your hand at making some of these sweet treats at home and celebrate the rich culinary traditions of Mexico?
