While Cinco De Mayo is often associated with margaritas and festive gatherings, it’s also an opportunity to indulge in sweet treats that blend Tex-Mex flair with traditional Mexican flavors. In fact, there are over 30 desserts that can be enjoyed alongside a tequila or simply as a way to include friends who may not drink. From classic sweets like Tres Leches Cake and Sopapillas to innovative creations like Pinata Cookies and Rice Krispie Treat Maracas, the options are endless.
You’ll also find traditional Mexican treats like Alfajores and Arroz con Leche that are worth trying to make yourself. With Cinco De Mayo only one of many celebrations throughout the year, feel free to perfect these recipes on Taco Tuesdays leading up to May or prep for next year’s celebration. These sweet treats can even be whipped up for a themed dinner party or as a special indulgence when you need a treat.
Regardless of which dessert you choose, you’ll have a sure-fire hit that everyone will love!
Churro Cupcakes
The essence of traditional churros is preserved in these cupcakes through the deliberate combination of cinnamon sugar on top of a rich, creamy frosting. This harmonious blend ensures that the sweet and spicy flavors of churros are expertly captured, making it impossible to miss out on the characteristic sweetness we’ve come to expect from these treats.
Choco Taco Shells
Elevate your taco night experience by introducing a decadent dessert bar that will delight both kids and adults alike. While it may require an initial investment in a pizzelle iron, the payoff comes in the form of a sweet treat that’s devoured with reckless abandon. The combination of rich chocolate and colorful sprinkles adds a playful touch to these dessert taco shells, which can be tailored to suit individual tastes by offering a variety of toppings.
No Bake Margarita Cheesecake Bites
The combination of lime zest and tequila infuses these cheesecake bites with a delightful zing, making them an ideal match for sipping alongside a margarita. With no baking required, the most challenging aspect is waiting patiently for the mixture to chill in the refrigerator – the hands-on work is surprisingly minimal. For best results, it’s recommended to serve these chilled, but their freezer-friendly nature means they can be prepared ahead of time and remain delicious for up to ten days.
This convenient feature allows you to enjoy them at your leisure, knowing they’ll still satisfy your cravings when you’re ready.
Apple Pie Taquitos
Indulge in a sweet celebration this Cinco De Mayo with these scrumptious taquitos that require just five ingredients! The combination of packaged pie crusts and canned apple pie filling simplifies the process, while a cinnamon sugar mixture adds a delightful sweetness and golden hue when buttered on top. Fresh from the oven or with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a scoop of ice cream, these treats are sure to impress.
Rice Krispies Treat Maracas
As kids eagerly await indulging in these sweet treats, they’ll also relish the opportunity to assist in crafting them in the kitchen. The combination of pretzel rods, melted chocolate, and colorful M&Ms creates a delightful dessert that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Fried Ice Cream
While this treat is dubbed ‘fried’ ice cream, the name is actually a misnomer – it’s not fried at all! Instead, the combination of corn flakes and cinnamon creates a crunchy exterior that mimics the texture of a fried crust, minus the need for hot oil. As an added bonus, this no-bake recipe requires only freezing time to achieve its signature firm and frozen consistency.
Cinco De Mayo Pinata Cookies
Wrapped around a delightful surprise, these striped cookies bring an extra layer of excitement to the classic sugar cookie. By incorporating vibrant colors, they add an element of fun and whimsy. But what’s inside is truly special – a hidden pocket that bursts open to reveal a treasure trove of mini M&Ms! To seal the deal, a dollop of homemade frosting acts as the glue, binding the different sides together to create the illusion of one cohesive treat.
Churro Cheesecake Dip
In a surprising twist, this no-bake dessert dip requires minimal effort yet yields impressive results. The simplicity of combining ingredients is all that’s needed to bring it together. What’s more, the addition of heavy whipping cream lends a light and airy texture, making it an ideal accompaniment to fresh fruit or crunchy graham crackers.
Mexican Flan
This flan recipe offers flexibility, as you can replace condensed and evaporated milk with cream cheese or coconut milk to alter the texture and flavor. For an alternative approach, consider using a water bath or Instant Pot to cook this dessert without relying on an oven. To further enhance the flavors, try adding vanilla, orange, coconut, coffee, or chocolate notes to the caramel and custard.
Mexican Conchas
Conchas are a beloved treat during special holidays like Cinco De Mayo, when their ornate designs add an extra layer of festive flair. While they may appear intricate, the process of making conchas is surprisingly straightforward. As you shape and bake them, the dough will naturally develop the characteristic seashell pattern on the outside. Feel free to get creative with your toppings – from sweet glazes to crunchy nuts, the possibilities are truly endless!
Tres Leches Cake
While the notion of combining three distinct milks in a single cake recipe may seem daunting, rest assured it’s an approachable endeavor for even novice bakers. The harmonious blend of whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk yields a sumptuous, moist, and delightfully sweet cake that’s elevated by the milks’ ability to infuse their flavors deep into the batter.
The crowning glory is the whipped cream topping, infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the freshness of strawberries. This show-stopping dessert is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire, with its irresistible charm and satisfying flavor profile.
Paletas
As the name Cinco De Mayo implies, it’s a celebration that takes place in May. For those residing in regions where the summer heat sets in around this time, these revitalizing Mexican popsicles will provide a perfect way to beat the heat while commemorating the occasion. Beyond the traditional paletas flavors like strawberry agua fresca and mango chili lime, you can also experiment with creative variations such as Mexican chocolate paletas, offering a delightful twist on the classic dessert.
Churro Cream Puffs
While whipping up cinnamon cream puffs from scratch might seem daunting, it’s actually a straightforward process that requires minimal unusual ingredients. In fact, these treats are elevated to an entirely new level when infused with the signature churro flavor, making them an excellent choice for Cinco De Mayo celebrations.
The added twist comes in the form of piping cinnamon frosting onto your cream puffs using either a piping bag or a Ziploc bag with the corner carefully cut off – a simple yet effective technique that takes these pastries from ordinary to extraordinary.
Cannoli Chimichangas
Indulge in the sublime delight of heavenly cannoli chimichangas, expertly crafted by combining rich, deep-fried pastry with a velvety cocoa-sugar mixture and a generous scoop of creamy ice cream. This indulgent treat is sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.
The process of creating these delectable treats is surprisingly straightforward: simply mix together a luscious cannoli filling, encase it in a crispy tortilla shell, wrap it up with precision, and top it with your preferred accompaniments. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to treat yourself, these cannoli chimichangas are the perfect solution. As Cinco De Mayo approaches, these sweet and savory delights are sure to be a hit at any fiesta or gathering.
Margarita Macarons
The sweet and tangy combination of tequila lime buttercream frosting perfectly complements these macaron cookies, making them an irresistible snack to indulge in during Cinco De Mayo celebrations. The subtle crunch from a pinch of sea salt provides a delightful contrast to the cookies’ natural sweetness, subtly evoking the flavors of a margarita.
While they can technically last up to a month in the freezer, it’s unlikely you’ll need to worry about storing them for that long, as their addictive charm will likely have you devouring them at an alarming rate.
Chocolate S’mores Baked Empanadas
The beauty of making empanadas lies in the ease of preparation, thanks to the availability of pre-made individual ingredients. This simplifies the process significantly, leaving you with more time to focus on the delightful combination of flavors. The addition of chocolate chips and mini marshmallows delivers a classic s’mores taste, while the egg wash and sugar topping bring a new level of excitement to this beloved dessert recipe.
Mexican Chocolate Cake
While a classic cake recipe is always a crowd-pleaser, there’s no reason it has to be dull or uninspired. This chocolate delight, infused with the warm spices of cinnamon and cayenne pepper, adds an unexpected twist to the traditional treat. The addition of these unique flavors perfectly complements the rich, velvety texture of the moist cake and the decadent buttercream topping.
What’s more, this recipe requires only about an hour of baking time, making it a convenient option for last-minute celebrations or spontaneous gatherings. Its exceptional moisture content also allows it to remain fresh at room temperature for several days, ensuring that every bite is as delicious on day two as it was on day one.
Dessert Nachos
While traditional Cinco De Mayo celebrations often feature savory nachos, a sweet twist can elevate the dessert game. By swapping out salt for cinnamon sugar when making tortilla chips, a flavorful base is created for a dessert nacho extravaganza. From there, the possibilities are endless – add fresh fruit, drizzle with chocolate, top with whipped cream, or get creative with other sweet treats to create a one-of-a-kind dessert experience.
Coconut Lime Tres Leches Cake
Substituting coconut milk and lime juice in a classic Tres Leches recipe can revolutionize the flavor profile. The subtle tang of the lime, amplified by the addition of rum-infused zest, creates a distinctive and tantalizing twist on the original. To guarantee the cake is evenly saturated with the sweet and creamy liquid, consider flipping it over and pouring the mixture from the bottom, ensuring each bite is a masterclass in contrasting flavors.
White Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Don’t worry if Cinco De Mayo rolls around and you haven’t planned a dessert to share with friends. It’s an easy mistake to make, even for the most prepared among us. But fear not! With these effortless chocolate-covered strawberries, you can impress your guests without breaking a sweat. The combination of juicy strawberries, melted white chocolate, and vibrant green sprinkles is sure to elevate your dessert game, despite requiring minimal effort.
Sopapillas
Indulge in the sweetness of Mexico from the comfort of your own home by whipping up these fried desserts, which require only common kitchen ingredients. The best part? You can involve the kids in the process, letting them shape the treats to their liking while you handle the frying. Take it to the next level with a sprinkle of sugar and ground cinnamon, accompanied by a side of warm honey or Piloncillo syrup for dipping – a match made in heaven!
Taco Cookies
Imagine a sweet surprise that combines the familiarity of taco shells with the indulgence of sugar cookies. The twist? A dash of cayenne pepper adds a surprising depth to the flavor profile. Meanwhile, coconut shreds colored to resemble lettuce and cheese create a convincing visual illusion, while M&Ms take on the roles of meat and tomatoes. And let’s not forget the white frosting, which brings it all together like a dollop of sour cream.
As guests gather around the dessert table, they may initially think they’re in for a savory treat. But one bite and they’ll be hooked on the recipe, craving more of this innovative sweet and spicy fusion.
Margarita Pie in Jars
Instead of preparing an entire margarita pie, making these individual desserts in small jars offers greater portability and convenience. The addition of orange liqueur and tequila gives the filling its signature margarita flavor, although an alcohol-free alternative can be achieved by substituting the tequila with orange juice.
This dessert is delicious on its own, but it’s also elevated by creative garnishes – consider adding a sugar or salt rim, whipped cream, crushed graham crackers, or a lime wheel to take your snacking experience to the next level.
Cinnamon Chips
These sweet and spicy cinnamon chips offer a versatile canvas for elevating your dessert game. They’re perfect for pairing with the Churro Cheesecake dip, scooping up as a base for Dessert Nachos, or crushing and sprinkling over ice cream. The best part? They come together quickly using just flour tortillas and a simple cinnamon sugar mixture.
Whether you’re looking to add a delightful twist to your Cinco De Mayo celebrations or simply seeking a tasty treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cinnamon chips are a great option.
Alfajores
Indulge in the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture of these scrumptious cookies. Unlike caramel, the dulce de leche used in this recipe has a richer, creamier consistency that perfectly complements the cookie’s sweetness. While optional toppings such as powdered sugar or shredded coconut can add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal, the cookies are more than satisfying on their own.
For those looking to elevate their snack game, consider pairing these treats with our curated selection of Mexican Appetizers for a truly unforgettable experience.
Leche Quemada
This Mexican candy not only makes a fantastic Cinco De Mayo dessert, but it also serves as an excellent gift option for holidays. The combination of sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and vanilla creates a mouthwatering flavor profile. The boiling process lends a slightly burnt taste that sets these treats apart from others. While a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, be sure to cut the candies while they’re still warm for the best results.
Pinata Cake
As you slice into this delectable cake, you’ll be delighted by the surprise inside – a medley of candies waiting to be discovered. The cleverly applied frosting not only holds the layered cake together but also cleverly conceals any hint that there’s a sweet secret within. Feel free to get creative with your flavor combinations by substituting the vanilla cake mix and buttercream frosting with your own preferred pairings.
This recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings, just like our popular Easy Mexican Tortilla Casserole – a cheesy masterpiece that’s easy to make!
Arroz Con Leche
This creamy dessert’s unique flavor profile is achieved through the use of three types of milk. The versatility of this recipe allows it to be served in various ways, depending on the season or occasion. For instance, it can be enjoyed chilled during a warm Cinco De Mayo celebration, while its warmed-up version makes for a perfect winter treat.
What may seem like an unusual pairing at first – rice and dessert – actually works harmoniously with the cinnamon and milk combination, resulting in a soft texture that complements the overall flavor.
Cute Cinco De Mayo Cactus & Llama Cookies
For this whimsical dessert, you can use your go-to round sugar cookie recipe or opt for a store-bought package. The versatility lies in choosing any type of round sugar cookies that suit your taste buds. To add an extra layer of magic, rainbow nonpareils sprinkles adorn the edges and bottom of a gum drop, cleverly mimicking the peak of the hat. Meanwhile, buttercream icing plays a crucial role as both adhesive and sweetener, binding everything together while adding a touch more sugary charm.
Tequila Strawberries
As Cinco De Mayo approaches, why not elevate your celebration by incorporating these strawberry-infused treats into the mix? They pair perfectly with a margarita or can serve as a delightful post-dinner snack. The process is remarkably simple: simply slice the strawberries in half and allow them to marinate in a mixture of tequila, lime juice, sugar, and salt for under 30 minutes, yielding a sweet and tangy dessert.
The bottom line
As the night winds down on Cinco De Mayo, these sweet treats provide the perfect ending to a festive celebration. While some stick to traditional recipes, others offer innovative twists that make them ideal for special occasions. The holiday may be all-American, but Cinco De Mayo desserts offer a delicious excuse to indulge in Tex-Mex flair, Mexican-inspired goodies, and authentic Mexican-style treats.
