Cinco de Mayo is a vibrant celebration filled with music, dancing, and, most importantly, delicious food! While savory dishes often take center stage, no Cinco de Mayo fiesta is complete without a sweet ending. This year, skip the complicated recipes and impress your guests with these easy Cinco de Mayo desserts. These recipes are designed to be quick, simple, and bursting with authentic Mexican flavors. From creamy flan to refreshing fruit salsas, there’s something here for everyone. Get ready to add a sweet touch to your Cinco de Mayo celebration!
**Why Easy Desserts are the Way to Go for Cinco de Mayo**
Cinco de Mayo celebrations are often about large gatherings, potlucks, and enjoying the company of friends and family. Spending hours in the kitchen on complicated desserts can be stressful and take away from the fun. Easy desserts allow you to spend more time with your guests, enjoy the festivities, and still offer a delightful sweet treat. These recipes use readily available ingredients and require minimal cooking skills, making them perfect for both experienced and novice bakers.
**Recipe 1: Quick & Easy Churro Bites**
Churros are a classic Mexican dessert, but making them from scratch can be time-consuming. This recipe offers a shortcut to churro goodness with minimal effort.
*Prep time: 10 minutes*
*Cook time: 15 minutes*
*Yields: Approximately 24 bites*
**Ingredients:**
* 1 can (13.8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* Optional: Chocolate sauce or caramel sauce for dipping
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. **Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture:** In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. **Unroll and Cut:** Unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean surface. Using a pizza cutter or knife, cut the dough into small bite-sized pieces (approximately 1 inch squares).
4. **Shape and Dip:** Roll each piece of dough into a small ball or log shape. Dip each piece into the melted butter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
5. **Coat with Cinnamon-Sugar:** Immediately after dipping in butter, roll each piece in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, coating evenly.
6. **Bake:** Arrange the coated dough bites on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. **Cool and Serve:** Let the churro bites cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving platter. Serve warm with chocolate sauce or caramel sauce for dipping, if desired.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Air Fryer Option:** These churro bites can also be cooked in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the coated dough bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown.
* **Spice It Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a spicy kick.
* **Different Dough:** Try using puff pastry dough instead of crescent roll dough for a flakier texture.
* **Dipping Sauces:** Get creative with your dipping sauces! Consider using dulce de leche, Mexican chocolate sauce, or even a simple vanilla glaze.
**Recipe 2: No-Bake Margarita Pie**
This refreshing pie captures the essence of a margarita in a creamy, no-bake dessert. It’s perfect for a hot Cinco de Mayo day.
*Prep time: 20 minutes*
*Chill time: 4 hours (minimum)*
*Yields: 8 servings*
**Ingredients:**
* **Crust:**
* 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
* 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
* **Filling:**
* 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup tequila (optional, can substitute with lime juice)
* 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed is best)
* 2 tablespoons orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec)
* Pinch of salt
* **Garnish:**
* Lime wedges
* Salt (for rimming, optional)
* Whipped cream (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Crust:** In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate to form a crust. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
2. **Make the Filling:** In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk and continue beating until well combined.
3. **Add Margarita Flavors:** Stir in the tequila (or lime juice substitute), lime juice, orange liqueur, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the lime juice or tequila to your preference.
4. **Pour and Chill:** Pour the filling into the prepared graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely.
5. **Garnish and Serve:** Before serving, garnish the pie with lime wedges and a sprinkle of salt around the rim (optional). Serve chilled with whipped cream, if desired.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Non-Alcoholic Version:** If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, omit the tequila and increase the lime juice to 3/4 cup. You can also add a teaspoon of lime zest for extra flavor.
* **Different Crust:** Try using a pretzel crust for a salty-sweet flavor combination.
* **Frozen Pie:** For an even more refreshing treat, freeze the pie for a few hours before serving. Let it thaw slightly before cutting into slices.
* **Individual Mini Pies:** Make individual mini margarita pies using small graham cracker crusts or ramekins.
**Recipe 3: Mexican Chocolate Avocado Mousse**
This surprisingly delicious mousse combines the richness of chocolate with the creaminess of avocado. It’s a decadent and healthy dessert option.
*Prep time: 15 minutes*
*Chill time: 30 minutes (minimum)*
*Yields: 4 servings*
**Ingredients:**
* 2 ripe avocados
* 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or maple syrup for a healthier option)
* 1/4 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
* Pinch of salt
* Optional: Chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or whipped cream for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a food processor or blender, combine the avocados, cocoa powder, sugar (or maple syrup), almond milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.
2. **Blend Until Smooth:** Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. **Taste and Adjust:** Taste the mousse and adjust the sweetness or spice to your preference. Add more sugar for a sweeter mousse or a pinch more cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
4. **Chill:** Transfer the mousse to individual serving dishes or glasses. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Garnish and Serve:** Before serving, garnish the mousse with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or whipped cream, if desired. Serve chilled.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Sweetness Level:** Adjust the amount of sugar or maple syrup to your liking. Start with less and add more as needed.
* **Spice It Up:** For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder.
* **Nut Butter:** Add a tablespoon of almond butter or peanut butter for a richer and more nutty flavor.
* **Vegan Option:** This recipe is naturally vegan if you use maple syrup as a sweetener and plant-based milk.
**Recipe 4: Spicy Mango Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips**
This refreshing and vibrant salsa is a delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Served with homemade cinnamon sugar tortilla chips, it’s the perfect light and festive dessert.
*Prep time: 20 minutes*
*Cook time: 10 minutes*
*Yields: 6 servings*
**Ingredients:**
* **Mango Salsa:**
* 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
* 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
* 1/4 red onion, finely diced
* 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
* 2 tablespoons lime juice
* 1 tablespoon honey
* Pinch of salt
* **Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips:**
* 6 flour tortillas
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Mango Salsa:** In a medium bowl, combine the diced mangoes, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeno pepper, cilantro, lime juice, honey, and salt. Gently toss to combine. Taste and adjust the lime juice, honey, or jalapeno to your preference. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. **Make the Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush both sides of each tortilla with melted butter.
3. **Combine Cinnamon and Sugar:** In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
4. **Coat Tortillas:** Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over both sides of the buttered tortillas.
5. **Cut into Triangles:** Stack the tortillas on top of each other and use a pizza cutter or knife to cut them into triangles (approximately 6-8 triangles per tortilla).
6. **Bake:** Arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
7. **Cool and Serve:** Let the tortilla chips cool completely on the baking sheet before serving with the mango salsa.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Fruit Options:** Experiment with other fruits in the salsa, such as pineapple, strawberries, or peaches.
* **Herb Variations:** Try using mint instead of cilantro for a different flavor profile.
* **Spice Control:** Adjust the amount of jalapeno pepper to control the spice level of the salsa. You can also remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.
* **Different Chips:** Use store-bought cinnamon sugar tortilla chips for an even quicker option.
**Recipe 5: Dulce de Leche Brownies**
Elevate your regular brownies with the rich, caramel-like flavor of dulce de leche. These fudgy brownies are a decadent and irresistible treat.
*Prep time: 15 minutes*
*Cook time: 30-35 minutes*
*Yields: 16 brownies*
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (18.3 ounces) brownie mix (plus ingredients called for on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water)
* 1/2 cup dulce de leche
* Optional: Sea salt for sprinkling
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to the temperature indicated on the brownie mix box. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. **Prepare Brownie Batter:** Prepare the brownie batter according to the instructions on the box.
3. **Pour Half the Batter:** Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
4. **Add Dulce de Leche:** Drop dollops of dulce de leche evenly over the brownie batter.
5. **Pour Remaining Batter:** Pour the remaining brownie batter over the dulce de leche, gently spreading it to cover. Swirl the dulce de leche into the batter with a knife or toothpick for a marbled effect.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake.
7. **Cool and Serve:** Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Sprinkle with sea salt, if desired. Serve at room temperature.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Homemade Dulce de Leche:** For an even more authentic flavor, make your own dulce de leche. You can find recipes online.
* **Nutty Brownies:** Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for a nutty texture.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
* **Espresso Powder:** Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the brownie batter to enhance the chocolate flavor.
**Recipe 6: Easy Mexican Wedding Cookies (Polvorones)**
These delicate and crumbly cookies are a classic Mexican treat. They’re simple to make and melt in your mouth.
*Prep time: 20 minutes*
*Cook time: 12-15 minutes*
*Yields: Approximately 36 cookies*
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for coating
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Add Vanilla:** Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. **Add Nuts (Optional):** Stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts, if using.
7. **Shape Cookies:** Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set but not browned. They should still be pale in color.
9. **Coat with Powdered Sugar:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While the cookies are still warm, roll them generously in powdered sugar.
10. **Cool Completely and Coat Again:** Let the cookies cool completely on the wire rack. Once cool, roll them in powdered sugar again for a thicker coating.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Almond Extract:** Use almond extract instead of vanilla extract for a slightly different flavor.
* **Citrus Zest:** Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a bright and refreshing flavor.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Mix in mini chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
* **Toasted Nuts:** Toast the pecans or walnuts before chopping them to enhance their flavor.
**Recipe 7: Tres Leches Cake (Simplified Version)**
Tres Leches Cake, meaning “three milks cake,” is a classic Latin American dessert known for its incredibly moist and creamy texture. This recipe simplifies the process for an easy Cinco de Mayo treat.
*Prep time: 20 minutes*
*Cook time: 30-35 minutes*
*Chill time: 2 hours (minimum)*
*Yields: 9 servings*
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water)
* 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
* 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Optional: Whipped cream, cinnamon, or fresh fruit for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Bake the Cake:** Prepare the yellow cake according to the instructions on the box. Bake in a 9×13 inch baking pan until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
2. **Poke Holes:** Once the cake has cooled, use a fork or toothpick to poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
3. **Prepare the Milk Mixture:** In a large bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
4. **Pour Milk Mixture Over Cake:** Slowly and evenly pour the milk mixture over the cooled cake, making sure to saturate the entire surface. The cake will absorb most of the liquid.
5. **Chill:** Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cake to fully absorb the milk mixture.
6. **Top and Serve:** Before serving, top the cake with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or fresh fruit, if desired. Serve chilled.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add Liquor:** Add a tablespoon of rum or brandy to the milk mixture for a more complex flavor.
* **Coconut Cream:** Substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream for a tropical twist.
* **Different Cake:** Use a sponge cake or chiffon cake instead of yellow cake for a lighter texture.
* **Homemade Whipped Cream:** Make your own whipped cream for a more decadent topping.
**Recipe 8: Paletas (Mexican Popsicles)**
Paletas are Mexican popsicles made with fresh fruit and other delicious ingredients. They’re a refreshing and customizable treat perfect for Cinco de Mayo.
*Prep time: 20 minutes*
*Freeze time: 6 hours (minimum)*
*Yields: 6-8 popsicles*
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups chopped fruit (such as mango, strawberries, pineapple, watermelon, or a combination)
* 1/2 cup water
* 1/4 cup sugar (or honey)
* 2 tablespoons lime juice
* Optional: Chili powder, mint leaves, or other flavorings
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine the chopped fruit, water, sugar (or honey), and lime juice. Add any optional flavorings, such as chili powder or mint leaves.
2. **Blend Until Smooth:** Blend until the mixture is completely smooth.
3. **Pour into Popsicle Molds:** Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top for expansion.
4. **Insert Popsicle Sticks:** Insert popsicle sticks into the center of each mold.
5. **Freeze:** Freeze for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, until the popsicles are solid.
6. **Unmold and Serve:** To unmold the popsicles, run the molds under warm water for a few seconds. Gently pull on the popsicle sticks to remove the popsicles. Serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Fruit Combinations:** Get creative with your fruit combinations! Try mango with chili powder, strawberries with lime, or pineapple with coconut milk.
* **Creamy Paletas:** Use coconut milk or Greek yogurt instead of water for a creamier texture.
* **Herbs and Spices:** Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as basil, cilantro, ginger, or cinnamon.
* **Chunkier Paletas:** Leave some of the fruit unblended for a chunkier texture.
**Making the Most of Your Cinco de Mayo Desserts**
* **Presentation is Key:** Even simple desserts can look elegant with a little effort. Use attractive serving dishes, garnish with fresh fruit, and arrange the desserts artfully.
* **Offer Variety:** Provide a selection of desserts to cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Include options that are gluten-free, vegan, or low in sugar.
* **Make Ahead:** Prepare as much as possible in advance to reduce stress on the day of the celebration. Many of these desserts can be made a day or two ahead of time.
* **Involve Others:** Enlist the help of friends or family to prepare the desserts. This makes the process more fun and collaborative.
* **Enjoy!:** Most importantly, relax and enjoy the process of creating and sharing these delicious Cinco de Mayo desserts with your loved ones.
**Conclusion:**
Cinco de Mayo is a time for celebration, and these easy dessert recipes will help you add a sweet touch to your festivities without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you choose the quick churro bites, the refreshing margarita pie, or the decadent chocolate avocado mousse, these desserts are sure to be a hit with your guests. So, gather your ingredients, put on some festive music, and get ready to create some delicious and memorable Cinco de Mayo desserts!