Mexican Pink Cookies

Mexican Pink Cookies: A Vibrant and Delicious Treat

There’s something truly enchanting about a cookie that not only tastes divine but also captivates you with its vibrant color. Mexican Pink Cookies are a delightful treat that has won hearts with their unique rosy hue and perfect blend of sweetness and nuttiness. Originating from Mexican-American bakeries, these cookies bring a beautiful twist to traditional sugar cookies, infused with pecans and coated in a luscious pink sugar glaze.

What makes Mexican Pink Cookies so special is their distinctive pink coating, which is both visually appealing and adds a subtle crunch. The cookie itself is tender, buttery, and richly flavored with vanilla and toasted pecans, making every bite a joyful experience. This recipe is a wonderful way to impress friends and family, especially during holidays or special occasions, with a cookie that’s as tasteful as it is charming.

Ingredients

• For the Cookies:
  • 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (100g) finely chopped pecans, toasted
• For the Pink Sugar Coating:
  • 1 large egg white
  • 1 1/2 cups (180g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • Pink food coloring (gel or liquid)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
6. Fold in the toasted, chopped pecans evenly throughout the dough.
7. In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg white until frothy. Stir in the sugar, almond extract, and several drops of pink food coloring until the mixture is a bright pink.
8. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
9. Dip each dough ball into the pink sugar coating, turning to completely cover it, then place onto the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
11. Remove from oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
12. Once cooled, the pink coating will set into a slightly crisp, sweet shell around each cookie, completing their signature look and texture.

Recipe Information

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
• Servings: Makes about 3 dozen cookies
• Difficulty level: Intermediate

Tips & Variations

• Toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet before chopping to enhance their flavor.
• Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant pink without altering the consistency of the sugar coating.
• For a softer coating, reduce the amount of sugar slightly or increase egg white by a teaspoon.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
• These cookies freeze well. Freeze in a single layer before glazing, then glaze after thawing for best results.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 1g

Conclusion

Mexican Pink Cookies are a charming and delicious addition to any cookie repertoire. Their unique pink coating and buttery, pecan-laden centers make them perfect for festive occasions or just a special treat any day of the week. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the burst of color and flavor it brings to your baking.

Serve these delightful cookies with a hot cup of coffee or tea, or package them beautifully as gifts for friends and family. Don’t forget to share your baking success stories and thoughts in the comments – I love hearing from you!