Ever had one of those mornings where you wake up craving something sweet, but not too sweet? Something that feels like a warm hug from your abuela? Enter marranitos—those adorable little gingerbread pigs that are as fun to make as they are to eat. Whether you call them marranitos, cochinitos, or puerquitos, these pan dulce treats are a staple in Mexican bakeries and a nostalgic favorite for many.
But what if I told you that you don’t need to run to the panadería to enjoy them? That’s right—today, we’re diving into the world of marranitos recipe magic, and I’m sharing everything you need to make these little piggies at home. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked.
What Are Marranitos?
Marranitos are a type of pan dulce (sweet bread) that’s flavored with molasses and spiced with ginger and cinnamon. They’re soft, slightly cakey, and shaped like cute little pigs—hence the name, which literally means “little pigs” in Spanish.
These treats are more than just a snack; they’re a cultural icon. For many of us, marranitos are tied to childhood memories of weekend mornings, family gatherings, and trips to the local bakery. And while they might look fancy, they’re surprisingly simple to make.
Why You’ll Love This Marranitos Recipe
Let’s be real—baking can feel intimidating. But this marranitos recipe is beginner-friendly and oh-so-rewarding. Here’s why:
- Easy ingredients: Flour, molasses, brown sugar, and a few spices are all you need.
- Fun to make: Rolling out the dough and cutting out little pig shapes is oddly satisfying.
- Perfect for sharing: These marranitos are a hit at parties, breakfasts, or as a sweet afternoon treat.
Plus, they’re versatile. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee, dunk them in hot chocolate, or pack them in your kid’s lunchbox. They’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Marranitos (Mexican Gingerbread Pigs): A Sweet Pan Dulce Recipe for Breakfast or Dessert
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup dark brown sugar packed
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup unsulfured molasses
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Heat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar until smooth. Add one egg, molasses, milk, and vanilla, and mix until combined.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, baking soda, and cinnamon. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Roll & Cut: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ⅜-inch thickness. Use a pig-shaped cookie cutter to cut out your marranitos.
- Bake: Place the pigs on the prepared baking sheets, brush with a beaten egg, and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly browned.
- And voilà! You’ve just made your own batch of marranitos pan dulce.
Notes
- The number of cookies may vary depending on the size of your cookie cutter.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Perfect for dunking in milk or coffee!
Images Credit: Isabel Eats
Tips for Perfect Marranitos
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the oven—these should be soft, not crunchy.
- Get creative: No pig cutter? Use any shape you like, or simply cut the dough into squares.
- Store them right: Keep them in an airtight container to maintain their softness.
Why Marranitos Are More Than Just a Treat
There’s something special about marranitos that goes beyond their flavor. They’re a connection to tradition, a reminder of family, and a celebration of Mexican culture. Every bite is a little piece of history—a sweet, spiced, molasses-infused history.
So, the next time you’re craving something sweet, skip the store-bought cookies and try making marranitos. Not only will your taste buds thank you, but you’ll also get to experience the joy of creating something truly special.
Final Thoughts
Marranitos are more than just a recipe—they’re a story. A story of family, tradition, and the simple joy of sharing something delicious. Whether you’re baking them for the first time or recreating a childhood favorite, these little pigs are sure to bring a smile to your face.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, preheat that oven, and let’s make some marranitos. And hey, if you end up eating half the batch before they even cool, no judgment here. I’ve been there.
More Breakfast Recipes
- Licuado de Plátano: Creamy Mexican Smoothie
- Mexican Chilaquiles Recipe
- Nopales con Huevo: A Traditional Mexican Breakfast
Looking for More Easy Mexican-inspired Recipes?
Here are some must-try recipes that bring authentic Mexican vibes to your kitchen:
- Authentic Birria Recipe
- Raspados: Mexican Snow Cone
- Mexican Green Spaghetti Recipe
- Crispy Tacos Dorados: Golden Fried Tacos
Give these recipes a try and bring the vibrant taste of Mexico to your table!
Tried This Recipe?
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