Gorditas de Azúcar Recipe: A Sweet Mexican Tradition
When it comes to authentic Mexican sweet treats, few recipes bring as much nostalgia and comfort as the gorditas de azúcar recipe. These fluffy, slightly thick, and sugar-dusted pastries are a favorite for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Loved for their soft inside and golden crust, gorditas de azúcar are the perfect balance of sweet and simple.
If you grew up in a Mexican household, you may remember waking up to the smell of these warm little cakes sizzling on a hot comal (griddle). If not, you’re about to discover a traditional recipe that has been passed down through generations and continues to bring families together.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about gorditas de azúcar—from their history and variations to a step-by-step gorditas de azúcar recipe that you can easily make at home.
What Are Gorditas de Azúcar?
The word gordita in Spanish means “little fat one,” which perfectly describes these small, plump pastries. Unlike savory gorditas (often made with masa harina and filled with meats or beans), gorditas de azúcar are sweet and fluffy, closer in texture to a pancake, biscuit, or scone.
They’re made with a simple mixture of flour, sugar, butter (or lard), baking powder, milk, and eggs. Once cooked on a hot griddle, the gorditas puff slightly, creating a tender interior and a lightly crisp exterior. Traditionally, they’re finished with a sprinkle of sugar or even cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness.
The History of Gorditas de Azúcar
The origins of gorditas de azúcar can be traced back to rural Mexico, where home cooks would prepare them with pantry staples for a quick, filling breakfast. Over time, they became a beloved street food and bakery item. Many Mexican panaderías (bakeries) still sell gorditas de azúcar alongside conchas, empanadas, and polvorones.
Today, they are especially popular in central and northern Mexico, though their recipes vary by region. Some versions are soft and fluffy, while others are slightly crunchy with caramelized edges. No matter the variation, the heart of the gordita remains the same: simple, homemade comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Gorditas de Azúcar Recipe
Making gorditas de azúcar at home requires just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
Basic Ingredients for Gorditas de Azúcar Recipe:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter or lard (softened)
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup whole milk (you may need a bit more depending on the dough consistency)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Flavor Boosters:
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for a warm touch)
- Zest of 1 orange or lemon (for a citrusy aroma)
- Cinnamon sugar mixture for dusting
Step-by-Step Gorditas de Azúcar Recipe
Follow these steps to make soft, golden, and delicious gorditas de azúcar at home:
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir well so that all the leavening agents are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Incorporate the Butter
Add the softened butter (or lard) to the dry mixture. Using your hands, a fork, or a pastry cutter, work the fat into the flour until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is essential for creating tender gorditas.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Gradually pour this mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring gently.
Step 4: Form the Dough
Knead the dough lightly until it comes together. It should be soft but not sticky. If the dough feels too dry, add a splash more milk; if too sticky, add a little more flour.
Step 5: Shape the Gorditas
Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Flatten each ball gently with your hands or a rolling pin until they are about 1/2-inch thick.
Step 6: Cook on the Griddle
Heat a comal, cast-iron skillet, or non-stick pan over medium heat. Place the gorditas on the hot surface and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 7: Sugar Dusting
Once cooked, immediately sprinkle the warm gorditas with sugar (or cinnamon sugar if you like). This allows the sugar to stick beautifully to the surface.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the gorditas warm with a cup of hot chocolate, café de olla, or milk. They also pair wonderfully with cajeta (Mexican caramel) or jam for an extra treat.
Tips for the Best Gorditas de Azúcar
- Don’t overwork the dough: Kneading too much can make the gorditas tough. Mix just until combined.
- Adjust milk carefully: Add it gradually to avoid overly sticky dough.
- Cook on medium heat: Too high and the outside will burn before the inside cooks; too low and they won’t brown nicely.
- Make ahead: Gorditas de azúcar store well for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat briefly on a comal or in the microwave.
Variations of Gorditas de Azúcar Recipe
One of the joys of this traditional recipe is how easily it can be adapted. Here are a few popular variations:
- Cinnamon Gorditas de Azúcar – Mix ground cinnamon into the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Gorditas – Fold mini chocolate chips into the dough before cooking.
- Citrus Gorditas – Add orange or lemon zest for a refreshing twist.
- Filled Gorditas – Split them open and spread with cajeta, dulce de leche, or fruit jam.
- Healthier Version – Use whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar slightly.
What to Serve with Gorditas de Azúcar
Traditionally, gorditas de azúcar are enjoyed with a warm drink. Some classic pairings include:
- Hot chocolate or champurrado
- Café de olla (Mexican spiced coffee)
- A glass of cold milk
- Atole (a warm masa-based drink)
For a heartier option, you can serve them with fresh fruit or yogurt on the side.
Why You’ll Love This Gorditas de Azúcar Recipe
- Simple ingredients: Pantry staples, nothing complicated.
- Quick to make: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: Enjoy plain, sugared, or filled with your favorite spread.
- Perfect for all occasions: Breakfast, merienda (afternoon snack), or dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I bake gorditas de azúcar instead of cooking them on a griddle?
Yes, you can bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 12–15 minutes, though they will have a slightly different texture than when cooked on a comal.
2. Can I make gorditas de azúcar with self-rising flour?
Yes! If using self-rising flour, omit the baking powder and salt.
3. How do I store leftover gorditas?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Warm before serving.
4. Can I freeze gorditas de azúcar?
Absolutely. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Final Thoughts
This gorditas de azúcar recipe is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a taste of tradition, family gatherings, and warm memories. With just a few simple ingredients, you can bring a piece of Mexican heritage into your kitchen. Whether you enjoy them plain, dusted with cinnamon sugar, or filled with cajeta, gorditas de azúcar are sure to become a household favorite.
So grab your flour and sugar, heat up your comal, and treat yourself to the comforting sweetness of homemade gorditas de azúcar today.
