Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mexican Pink Cookies, also known as “galletas rosas,” are soft, buttery, and delightfully crumbly cookies with a beautiful pink hue and a lightly sweet flavor. These cookies are not only visually charming but also bring a nostalgic taste of Mexican bakeries right into your kitchen. With a simple ingredient list and easy-to-follow steps, these cookies are perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you’re preparing for a festive occasion or just want a sweet treat with your coffee, these cookies are a delightful choice.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter
Egg
Vanilla extract
Baking powder
Red or pink food coloring
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
Add a few drops of red or pink food coloring and mix until the dough is evenly colored.
Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but not browned.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Once cooled, optionally dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies. Preparation time: 15 minutes Baking time: 12 minutes Total time: 27 minutes

Variations

Flavor Twist: Add a hint of almond extract for a nuttier flavor.
Decorative Topping: Sprinkle with colorful sugar crystals before baking for extra sparkle.
Chocolate Dipped: Dip half of each cookie in melted white or dark chocolate for a festive touch.
Shape Variations: Use cookie cutters for themed shapes.

storage/reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, let them come to room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for 5-10 seconds.

FAQs

What gives Mexican Pink Cookies their color?

A few drops of red or pink food coloring are used to achieve their signature pink color.

Are Mexican Pink Cookies very sweet?

They have a light, buttery sweetness that isn’t overpowering, making them perfect for pairing with coffee or tea.

Can I make these cookies without food coloring?

Yes, the food coloring is purely for appearance and can be omitted if desired.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is recommended for best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used as a substitute.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

No chilling is required, but you can chill it for 15-30 minutes if your kitchen is warm.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately and avoid overmixing the dough.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

What type of food coloring is best?

Gel food coloring provides a more vibrant color with less liquid, but any type works.

Can I freeze the dough instead of the baked cookies?

Yes, shape the dough into balls and freeze. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the bake time.

Are these cookies traditional in Mexican cuisine?

Yes, they are a popular treat often found in Mexican bakeries and enjoyed during celebrations.

Conclusion

Mexican Pink Cookies are a cheerful and delicious treat that bring the charm of traditional Mexican bakeries into your home. With their soft texture, subtle sweetness, and playful color, they are perfect for any occasion. Try them once, and you’ll find yourself baking them again and again.