Cortadillo, also known as Mexican Pink Cake, is a nostalgic treat found in panaderías across Mexico. This soft, buttery cake is light and fluffy, with a delicate sweetness enhanced by a smooth pink frosting and rainbow sprinkles. It’s a childhood favorite that brings back memories of weekend bakery runs and family celebrations. Perfect for birthdays, tea time, or just a sweet pick-me-up, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious. The vibrant pink icing adds a festive touch, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for any dessert table. Whether you enjoy it with coffee, milk, or on its own, Cortadillo is a classic Mexican treat that never goes out of style.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 3-4 tbsp whole milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 2 drops pink food coloring
- ¼ cup rainbow sprinkles
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
- For the frosting, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and pink food coloring until smooth.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake and top with rainbow sprinkles.
- Slice into squares and serve.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Background of Cortadillo (Mexican Pink Cake)
Cortadillo, also known as Mexican Pink Cake, is a beloved dessert that has a rich history in Mexican culture. This moist and sweet cake is often enjoyed at special occasions, from birthdays and family gatherings to casual afternoon snacks. With its vibrant pink frosting, Cortadillo stands out among other cakes due to its visually appealing presentation and its light, fluffy texture that’s sure to please the taste buds.
Traditionally, Cortadillo is a staple in Mexican bakeries, where it is prepared in large sheet pans, ready to be sliced into squares for easy serving. The pink frosting, which is often made with just a few simple ingredients like powdered sugar and milk, adds both sweetness and color, making it a perfect treat for celebrations. The cake itself is buttery and tender, with a simple vanilla flavor that pairs perfectly with the sugary frosting. The colorful sprinkles on top give it an added festive touch, making it a favorite in Mexican homes during special moments.
The recipe for Cortadillo is passed down through generations, and it remains a beloved classic in Mexican homes, capturing the essence of traditional baking. Its simplicity and nostalgic charm make it a perfect choice for anyone looking to recreate a piece of Mexican heritage in their kitchen.
Why This Recipe is the Best
1. Easy to Make and Accessible Ingredients
One of the reasons Cortadillo is so popular is its simplicity. You don’t need any exotic or hard-to-find ingredients to make this delicious treat. Most of the ingredients—such as flour, butter, eggs, and sugar—are pantry staples. The frosting is equally simple, requiring just powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and food coloring. These accessible ingredients make Cortadillo an easy recipe to whip up for anyone, from beginners to experienced bakers.
2. Versatile and Customizable
Cortadillo is a highly versatile cake. The basic recipe can be modified to suit various preferences or dietary needs. For instance, you can swap out the food coloring to create different colors for different occasions, such as red for holidays or pastel shades for a springtime gathering. Additionally, you can experiment with different frostings, from chocolate or cream cheese to fruit-flavored glazes. The cake itself can also be customized—try adding citrus zest, nuts, or even a layer of jam for a unique twist.
3. Perfect for Special Occasions
Whether it’s a birthday party, family reunion, or just a casual get-together, Cortadillo is the ideal cake for any occasion. Its soft and tender texture makes it a crowd-pleaser, while the bright pink frosting and sprinkles add a fun, festive flair. This cake is a fantastic way to add a touch of tradition and authenticity to your celebrations, especially when you’re craving something simple yet indulgent.
4. Great for All Ages
This cake is loved by both children and adults, making it the perfect dessert for a wide range of age groups. Kids adore the sweetness of the frosting and the colorful sprinkles, while adults appreciate the light, buttery texture and the nostalgic feel it brings. If you’re serving a crowd, Cortadillo is sure to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth.
5. A Taste of Mexico in Every Bite
Cortadillo is more than just a dessert; it’s a connection to Mexican culinary traditions. By making this cake at home, you’re not only recreating a delicious treat, but you’re also bringing a piece of Mexican culture into your kitchen. This cake has been a staple in Mexican bakeries for generations, and by baking it yourself, you’re embracing and sharing a part of Mexico’s rich food history.
6. Deliciously Moist and Tender
Unlike some cakes that can be dry or too dense, Cortadillo has a wonderfully light and moist texture. The combination of butter and eggs ensures a tender crumb, while the whole milk keeps the cake soft and luscious. The frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness without overpowering the flavor of the cake. This perfect balance of moistness and sweetness makes Cortadillo a satisfying dessert that you can enjoy without feeling overwhelmed by sugar.
Health Benefits of Making Cortadillo at Home
Although Cortadillo is a dessert, making it from scratch has its benefits. One of the primary advantages of homemade baked goods is that you have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to make substitutions for a healthier alternative, if desired. For example, you can:
- Reduce the Sugar: By adjusting the amount of sugar in the cake or frosting, you can lower the overall sugar content, making it a more balanced dessert.
- Use Whole Wheat Flour: If you prefer a more nutritious option, you can swap regular all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Go Dairy-Free or Vegan: By using dairy-free butter and milk alternatives, you can easily make this cake vegan or lactose-free, ensuring that everyone can enjoy it.
Making Cortadillo at home means you’re not relying on store-bought versions that may contain artificial additives or preservatives. Instead, you’re enjoying a fresh, homemade treat with ingredients that you can trust.
Perfect for Pairing
Cortadillo is ideal when paired with various beverages, making it a versatile option for dessert tables. It goes wonderfully with coffee, hot chocolate, or even a cold glass of milk. If you’re hosting a tea party or family gathering, this cake will complement any drink you choose, elevating the experience with its soft and rich flavor.
How to Serve Cortadillo
This cake can be served in a variety of ways depending on the occasion. For a more casual setting, you can cut the cake into squares and serve it on a platter for easy sharing. For more formal events, you can present it as individual slices on elegant dessert plates, garnished with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. Regardless of how you serve it, Cortadillo will surely impress your guests.
Why You Should Add This Recipe to Your Baking Collection
If you’re looking for a cake that’s both traditional and adaptable, simple yet delicious, then Cortadillo is the perfect addition to your baking collection. Whether you’re new to baking or have been in the kitchen for years, this recipe is a great one to master. Its straightforward ingredients and preparation make it a great option for both beginner bakers and seasoned chefs, and its delicious flavor will ensure it becomes a favorite in your home.
Adding Cortadillo to your list of go-to recipes is not just about creating a tasty dessert—it’s about embracing a piece of Mexican tradition, sharing it with others, and making sweet memories with your loved ones. This cake is a true celebration of Mexican culture, perfect for any occasion where joy, laughter, and delicious food are in the air.
Conclusion
Cortadillo, the Mexican Pink Cake, is a delightful dessert that brings together simplicity, tradition, and a burst of vibrant flavor. Its soft, moist texture paired with the sweet, colorful frosting makes it a dessert that appeals to all ages, and its versatility allows you to adapt it to any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event, hosting a casual gathering, or simply craving a sweet treat, Cortadillo is sure to impress.