There’s a special kind of joy in making something that’s both simple and deeply comforting. Sweet Mexican Pancakes, known as Gorditas de Azúcar, are exactly that kind of recipe. Born from tradition and crafted with basic pantry staples, these gently sweet, tender little cakes are a nostalgic favorite in many Mexican homes.

They’re not your typical pancakes. They’re a hybrid of a soft biscuit and a lightly sweet flatbread, cooked on a skillet until golden brown and perfectly soft. These little gorditas are beloved for breakfast, especially warm with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. The name “gordita” means “little fat one” in Spanish—a term of affection that describes their pillowy appearance.

This article will take you through everything you need to know to make perfect Sweet Mexican Pancakes: why they’re so special, how to prepare them, creative variations, and tips to elevate your experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
You likely already have everything you need in your pantry: flour, sugar, egg, milk, baking powder, butter, and vanilla. No need for special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients.

2. A Beloved Family Favorite
These are the kinds of treats that get passed down through generations. Whether you grew up with them or are discovering them for the first time, gorditas de azúcar bring a homey warmth to your kitchen.

3. Ready in Under 30 Minutes
Perfect for busy mornings, spontaneous cravings, or when you need a quick dessert without heating the oven.

4. Customizable
Add spices, fillings, or toppings to suit your tastes. From cinnamon to shredded coconut or even a chocolate drizzle, these pancakes are your canvas.

5. Great for All Ages
Kids love their soft texture and mild sweetness, while adults appreciate their simplicity and nostalgic flavor.

Ingredients

To make around 10–12 small gorditas (depending on size), you’ll need the following:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• ¾ cup whole milk

• 2 tablespoons melted butter (plus more for greasing the skillet)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional for finishing:

• Extra sugar for sprinkling

• Cinnamon for dusting

• Honey or jam for serving

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agent and gives your pancakes a balanced texture.

Step 2: Whisk Wet Ingredients

In a separate small bowl, beat the egg, then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully blended.

Step 3: Make the Dough

Slowly pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir with a spoon until a rough dough begins to form. Once it gets too thick to mix with a spoon, switch to your hands and knead gently for about 2 to 3 minutes. The dough should be soft, smooth, and only slightly sticky. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour; if too dry, add a teaspoon or two of milk.

Step 4: Let It Rest (Optional But Recommended)

Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the flour to fully hydrate, making the dough easier to roll out.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Lightly flour a clean surface and your rolling pin. Roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter or glass (approximately 3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles. Re-roll scraps until you’ve used all the dough.

Step 6: Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with a bit of butter. Place several gorditas on the skillet and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’re looking for a golden, slightly crisp exterior with a soft, pillowy center.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Transfer cooked gorditas to a plate lined with a towel to keep them warm while you cook the remaining ones. Sprinkle with sugar or cinnamon sugar while still warm if desired.

Variations

Cinnamon Sugar Gorditas

Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dough and roll the finished pancakes in cinnamon sugar right after cooking. This gives a churro-like vibe.

Coconut Gorditas

Mix ¼ cup shredded sweetened coconut into the dough for texture and added sweetness. Toasted coconut on top also makes a lovely finish.

Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Fold mini chocolate chips into the dough before rolling and cutting. They’ll melt slightly when cooked, making them even more irresistible.

Vegan Version

Substitute the milk with almond or oat milk, use flaxseed mixed with water in place of the egg, and opt for a plant-based butter or coconut oil.

Filled Gorditas

Before cutting your rounds, spread a little jam, dulce de leche, or sweet cream cheese in the center of one layer of dough, cover with another, and seal the edges. Cook gently until golden on both sides.

Traditional Roots and Cultural Significance

Gorditas de azúcar are often found in local bakeries (panaderías) throughout Mexico and are a cherished part of Mexican cuisine. Though they resemble American-style pancakes, they’re closer to thick, sweet tortillas or soft biscuits cooked on a griddle.

In many families, these sweet pancakes are made in large batches to serve with breakfast or as an afternoon snack. They’re often enjoyed with coffee, Mexican hot chocolate, or café de olla. Unlike store-bought treats, gorditas are lovingly made by hand — a practice that adds warmth to their already comforting flavor.

For some, they may bring back childhood memories of mornings in abuela’s kitchen. For others, they’re a new tradition waiting to be created.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Style

Serve them warm, plain or with a light dusting of sugar. They’re satisfying all on their own.

With Condiments

Offer a selection of spreads: fruit preserves, dulce de leche, honey, or chocolate sauce.

As a Dessert Base

Use them as the base for mini desserts. Top with whipped cream and fruit, or serve warm under a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pack Them To-Go

Wrap in parchment or place in a lunchbox for a sweet snack at school or work. They’re just as good at room temperature.

Holiday Twist

Around holidays, you can shape them into hearts, stars, or other festive shapes using cookie cutters. Sprinkle with colored sugar for a festive flair.

Tips for Success

• Don’t over-knead: Gentle kneading is enough. Overworking the dough can make the gorditas tough.

• Watch the skillet temperature: Too hot and the outside burns before the inside cooks. Medium heat is best.

• Roll evenly: Uneven dough leads to uneven cooking. Keep the thickness consistent.

• Grease lightly: You want just enough butter or oil to prevent sticking, not to deep-fry.

• Serve fresh: They taste best warm off the skillet, though they’re also good reheated.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 10–12 pancakes

Nutritional Information (Per Pancake)

• Calories: 140

• Carbohydrates: 25g

• Sugars: 7g

• Protein: 3g

• Fat: 3.5g

• Saturated Fat: 1.5g

• Sodium: 90mg

• Fiber: 0.5g

These values are approximate and may vary based on the size of your pancakes and any additional ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before rolling and cooking.

Can I freeze cooked gorditas?
Absolutely. Allow them to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, warm in a skillet or toaster oven until heated through.

What kind of flour should I use?
All-purpose flour works best. For a slightly denser result, you can experiment with whole wheat flour, but adjust liquid as needed.

Are they meant to be super sweet?
No. Gorditas de azúcar are lightly sweet. They’re more like sweet bread than dessert. However, you can increase the sugar in the dough if you prefer.

What if I don’t have a rolling pin?
You can use a clean glass, bottle, or press the dough out gently by hand until it reaches the right thickness.

Conclusion

Sweet Mexican Pancakes, or Gorditas de Azúcar, are proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones that linger longest in our memories. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that comforts, delights, and connects generations. Whether served as breakfast, a snack, or a sweet ending to a meal, these pancakes are bound to become a regular in your kitchen.

They remind us that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful. It’s in the quiet rituals — the mixing, the kneading, the warmth of the skillet — that we find nourishment and joy. So the next time you need a touch of sweetness in your day, reach for this recipe. You might just find yourself making a new tradition.

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