(Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Cookies with a Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture)
Hojarascas are traditional Mexican cinnamon cookies known for their delicate, crumbly texture and warm cinnamon flavor. These beloved cookies are especially popular during holidays, weddings, quinceañeras, and family celebrations. Their name comes from the Spanish word “hojarasca,” meaning “dry leaf,” because the cookies are light, delicate, and crumble beautifully.
A favorite in many Mexican households, Hojarascas are simple, nostalgic, and perfect with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
Full Recipe (Ingredients + Instructions)
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter or lard, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup warm milk (add gradually as needed)
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, cream together:
- Butter (or lard)
- Sugar
until light and smooth.
Add:
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon
- Salt
Mix well.
Gradually add:
- Flour
- Baking powder
Slowly add warm milk until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Roll & Cut
Place dough on a lightly floured surface.
Roll to about:
¼-inch thickness
Cut into shapes using:
⭐ Cookie cutters
⭐ A small round cutter
⭐ A knife to make squares
Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake
Bake for:
12–15 minutes
until the edges are lightly golden.
Do not overbake—Hojarascas should stay tender and crumbly.
Step 4: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
While cookies are still warm:
Mix sugar and cinnamon together.
Gently toss or sprinkle cookies with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Let cool completely before serving.
Extra Recipe Tips & Variations ✨
🐷 Traditional Lard Version
Using lard creates the most authentic Mexican bakery-style texture.
🌰 Nutty Hojarascas
Add:
- Chopped pecans
- Walnuts
for extra richness.
🍊 Orange Cinnamon Hojarascas
Add 1 teaspoon of orange zest for a beautiful citrus flavor.
🍫 Chocolate Twist
Add a little cocoa powder to the dough for chocolate cinnamon cookies.
🌿 Anise Flavor
Add a pinch of ground anise for a traditional bakery-style variation.
Flavor Upgrades / Secret Tips 🔥
✅ Use real cinnamon (Mexican cinnamon, if available) for a warmer flavor.
✅ Do not overwork the dough—this keeps cookies tender.
✅ Chill dough for 20–30 minutes if it feels too soft.
✅ Coat cookies while warm so the cinnamon sugar sticks perfectly.
✅ They taste even better the next day!
Serving Ideas 🍽️
Serve with:
☕ Café de olla
🍫 Mexican hot chocolate
🥛 Cold milk
🍵 Tea
Perfect for:
- Christmas cookies
- Weddings
- Día de los Muertos celebrations
- Holiday cookie trays
- Family gatherings
Storage Tips 🥡
Room Temperature:
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer:
Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate)
Per cookie:
- Calories: 120–160 kcal
- Protein: 1–2 g
- Carbohydrates: 15–20 g
- Fat: 7–10 g
(Values vary depending on cookie size and ingredients.)
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Why are my Hojarascas falling apart?
A: They are naturally delicate, but if they crumble too much, the dough may need a little more moisture.
Q: Can I use shortening instead of butter?
A: Yes. Shortening creates a very tender, crumbly cookie.
Q: Are Hojarascas the same as Mexican wedding cookies?
A: They are similar, but Hojarascas are usually cinnamon-flavored and coated with cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes! Refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days before baking.
Social Media Captions ❤️
Facebook Style:
“These Hojarascas bring back the sweetest memories of Mexican kitchens. 🇲🇽🍪 A buttery, cinnamon-sugar cookie that melts in your mouth and fills the house with the smell of warm spices.”
Instagram Style:
“A bite of tradition in every crumb. 🍪✨ Homemade Hojarascas are pure comfort.”
Short Viral Caption:
“The Mexican cinnamon cookie you need to try! 🇲🇽🤎”
Family Memory Style:
“Some recipes are more than desserts—they are memories passed down through generations. ❤️ These Hojarascas remind us of family, celebrations, and the love baked into every cookie.”
Final Food Description 🍴
Hojarascas are traditional Mexican cinnamon cookies made with a tender, buttery dough and coated in sweet cinnamon sugar. Light, crumbly, and full of warm spice, these classic cookies are a treasured part of Mexican baking traditions and the perfect treat to share with family and friends. 🇲🇽🍪✨