Mexican Pink Cookies (Polvorones Rosas)

Mexican Pink Cookies, also known as Polvorones Rosas, are vibrant, soft, and crumbly shortbread-style cookies with a signature pink hue. Often found in Mexican bakeries, these cookies are made with simple ingredients but are bursting with nostalgic flavor and festive charm. Their eye-catching color and buttery texture make them a standout treat for celebrations or any time you want something sweet and special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fun and colorful – Their bright pink color adds joy to any dessert table.
• Simple ingredients – Made with pantry staples, no fancy tools required.
• Soft and crumbly texture – Like a perfect cross between shortbread and sugar cookies.
• Versatile – Flavor them with vanilla, almond, or citrus zest to change things up.
• Perfect for gifting – Their festive look makes them ideal for holidays and birthdays.

this Recipe

Ingredients

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

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

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a dough forms.
6. Add a few drops of red or pink food coloring and mix until the color is evenly distributed.
7. Scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls, about 1½ inches in diameter. Flatten each slightly with your hand or the bottom of a glass.
8. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
9. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
10. Let cool on the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 20–24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Flavor twist – Add almond extract or orange zest for a different taste.
• Decorative touch – Use colored sugar or sprinkles before baking for a festive look.
• Filled version – Sandwich two cookies with jam or dulce de leche.
• Vegan option – Use vegan butter and a flax egg substitute.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing – Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the bake time.
• Reheating – These cookies don’t need reheating, but if you want them warm, heat briefly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

What gives these cookies their pink color?

The pink color comes from food coloring. A few drops of red or pink gel food coloring are enough to get that classic shade.

Can I make them without food coloring?

Yes, they’ll still taste delicious—just skip the coloring or use a natural alternative like beet powder.

Are Polvorones Rosas the same as shortbread?

They’re similar in texture but slightly softer and sweeter, often flavored with vanilla and colored pink.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

You can, but butter gives a richer flavor and better texture.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum.

What’s the best way to keep them fresh?

Store them in an airtight container away from heat or moisture to maintain their texture.

Can I use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar in the dough?

It’s not recommended, as it changes the texture. Stick with granulated sugar for the dough.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

They should be lightly golden on the bottom but still pale on top. Don’t overbake—they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. These cookies freeze well and are great to have on hand for unexpected guests.

Are these cookies traditional for any holidays?

Yes, they’re often enjoyed during Christmas, birthdays, and festive gatherings in Mexican culture.

Conclusion

Mexican Pink Cookies (Polvorones Rosas) are as beautiful as they are delicious. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture, nostalgic flavor, and cheerful color, they’re a perfect addition to any celebration or just a sweet way to brighten your day. Whether you make them for a holiday or simply because you’re craving something pretty and pink, these cookies will win over everyone who tries them.

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