6 Latino‑Inspired Holiday Desserts

Between the cookies, candies, cakes, flans, and hot beverages, there’s no doubt that Christmas is the sweetest time of year. If your family kicks things off at the start of the month going right through Noche Buena or Día de Los Reyes, you know just how much preparing and cooking it takes to pull off 9 straight nights of posadas, family and friend gatherings and getting ready for the Christmas feast.

Even when different households take turns hosting, the Christmas season calls for some serious heavy lifting in the dessert department. After all, what’s a Christmas feast without dessert? We’re here to help. These 6 recipes bring traditional—or at least traditional with a couple of twists—Christmas treats to life with the goodness of fresh dairy. No matter what other dishes feature on your menu, these desserts will add the special sweet touch to wow your guests.


Oaxacan Hot Chocolate

Oaxacan Hot Chocolate

Rich chocolate from Oaxaca with a touch of cinnamon sets this hot chocolate apart. The cinnamon adds the perfect amount of spice, while whipping it to create a decadently thick, frothy texture.

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Traditional Mexican Atole with a Touch of Chocolate

Traditional Mexican Atole with a Touch of Chocolate

Whether you call it Atole with Chocolate or Champurrado, this warm, comforting, beverage warms your heart and gives you that extra lift during the busy holiday season.

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Spiced Flan

Spiced Flan

Take your flan to the next level with a flurry of warm spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, star anise, cardamom, and ginger) and a hint of citrus zest.

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Churro Bowl with Mexican Hot Fudge

Churro Bowl with Mexican Hot Fudge

What’s better than churros con chocolate? How about churro shaped bowls, filled with creamy delicious ice cream, and drizzled with spiced hot fudge sauce? It’s the perfect treat for sharing a sweet holiday moment with your family.

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Dulce de Leche

Dulce de Leche

Homemade dulce de leche takes a while to make, but it’s so worth the time —especially around the holidays. Try it as a topping for ice cream or churros, a spread on your toast or obleas, or just a delicious treat to eat by the spoonful.

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Tres Leches Cake

Tres Leches Cake

Tres Leches cake is a classic for a reason, and this recipe keeps it traditional. Why mess with perfection?

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