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Authentic Mexican Marranitos Molasses Gingerbread Pigs Recipe

Indulge in the irresistible magic of Authentic Mexican Marranitos! These aren't your average gingerbread pigs; these molasses-rich treats, also known as cochinos or puerquitos, boast a moist, rich crumb beneath a glossy, subtly flaky top. Unlike traditional gingerbread, they're delightfully spiced with cinnamon (and optionally ginger!), relying on molasses for their deep, spicy-brown flavor. Marco Rangel, of Fort Worth's Panaderia San Marcos, shares his family bakery's secret recipe, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth marranitos, perfectly sized (around 4.5 inches) for a delightful treat. This recipe allows you to customize the texture; adjust the baking soda for extra-fluffy pigs! Prepare to be amazed by this unique and delicious Mexican-American tradition.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Calories 361 kcal
Protein 12g
Rating 3.9 (12 Reviews)
Authentic Mexican Marranitos Molasses Gingerbread Pigs 91

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Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Authentic Mexican Marranitos Molasses Gingerbread Pigs

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How to Make Authentic Mexican Marranitos Molasses Gingerbread Pigs

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1 cup shortening, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (and 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, optional), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until a firm paste forms.
  3. Add 1/2 cup molasses, 1 large egg, and 1/4 cup milk; mix well after each addition.
  4. Gradually add 3 cups all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed to prevent sticking.
  5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it to 1/4 inch thickness.
  6. Use a large pig-shaped cookie cutter (approximately 4.5 inches) to cut out the marranitos.
  7. Place the marranitos onto the prepared baking sheets.
  8. In a small bowl, lightly whisk 1 large egg with 1 tablespoon of milk (for an egg wash, or use a milk wash for a dairy-free option).
  9. Gently brush the tops of the marranitos with the egg wash.
  10. Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and the centers are set. Check for doneness at 15 minutes.
  11. Let the marranitos cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

6 g

Sugar

121g

Fat

6g

Carbs

24g

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Cuisine Preparation Occasion North American Healthy Rolled Cookies Desserts Mexican Oven Easy Heirloom Historical Holiday Event Cakes Cookies And Brownies Dietary Taste Mood Sweet Equipment