Cortadillo, also known as Mexican Pink Cake, is a soft, spongy, and moist cake topped with vibrant pink frosting and colorful sprinkles. This classic Mexican bakery treat is a delightful balance of sweetness and texture, making it a favorite for birthdays, celebrations, and everyday indulgence. Its striking pink hue and festive decorations make it visually appealing, while its fluffy consistency keeps you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple ingredients that come together for a moist and flavorful cake.
Beautiful pink frosting with a light and airy texture.
Perfect for parties, celebrations, or as a sweet treat any day.
A nostalgic taste of Mexican panadería classics.
Easy to customize with different frosting colors and decorations.

Ingredients

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

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter
Eggs
Whole milk
Vanilla extract
Powdered sugar
Food coloring (pink)
Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In another large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
For the frosting, mix powdered sugar with a few drops of pink food coloring and a small amount of milk until smooth.
Spread the pink frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
Add sprinkles for decoration.
Let the frosting set before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 pieces
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Version: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate-flavored cortadillo.
Coconut Flavor: Mix shredded coconut into the batter for extra texture.
Citrus Twist: Add orange or lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing flavor.
Different Colors: Experiment with different food coloring for the frosting to match special occasions.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top for added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cortadillo in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.
To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
To enjoy again, let the cake come to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

How is cortadillo different from other Mexican cakes?

Cortadillo is known for its pink frosting and soft, spongy texture, making it distinct from other traditional Mexican cakes like tres leches.

Can I use a different frosting?

Yes! You can use a buttercream or cream cheese frosting if you prefer a richer topping.

What kind of sprinkles should I use?

Any colorful sprinkles work well, but classic rainbow sprinkles are the most traditional.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend.

Is this cake very sweet?

The cake itself is mildly sweet, but the pink frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, bake the cake a day in advance and frost it before serving for best results.

Do I need to refrigerate cortadillo?

Not necessarily, but if your home is warm, refrigeration helps keep the frosting firm.

Can I use a cake mix instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, a vanilla or yellow cake mix can be used for convenience.

What can I use instead of food coloring?

Beet juice or strawberry puree can be used as a natural pink color alternative.

How do I make the frosting thicker?

Add more powdered sugar to thicken the frosting to your desired consistency.

Conclusion

Cortadillo (Mexican Pink Cake) is a delightful and nostalgic treat that brings a pop of color and sweetness to any occasion. With its soft texture, vibrant frosting, and fun sprinkles, it’s a joy to make and share. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just indulging in a slice of Mexican panadería tradition, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy baking and savor every bite!