Coyotas: A Beginner-Friendly Guide to Making Traditional Mexican Cookies

Coyotas are a beloved Mexican treat, particularly famous in the state of Sonora. These rustic, golden-brown cookies are filled with rich, caramelized brown sugar, creating a delightful contrast between the crisp exterior and soft, sweet filling. Originally enjoyed as a homemade snack, coyotas have become a staple in Mexican bakeries, often paired with coffee or hot chocolate.

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What makes coyotas perfect for beginner bakers is their simplicity. The dough is easy to work with, the ingredients are pantry-friendly, and the process does not require advanced baking techniques. If you are looking for a straightforward yet delicious dessert to add to your holiday cookie exchange or everyday baking routine, this recipe is an excellent choice.

Additionally, coyotas can be customized to suit different tastes. While the traditional filling consists of piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar), brown sugar is a great alternative that is more commonly available. The dough is similar to a pastry crust, making it light and flaky, and you can experiment with different fillings to create your own variations.

Now, let’s break down everything you need to know to make a successful batch of coyotas, from ingredients to step-by-step instructions, tips, and serving suggestions.

Ingredients and Alternatives

For the dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the dough, providing structure and texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps create a slightly airy texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• ½ cup lard or vegetable shortening – Adds richness and flakiness to the dough. If you prefer, you can substitute butter for a slightly different texture.
• 1 egg – Binds the dough and adds tenderness.
• ½ cup water – Helps bring the dough together and makes it easier to work with.

For the filling:

• 1 cup Imperial brown sugar – The key ingredient for the sweet, caramel-like filling.
• ½ cup water – Helps dissolve the sugar into a smooth syrup.
• 1 cinnamon stick – Adds warmth and depth to the filling.

Alternative ingredient suggestions:

• If you prefer a deeper flavor, you can replace the brown sugar with piloncillo, which is the traditional sweetener used in coyotas.
• Adding a pinch of ground cinnamon to the dough enhances the warmth of the flavors.
• If you want a slightly crispier texture, you can use a mix of butter and vegetable shortening instead of lard.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
2. Cut the lard or vegetable shortening into small pieces and add it to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the fat into the flour until the mixture has a sandy, crumbly texture.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and mix it with the water. Gradually pour the liquid into the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough lightly until it is smooth and well combined. Be careful not to over-knead, as this can make the cookies tough.
5. Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for 20–30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, water, and cinnamon stick. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Continue cooking the mixture until it thickens slightly into a syrup-like consistency. This should take about 5–7 minutes.
3. Remove the cinnamon stick and let the filling cool before using it.

Step 3: Assemble the Coyotas

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about ⅛-inch thickness.
3. Use a round cutter (about 4 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the dough.
4. Place a small spoonful of the brown sugar filling in the center of half of the circles. Be careful not to overfill, as the sugar can ooze out while baking.
5. Cover each filled circle with another piece of dough and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
6. Poke small holes on the top of each cookie using a fork. This allows steam to escape and prevents the cookies from puffing too much.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Arrange the prepared cookies on the baking sheet, leaving space between them.
2. Bake for 18–22 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown.
3. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• How to prevent tough dough: Avoid over-kneading the dough. Knead just until the ingredients come together smoothly.
• Keeping the filling from leaking: Make sure to properly seal the edges of the cookies by pressing firmly and using a fork to crimp the edges.
• Making uniform cookies: Roll out the dough evenly to ensure that all cookies bake at the same rate.
• Checking doneness: The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges. If they are too pale, they may need a few extra minutes in the oven.

If you accidentally overfill the cookies and some filling leaks out, don’t worry. The caramelized edges can still be delicious and give the coyotas a homemade charm.

Serving Suggestions

Coyotas are best enjoyed fresh, either warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with:

• A cup of coffee or Mexican hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast between warm and cold.
• A drizzle of honey or dulce de leche for extra sweetness.

For a fun twist, you can experiment with different fillings, such as:

• A mixture of brown sugar and finely chopped nuts for added texture.
• A layer of chocolate spread for a fusion of flavors.
• A spiced fruit filling, such as apple-cinnamon or guava paste.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, coyotas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them in a sealed container for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

Final Thoughts: A Cookie Worth Sharing

Coyotas are a wonderful introduction to traditional Mexican baking, offering a rewarding experience for beginner bakers. The combination of crisp pastry and rich brown sugar filling makes them a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re making them for a special occasion or as an everyday treat.

Baking is not just about following a recipe—it’s about enjoying the process and sharing something homemade with loved ones. If you try this recipe, don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and fillings to make it your own.

Have you made coyotas before, or do you have a favorite variation? Share your experience in the comments and let’s celebrate the joy of baking together.