DESSERT

The Sonoran Coyotas: A Sweet Treasure from Northern Mexico

Detailed Introduction

Sonoran coyotas are a traditional dessert from the state of Sonora, Mexico. They are a delicious cookie filled with piloncillo, with a crunchy exterior and a sweet, soft center. They are highly prized in Sonoran cuisine and are part of the region’s culinary identity.

The name “coyota” has historical and cultural roots and has become synonymous with tradition and flavor. These cookies have transcended generations, symbolizing the ingenuity and creativity of local bakers. Their simple ingredients and preparation method make them accessible to anyone who wants to try an authentic Mexican dessert.

Coyotas are ideal with a cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or even a good hot chocolate. In some bakeries in Sonora, you can find versions filled with other ingredients such as cajeta, dulce de leche, jam, or nuts, adapting to different tastes without losing their essence.

History of the Coyotas

Coyotas originate in the state of Sonora, where they began to be made in the 19th century. It is said that their creation was a result of the Spanish influence on Mexican baking, combined with local ingredients and the ingenuity of Sonoran bakers.

The traditional recipe used lard, wheat flour, and piloncillo , common ingredients in northern Mexican cuisine. Over time, they became popular in different regions and are now a culinary symbol of Sonora.

The name “coyota” has several theories about its origin. Some believe it comes from the interbreeding of Indigenous people and Spaniards, as the word “coyote” in Mexico is also used to describe a person of mixed ancestry. Another theory suggests they were named for their golden, rustic appearance, resembling a coyote’s fur.

Currently, coyotas are a highly sought-after product in Sonora and other parts of the country. In cities like Hermosillo, it’s common to find bakeries specializing in their preparation, where they are handcrafted with their characteristic traditional flavor.

History of the Sonoran Coyotas

Sonoran coyotas have a history dating back to the late 19th century in the state of Sonora, Mexico . This sweet bread is believed to have originated in the city of Hermosillo , when local families began experimenting with basic ingredients available in the region, such as wheat flour and piloncillo, a traditional Mexican sweetener.

The origin of the name “coyota” is not entirely clear, but it is said to come from a woman of mixed race who made these piloncillo-filled cookies. In the colonial and post-colonial era, coyotas were women born from a mixture of Indigenous and Spanish families. According to legend, a woman of mixed race popularized the recipe in the markets of Sonora, and over time, the cookies adopted her nickname.

Coyotas became a staple food for Sonoran families and began to be sold in local bakeries and markets. With the growth of food commerce and industrialization, this artisanal recipe was adapted to different production styles. However, many families still prefer to make them in the traditional way, maintaining the original flavor and texture.

Initially, piloncillo was the traditional filling, as it was an affordable and widely used sweetener in Mexican cuisine. Over time, variations with dulce de leche, jam, cajeta, chocolate, and nuts emerged , expanding the options available to consumers.

Today, coyotas are not only a source of pride in Sonoran cuisine, but they have also crossed borders, reaching other parts of Mexico and Mexican communities in the United States and Canada . Thanks to their unique flavor and versatility, coyotas remain a timeless tradition, keeping Sonora’s culinary legacy alive.

Coyotas Today

Today, coyotas can be found in bakeries, supermarkets, and stores specializing in Mexican products. However, the most appreciated are still those made at home or in artisan bakeries, where the original recipe is respected and quality ingredients are used. Furthermore, their preparation remains a family activity in many homes, where generations share the tradition of baking them together.

Coyotas are more than just a dessert; they represent an important part of Sonoran culture and reflect the creativity of Mexican cuisine. Their history and evolution demonstrate how a dish can remain relevant over time and continue to conquer palates both in Mexico and abroad.

Sonoran coyotas are a traditional dessert from the state of Sonora, Mexico. They are large, crispy cookies filled with piloncillo, whose sweet flavor and unique texture have won over generations. This delicious sweet bread is an icon of Sonoran cuisine and a testament to the culinary richness of northern Mexico.

Coyotas are appreciated for their simplicity, as they require only a few basic ingredients such as flour, butter, sugar, and piloncillo. Despite their simplicity, their flavor is exceptional, and their artisanal preparation process makes them a special dessert. Their name and origin are surrounded by history and tradition, which has allowed this recipe to remain relevant over time.

Today, coyotas are not only consumed in Sonora, but have become popular in other parts of Mexico and in Mexican communities abroad. In addition to the classic piloncillo filling, there are modern versions with cajeta, dulce de leche, jam, and nuts, demonstrating their versatility and adaptability to different tastes.

Coyotas are perfect to enjoy at any time of day, whether for breakfast, as a dessert, or paired with a good cup of coffee or hot chocolate. Preparing them at home is an excellent way to preserve tradition and share a piece of Sonoran culture with your family.

In this article, we’ll explore the history of coyotas, their ingredients, their preparation process, and some tips for enjoying them to the fullest. Discover why this traditional sweet is a true treasure of Mexican bakery!

Ingredients
For the dough:
500g wheat flour
200g vegetable shortening
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup warm water (approximately)
For the filling:
300g grated piloncillo (you can substitute with muscovado or brown sugar)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional: chopped walnuts or almonds to add texture to the filling.
Preparation
1. In a large bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the shortening and begin to incorporate the ingredients until you get a sandy consistency.
3. Gradually add the warm water while kneading until the mixture becomes a soft, homogeneous dough. The dough should not stick to your hands.
4. Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for 20-30 minutes.
5. In a bowl, mix the grated piloncillo with the ground cinnamon. If you’re using walnuts or almonds, add them at this point.
6. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
7. Take small portions of the dough and roll them out into a circular shape (approximately 10 cm in diameter).
8. Place a tablespoon of the piloncillo filling in the center of a dough circle.
9. Cover with another dough circle and press the edges with your fingers or a fork to seal well.
10. Make small pricks with a fork on the top to prevent the coyotas from puffing too much during baking.
11. Place the coyotas on a baking sheet lined with waxed or greased paper.
12. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
13. Let cool slightly and enjoy the coyotas warm or at room temperature.

Questions and Other Relevant Information

  1. What is coyota dough made of?
    • The dough for coyotas is made with wheat flour, lard (vegetable or pork), sugar, salt, baking powder, and warm water.
  2. What is the traditional filling for coyotas?
    • The classic filling is grated piloncillo with cinnamon, although there are variations with cajeta, dulce de leche, jams, and nuts.
  3. Can you make coyotas without lard?
    • Yes, it is possible to substitute lard with vegetable shortening or even butter, although the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
  4. What is the best way to conserve coyotas?
    • It is recommended to store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming hard.
  5. What drink can be paired with coyotas?
    • They are perfect with coffee, hot chocolate, atole or milk.

Questions about the Sonoran Coyotas

  1. What is the origin of coyotas and why are they called that?
  2. What ingredients are essential for preparing a traditional coyota?
  3. What other fillings, besides piloncillo, can be used in coyotas?
  4. How has the coyotas recipe evolved over time?
  5. What is the difference between homemade and industrial coyotes?
  6. On what occasions are coyotas usually consumed in Sonora?
  7. What importance do coyotas have in Sonoran gastronomy?
  8. Are there healthy or gluten-free versions of coyotas?
  9. How can coyotas be preserved to keep them fresh?
  10. Can coyotas be found in other states of Mexico or only in Sonora?

Other Information about the Sonoran Coyotas

Filling Variants

Although piloncillo is the traditional filling for coyotas, today there are many variations that include:

  • Cajeta (sweet milk)
  • Fruit jams (strawberry, guava, apple)
  • Chocolate
  • Walnut or almonds
  • Date paste (very popular in northern Mexico)
  • Cheese with piloncillo

Tips for Better Preparation

  • Choose a good butter: Lard gives a more authentic flavor, but if you prefer a lighter option, vegetable shortening works too.
  • Don’t overfill the filling: If you put too much piloncillo, the coyotas may split open during baking.
  • Prick the top with a fork: This prevents the dough from puffing up too much and allows for better baking.
  • Use a well-preheated oven: For a crispy outside and soft inside, bake at 180°C (350°F).
  • Store them properly: If you want to keep them fresh longer, store them in an airtight container. They can also be frozen and reheated in the oven.

What can they be accompanied with?

Coyotas are delicious on their own, but can also be enjoyed with:

  • Pot coffee 
  • Hot chocolate Vanilla or guava atole 
  • Cold milk 

Coyotas are more than just a dessert; they’re a Sonoran tradition passed down from generation to generation. Don’t hesitate to make them and share them with your loved ones!

Detailed Conclusion

Sonoran coyotas represent a jewel of Mexican cuisine , specifically in the north of the country. Their humble origins and delicious flavor have made them a beloved and appreciated dessert for many generations.

Its preparation is simple yet reflects the richness of Sonora’s baking tradition. Although variations in its filling have emerged, the essence of the coyota remains the same: a crispy cookie with a sweet interior that captivates the palates of all who try it.

More than just a dessert, coyotas symbolize history, culture, and tradition , uniting families around their unmistakable flavor. Whether in a traditional Hermosillo bakery or in the kitchen of any home, their legacy lives on, sweetening the daily lives of those who enjoy this Sonoran delicacy.

Go ahead and make them and discover why coyotas are one of Mexico’s most iconic sweets!

Sonoran coyotas are not only a delicious traditional dessert, but they also encapsulate the history and gastronomic identity of the state of Sonora, Mexico . Their origin dates back to the 19th century, when families began making these filled cookies as a way to take advantage of local ingredients and satisfy their sweet tooth. Over time, coyotas have evolved from a homemade recipe to an icon of Sonoran pastries, available in traditional bakeries and markets.

One of the reasons coyotas remain so beloved is their versatility . Although the classic filling is piloncillo, there are now versions with cajeta, chocolate, jams, nuts, and even innovative combinations that give this traditional dessert a modern twist. Their unique flavor, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, makes them the ideal companion to a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

In addition to their flavor, coyotas have great cultural value. They have become a symbol of Sonoran hospitality and tradition , as many families make them at home and share them with their loved ones, keeping the recipe alive generation after generation. Their popularity has transcended Sonora’s borders, and today they can be found in different parts of Mexico and even abroad, thanks to the Sonoran diaspora.

Preparing coyotas at home is a way to preserve tradition and connect with the history of Mexican cuisine. The recipe is simple and accessible, allowing anyone to enjoy the authentic Sonoran flavor at home. It’s also an excellent opportunity to experiment with new fillings and adapt them to your personal taste.

In conclusion, coyotas are more than just a dessert; they’re a culinary heritage steeped in history, flavor, and traditionWhether you prepare them at home or enjoy them at a traditional bakery, each bite is a tribute to Sonora’s culinary richness. There’s no better way to learn about a place’s culture than through its food, and coyotas are the perfect treat to do just that!