Dessert Taco Shells - knedir Recipes

These Dessert Taco Shells are an easy and fun way to bring a little sweetness to taco night. The crispy, cinnamon-sugar coating on the shells is the perfect contrast to a variety of fillings, whether you prefer whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or something more decadent like chocolate mousse.

For the perfect presentation, you can fill each taco shell with a dollop of creamy vanilla ice cream, drizzle with hot fudge sauce, or top with fresh fruit and whipped cream. You can also get creative and use these taco shells for party treats, offering a variety of fillings that your guests can choose from for a fun and interactive dessert experience.

Full Recipe:

8 small flour tortillas
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brush both sides of the flour tortillas with the melted butter.
In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the tortillas.
Carefully fold each tortilla into a taco shape and place them in a muffin tin to hold the shape while baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the taco shells are golden brown and crispy.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
If desired, sprinkle the mini chocolate chips inside the taco shell while they are still warm for a melty effect.
Serve the dessert taco shells with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, or fill them with your favorite sweet toppings like fresh fruit, pudding, or chocolate mousse.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal per taco shell | Servings: 8 servings

History and Origin

While tacos are a staple of Mexican cuisine, the concept of turning them into a dessert is relatively new. Tacos have long been enjoyed as savory dishes, but over the years, chefs and home cooks have experimented with the idea of sweet tacos to offer a new experience. Dessert tacos, particularly those made with cinnamon-sugar tortilla shells, are often seen at modern dessert bars and food trucks.

The origins of dessert tacos can be traced to the general Mexican tradition of creating sweet treats using flour tortillas. In Mexico, sweetened tortillas are sometimes stuffed with caramelized fruits, chocolate, or cinnamon. The concept of using a taco shell as the base for dessert is inspired by the versatility of tortillas, which are the cornerstone of Mexican cooking, and reflects the region’s ability to adapt traditional dishes into creative new forms. These taco shells offer a crispy, sweet base that perfectly complements the richness of various dessert fillings.

Though not traditionally Mexican, dessert taco shells have become a popular choice in fusion cuisine, especially in American and other global food cultures, where the taco is reimagined as a dessert. This evolution of the taco demonstrates the creativity and innovation in modern culinary trends, combining classic comfort foods with indulgent sweet elements.

Variations and Adaptations

Dessert taco shells offer ample room for creativity and experimentation. The base—crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated tortillas—can be adapted in various ways to fit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:

Gluten-Free Dessert Taco Shells: For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free tortillas can easily replace the traditional flour tortillas. They work just as well when baked with cinnamon and sugar to create the crispy shell that holds the sweet fillings.
Flavored Taco Shells: Experimenting with different sugars and spices can create unique flavors for your dessert taco shells. Try using brown sugar and nutmeg or adding a touch of vanilla extract to the butter before brushing it on the tortillas for an extra layer of flavor.
Tropical-Inspired Tacos: If you’re craving something more exotic, swap the typical fillings for tropical fruits such as mango, pineapple, and coconut. You could even add a dollop of coconut whipped cream to create a coconut-cream version of dessert taco shells that transports you to a tropical paradise.
Chocolate-Dipped Taco Shells: For a more indulgent variation, dip the taco shells in melted chocolate before baking, creating a rich, chocolatey crust. This variation works especially well if you’re filling the shells with vanilla or chocolate ice cream, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Frozen Dessert Taco Shells: You can also take the dessert taco concept to the next level by serving the taco shells frozen. Fill them with ice cream, freeze them for a couple of hours, and serve them as an ice cream taco treat. This is perfect for a hot summer day and a fun way to enjoy dessert.

Nutritional Information

While dessert taco shells may not be the healthiest option in terms of calories, they do offer some room for moderation and personalization. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional aspects:

Calories: Each dessert taco shell typically contains around 180-220 calories, depending on the size of the tortilla and the amount of sugar used. If you opt for a filling like ice cream or whipped cream, the calorie count will rise accordingly.
Fat: With butter or coconut oil used to coat the tortillas, the fat content in dessert taco shells is moderate. Each taco shell may contain about 10-12 grams of fat, particularly if you dip them in chocolate.
Carbohydrates: Since tortillas are primarily made of refined flour, dessert taco shells can be a source of simple carbohydrates. Expect about 25-30 grams of carbs per shell.
Protein: Dessert taco shells don’t provide much protein. However, if you fill them with protein-rich options like Greek yogurt, a nut butter filling, or even a high-protein ice cream, you can balance out the macronutrient profile.
Fiber: Due to the refined flour used in the tortillas, these dessert tacos are not a significant source of fiber. To boost the fiber content, you could opt for whole wheat tortillas or add high-fiber fruits as fillings.
Vitamins and Minerals: Dessert taco shells don’t provide significant amounts of vitamins or minerals unless they’re filled with nutrient-rich ingredients like fresh fruits or yogurt. Fresh fruits like berries, bananas, or citrus can enhance the vitamin C content and provide antioxidants.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Dessert taco shells are versatile and can be filled with a wide range of ingredients depending on your preferences. Here are a few ideas for fillings and pairings:

Classic Ice Cream Tacos: Fill each taco shell with a scoop of your favorite ice cream—vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry work well. Add toppings like sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or crushed nuts for added texture.
Fruit-Filled Tacos: For a lighter option, fill the taco shells with fresh seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or diced mango. A drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream can take these fruit tacos to the next level.
Chocolate Mousse Tacos: For an indulgent treat, fill the taco shells with rich chocolate mousse or pudding. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a decadent dessert.
Nut Butter and Banana Tacos: Spread peanut or almond butter inside the taco shell, add slices of banana, and top with honey or granola for a delightful combination of sweet and savory.
Whipped Cream Tacos: If you’re looking for a quick, no-fuss option, simply fill your taco shells with whipped cream and garnish with crushed cookies, fruit, or chocolate drizzle.

For beverages, a cold glass of milk pairs wonderfully with dessert tacos. Alternatively, for a more decadent experience, pair them with a dessert wine, like a sweet Moscato or a rich port.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure your dessert taco shells turn out perfectly every time, here are a few tips and tricks:

Use Fresh Tortillas: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh tortillas rather than ones that have been sitting in the pantry for a while. Fresh tortillas will crisp up beautifully when baked.
Don’t Overload the Filling: Dessert tacos are meant to be light and fun, so avoid overloading the taco shells with too much filling. A little bit goes a long way in balancing the sweetness of the shell with the filling.
Experiment with Flavors: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding different spices like cardamom or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture for a unique twist on the traditional cinnamon-sugar flavor.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your taco shells as they bake. Overbaking can lead to overly crunchy shells, while underbaking might result in a chewy texture. Aim for golden brown and crispy edges for the perfect taco shell.

Potential Health Benefits

Though dessert taco shells are indulgent, they do offer some potential health benefits, particularly when made with healthier fillings or ingredients. Fresh fruit-filled tacos provide vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. Using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup can be a healthier option compared to refined sugar.

If you opt for Greek yogurt or nut butters as fillings, you’ll add a boost of protein and healthy fats, making the dessert a little more balanced. In moderation, dessert tacos can be part of a well-rounded diet, especially if you fill them with nutrient-rich options and keep the sugar content in check.

Conclusion

Dessert taco shells are a fun and creative way to satisfy your sweet tooth. With endless possibilities for fillings, they can be adapted to suit any occasion, from casual family gatherings to special celebrations. Whether you fill them with creamy ice cream, fresh fruit, or decadent chocolate mousse, these dessert taco shells are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Try them out for your next party or family dinner, and let your creativity take the lead!