magdalenas
/maɡdalenas/from spelling rules
The English phrase "cupcakes" is translated into Spanish as magdalenas.
The term refers to small cakes baked in a cup-shaped pan. In many Spanish-speaking countries, the English word cupcakes is used as a loanword to distinguish heavily frosted cupcakes from traditional magdalenas.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, panquecitos is a term used for cupcakes.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word magdalena is a feminine noun, so any accompanying adjectives must also be feminine, such as magdalenas dulces (sweet cupcakes).
How do you pronounce it?
/maɡdalenas/
Did you know?
- The word magdalena is named after a specific person, likely Saint Mary Magdalene, rather than the shape of the cake itself.
- In Spain, magdalenas are traditionally eaten for breakfast, often dipped into coffee or hot chocolate, rather than being served as a dessert.
- The Mexican term panquecito comes from the word panqué, which is a phonetic adaptation of the English word 'pound cake'.
Examples in context
- Me encanta comer panquecitos en el desayuno.I love eating cupcakes for breakfast.
- Las magdalenas son muy dulces.The cupcakes are very sweet.
- ¿Quieres comer unas magdalenas?Do you want to eat some cupcakes?
- Compré magdalenas para la fiesta.I bought cupcakes for the party.
Example conversation
Daniel and Elena are in a kitchen preparing for a snack.
- DanielElena, ¿hiciste las magdalenas?Elena, did you make the cupcakes?
- ElenaSí, Daniel, están en la mesa.Yes, Daniel, they are on the table.
- Daniel¡Qué bien! Tienen un aspecto delicioso.Great! They look delicious.
- ElenaGracias, espero que te gusten.Thanks, I hope you like them.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
