magdalena
/maɡdaˈlena/
The English phrase "muffin" can be translated into Spanish as magdalena.
magdalena refers to a cupcake-shaped baked good. In some areas, particularly in Central America or countries with a strong English influence, the term muffin is used as is, although with a Spanish accent.
Meaning: cupcake-shaped baked good, American muffin (noun)
Which one should you use?
In certain countries like Argentina or parts of South America, budín might be used to refer to muffins or similar baked goods.
How do you pronounce it?
/maɡdaˈlena/
Did you know?
- The term magdalena shares its name with 'Mary Magdalene', though the cake's connection to the saint is a matter of historical debate.
- The word magdalena is a calque of the French 'madeleine'.
- The word magdalena is not just a name for a pastry, but is also a common female given name in Spanish-speaking countries.
Examples in context
- Voy a comprar unos muffins para el desayunoI'm going to buy some muffins for breakfast.
- Me gusta esta magdalena de chocolate.I like this chocolate muffin.
- Compré una magdalena en la panadería.I bought a muffin at the bakery.
- ¿Quieres una magdalena con tu café?Do you want a muffin with your coffee?
Example conversation
Lucía and Daniel are having breakfast at home.
- DanielDaniel, ¿quieres una magdalena?Daniel, do you want a muffin?
- LucíaSí, gracias Lucía, se ve muy buena.Yes, thanks Lucía, it looks very good.
- DanielEsta magdalena tiene mucho azúcar.This muffin has a lot of sugar.
- LucíaNo importa, me encanta lo dulce.It doesn't matter, I love sweet things.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry magdalena, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries magdalena, CC BY-SA 4.0.
