pastelito
“pastelito” means “small cake” in Spanish (general sweet treat).
small cake, pastry
Also: cupcake, patty
📝 In Action
Compré un pastelito de chocolate para la merienda.
A1I bought a small chocolate cake for my afternoon snack.
En Miami, los pastelitos de guayaba y queso son muy famosos.
A2In Miami, the guava and cheese pastries are very famous.
¿Prefieres los pastelitos dulces o los salados?
B1Do you prefer sweet pastries or savory ones?
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: pastelito
Question 1 of 3
What does the ending '-ito' tell you about the 'pastel'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Derived from the Spanish word 'pastel' (from Old French 'pastel' or 'paste'), with the addition of the Spanish diminutive suffix '-ito'.
First recorded: 18th century (in its current diminutive form)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 'pastelito' the same as an 'empanada'?
They are similar, but 'empanadas' are usually made with a heavier bread-like or corn dough, while 'pastelitos' (especially in the Caribbean) are made with light, flaky puff pastry.
Can I use 'pastelito' to describe a cupcake?
Yes! While 'cupcake' is often used in Spanish now, 'pastelito' is a perfectly natural way to describe any small, individual cake.
Does it always mean food?
Almost always. However, like many diminutives, it can be used as a term of endearment, though calling someone a 'pastelito' is much less common than 'terroncito de azúcar' (little sugar cube).