A candy-filled piñata is the joyful centerpiece of Mexican posadas and birthday celebrations. This festive, family tradition is a colorful, fun experience that brings everyone together.
Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Prepare a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cut the flour tortillas into wide strips or decorative shapes to create the outer piñata shell pieces.
Whisk egg whites and water until frothy. Lightly brush the tortilla strips with the egg white mixture for crisping, then sprinkle with colored sugar as desired.
Drape the tortilla pieces over an inverted oven-safe bowl or paper cone to form a rounded shape. Bake low and slow (250°F) for 45-55 minutes, rotating the oven rack halfway, until fully crisped and dry—avoid high heat to prevent burning.
Let the tortilla shell pieces cool completely. Gently release and assemble the pieces using additional egg white or a dab of syrup to stick edges together, leaving an opening at the top.
Fill the piñata shell with assorted wrapped candies. Secure the opening with a final decorated tortilla piece, sealing gently with egg white mixture.
Let the constructed piñata rest 20 minutes for the 'glue' to set before serving or enjoying as a centerpiece.