With its warm flavors and delightful aroma, Pan de Muerto, also known as Day of the Dead Bread, is a traditional Mexican recipe that holds a special place in holiday celebrations. This festive bread is typically baked and enjoyed during Día de los Muertos, a time to honor loved ones who have passed away. The sweet, citrus-infused dough is shaped into a round loaf, decorated with bone-shaped dough pieces, and sprinkled with sugar to symbolize the cycle of life and death. Join in the spirit of this meaningful tradition by baking your own Pan de Muerto with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Title: Pan De Muerto Day Of The Dead Bread
Ingredients:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– Zest of 1 orange
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Additional sugar for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Mix well.
2. Warm the milk slightly (not too hot) and add it to the dry ingredients along with orange juice and orange zest. Mix until well combined.
3. Add eggs, butter, vanilla extract, and the remaining flour gradually until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Divide the dough into 2 equal parts. Take one part and divide it into three smaller sections to form the “bones.” Roll out each section and shape into ropes, then press them together at one end to form a bone shape.
8. Take the larger portion of the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place the “bones” on top, crossing them to represent the circle of life and death.
9. Cover the bread with a towel and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the top with sugar while still warm.
12. Allow the Pan de Muerto to cool before serving and enjoying the delightful flavors of this traditional Mexican treat.
There you have it! Your homemade Pan de Muerto is ready to be shared with family and friends. Embrace the spirit of Día de los Muertos with this delicious bread that captures the essence of the holiday. Enjoy the process of making this festive treat and honor the tradition of celebrating life and remembering those who have passed on.
