Pan De Anís Anise Bread

During the festive season, it’s always wonderful to infuse your home with the warm scents of freshly baked goods. And what better way to celebrate the holiday season than by baking a traditional Mexican Christmas treat – Pan de Anís, also known as Anise Bread. This delectable bread is aromatic, slightly sweet, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. The blend of anise seeds adds a unique flavor that complements the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg. Follow along with this simple recipe to create your own Pan de Anís and bring a touch of Mexico to your holiday table.

**Pan De Anís (Anise Bread)**

**Ingredients:**
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 2 tbsp anise seeds
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
– 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tbsp water, for egg wash

**Instructions:**

1. **Activate the Yeast:**
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and water. Sprinkle the yeast over the liquid and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

2. **Prepare the Dough:**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, anise seeds, orange zest, and raisins if using. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter.

3. **Knead the Dough:**
Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10-15 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

4. **First Rise:**
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. **Shape the Bread:**
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a round loaf. Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. **Second Rise:**
Cover the loaves with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, until slightly puffed.

7. **Bake:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Brush the risen loaves with the egg wash. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. **Cool and Enjoy:**
Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Slice the Pan de Anís and serve it warm or at room temperature with a spread of butter or alongside a cup of Mexican hot chocolate. This bread is perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat to enjoy during the holiday season.

Whether you’re looking to add a touch of Mexican flair to your Christmas celebrations or simply craving a comforting baked good, Pan de Anís is a delightful recipe to try. The combination of fragrant spices and citrus notes makes this bread a standout addition to your holiday table. Enjoy the process of baking and sharing this delicious treat with your family and friends.