This festive season, immerse yourself in the warm flavors of Mexico with a delightful and traditional baking recipe perfect for Christmas celebrations. Pan De Miel, or Honey Bread, is a classic Mexican holiday treat that combines the sweetness of honey with aromatic spices like cinnamon and cayenne pepper. This recipe will fill your home with the comforting scents of the season and add a touch of Mexican flair to your holiday table.
Pan De Miel – Honey Bread
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and cayenne pepper. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, honey, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, until well combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in the chopped nuts, if using, for an added crunch and texture to your bread batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the Pan De Miel to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once the bread has cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch.
Enjoy this fragrant Pan De Miel Honey Bread with a cup of Mexican hot chocolate or as a sweet accompaniment to your holiday brunch spread. The combination of honey, warm spices, and a hint of heat from the cayenne pepper creates a unique flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests and transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico during Christmastime.
Let the spirit of the season infuse your home with the cozy aromas of freshly baked bread and the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones. Pan De Miel is not just a recipe; it’s a cultural experience that brings tradition and flavor to your holiday festivities. Give this Mexican Christmas baking recipe a try and savor the magic of the holidays with each delightful bite.
