Pan de Muerto Recipe

Pan de Muerto, or “Bread of the Dead,” is a traditional Mexican sweet bread made to honor loved ones during Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). This soft, slightly sweet bread is infused with orange zest and anise, shaped with decorative “bones” on top, and finished with a dusting of sugar. It is often enjoyed with hot chocolate or coffee, making it a comforting and symbolic treat.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 500g Bread flour
• 2 tbsp Active dry yeast
• 100g Granulated sugar
• 1 tsp Salt
• 80g Unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large Eggs
• 2 Oranges, zested
• 60ml Warm water
• 1 tsp Orange blossom water (optional)

For the Glaze & Topping:

• 1 large Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 2 tbsp Melted butter
• ¼ cup Granulated sugar

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and 1 tbsp sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, salt, butter, eggs, orange zest, and orange blossom water.
3. Add the yeast mixture and knead for 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Bread

1. Divide the dough into two equal portions.
2. Shape each portion into a round loaf.
3. Use extra dough to form thin strips resembling “bones” and place them in a cross pattern on top of each loaf.
4. Place a small dough ball in the center to represent a skull.

Step 3: Second Rise & Bake

1. Cover the shaped loaves and let rise for 1 hour.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Brush the loaves with beaten egg and bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 4: Glaze & Finish

1. Remove from the oven and brush with melted butter.
2. Sprinkle generously with granulated sugar.
3. Let cool before serving.

Customization Ideas:

• Chocolate Twist: Add ½ cup cocoa powder to the dough for a rich flavor.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans over the glaze.
• Spiced Variation: Mix in ½ tsp cinnamon for extra warmth.

This Pan de Muerto is a beautiful, symbolic bread that brings tradition and flavor together. Would you like a nostalgic or fusion variation to make it even more unique? 😊

For more inspiration, check out this recipe!