Pan de Muerto
Bread of the Dead
A traditional sweet, soft, and aromatic Mexican bread, typically enjoyed during the Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) celebrations from November 1st to 2nd. This enriched dough is flavored with orange zest and orange blossom water, and shaped with decorative 'bones'.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g All-purpose flour(Plus extra for dusting)
- 150 g Granulated sugar(Divided: 100g for dough, 50g for topping)
- 120 g Unsalted butter(Softened, plus extra for brushing)
- 4 Large eggs(Room temperature)
- 2 tsp Active dry yeast
- 2 medium oranges Orange zest(Finely grated)
- 1 tbsp Orange blossom water(Adjust to taste if desired)
- 1 tsp Anise seeds(Optional, for a classic flavor)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 60 ml Milk(Lukewarm)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk with 1 teaspoon of the sugar and the active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. This indicates the yeast is active.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour, the remaining 100g of sugar, salt, orange zest, and anise seeds (if using).
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Add wet ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the activated yeast mixture, softened butter, eggs, and orange blossom water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 10-15 minutes, or knead in a stand mixer on medium speed for 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky. It should pass the windowpane test (a small piece can be stretched thin enough to see light through without tearing).
⏱️ 15 minutes - 5
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
⏱️ 2 hours - 6
Shape the bread: Gently punch down the risen dough. Divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round ball for the base of the bread. For the decorative 'bones', take small pieces of dough and roll them into thin ropes, then shape them into crosses or bone-like figures. Arrange these on top of the round bases.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 7
Second rise: Place the shaped breads on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Let them rise again in a warm place for 45-60 minutes, or until puffy.
⏱️ 1 hour - 8
Bake the bread: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the Pan de Muerto for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches around 90-95°C (195-200°F).
⏱️ 25-30 minutes - 9
Finish and serve: While the bread is still warm, brush the tops generously with melted butter. Then, dust with the remaining 50g of sugar. Let cool slightly before serving.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The orange flavor should be noticeable and fragrant. Ensure you use fresh orange zest.
- ✓The decorative 'bones' symbolize the deceased. They are traditionally arranged in a circle on top of the bread.
- ✓Pan de Muerto is best enjoyed fresh, often served with a cup of hot chocolate or atole.
- ✓For a richer dough, you can add a tablespoon of honey or a touch more orange blossom water.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds to the dough or topping for added texture.
- Shape the dough into different forms, such as skulls or simple round loaves.
- For a richer flavor, incorporate a small amount of ground cinnamon into the dough.