Pan de Muerto (Bread of the Dead)

🧂 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.

🔄 Variations

• 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.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving