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Pan de Muerto (Bread of the Dead)

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Pan de Muerto is a traditional Mexican sweet bread made to celebrate Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). It is soft, slightly sweet, flavored with orange zest and anise, and decorated with bone-shaped dough pieces, symbolizing the deceased.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon anise seeds (optional)
  • 1/4 cup butter (for brushing)
  • 1/4 cup sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, butter, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and anise seeds (if using).
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1–2 hours).
  4. Punch down the dough and set aside a small portion to make bone-shaped decorations. Shape the remaining dough into a round loaf and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Roll the reserved dough into thin ropes and arrange them over the loaf to resemble bones. Place a small ball of dough in the center.
  6. Cover and let rise again for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 35–40 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
  8. While still warm, brush the loaf with melted butter and sprinkle generously with sugar.

Notes

  • Traditionally enjoyed during Día de los Muertos alongside hot chocolate or atole.
  • Orange blossom water can be used instead of orange juice for a more floral flavor.
  • The anise seeds are optional but add an authentic aromatic touch.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pan de Muerto, Mexican bread, Day of the Dead bread, traditional Mexican recipes, sweet bread

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