pan de muerto bread recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best pan de muerto bread recipe

This pan de muerto bread recipe is one I make every year for Día de Muertos. It is a soft, slightly sweet bread that my whole family looks forward to. The kids love helping me shape the little bone decorations on top. I like that it uses simple ingredients like flour, butter, and orange zest. It is a perfect recipe for a special occasion but also works for a weekend baking project. The bread is not too heavy and has a nice citrus flavor from the orange. It is a fun way to celebrate a tradition and enjoy a homemade treat together.

Pan de Muerto Bread

4.8 from 572 votes

This traditional Mexican sweet bread is soft and fluffy with a hint of orange. It is shaped with bone-like decorations and topped with sugar.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time3 hours (includes rising time)
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon orange zest
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
1/2 cup warm milk
1/4 cup orange juice

For the Glaze and Topping

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon orange zest

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and orange zest. Add softened butter, eggs, yeast mixture, and orange juice. Mix until a dough forms.
3Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
4Punch down the dough. Reserve about 1/4 of the dough for decorations. Divide the remaining dough into 2 equal pieces. Shape each into a round loaf and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5Use the reserved dough to form bone shapes. Roll small pieces into ropes about 4 inches long. Place two ropes on top of each loaf in a cross pattern. Add a small ball of dough in the center.
6Cover the loaves and let rise for another 30-45 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F.
7Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly on a wire rack.
8Brush the warm bread with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar mixed with orange zest. Serve warm or at room temperature.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Pastry brush

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 180mg🌾Total Carbs: 48g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 16g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

Tips: For a more pronounced orange flavor, add an extra teaspoon of zest. You can also substitute the milk with almond milk for a dairy-free version.

Watch Video Of How Pan de Muerto Bread Works

This pan de muerto bread recipe is always a good idea for family gatherings because it brings everyone together to share a meaningful treat. It works well for any occasion where you want a homemade bread that is both delicious and special. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as my family does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pan de Muerto Bread

1. Can I make pan de muerto ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the bread a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Brush with butter and sugar just before serving.

2. What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

You can knead the dough by hand. It will take about 10 minutes of kneading on a floured surface until the dough is smooth and elastic.

3. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, but you need to activate it first. Dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a little sugar and let it sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover bread in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Thaw and reheat gently before serving.

5. Can I add fillings to the bread?

This recipe is traditionally plain, but you can add a filling like chocolate chips or cinnamon sugar if you like. Just fold them into the dough before shaping.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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