VANILLA-INFUSED PAN DE MUERTOS: A SWEET TRIBUTE

How Can You Make This Traditional Mexican Bread with a Unique Vanilla Twist?

Pan de Muertos, or "Bread of the Dead," is a traditional Mexican bread made to honor loved ones during the Day of the Dead celebrations. This vanilla-infused version adds a delightful aromatic twist, making it a treat for both the living and the spirits. Here’s how to make this delectable bread at home.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed (110°F/43°C)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Vanilla Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• Extra granulated sugar for dusting
• Orange slices or marigold petals (optional, for decoration)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the melted butter, vanilla extract, and orange zest.
4. Combine Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture and the egg mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
6. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Shape the Bread

1. Shape the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal parts.
2. Create the Bread: Take one part and shape it into a round loaf (this will be the main body of the Pan de Muertos). With the other half, roll out small pieces to form “bones” to place on top of the loaf (you can make shapes like sticks or small ropes).
3. Assemble: Place the shaped loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange the “bones” over the top in a cross or skull shape.
4. Second Rise: Cover the shaped loaf with a kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes until puffed.

Step 3: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. The internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C).
3. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.

Step 4: Glaze and Serve

1. Make the Vanilla Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired consistency.
2. Glaze the Bread: Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the vanilla glaze over the top and sprinkle with extra granulated sugar for a sweet touch.
3. Garnish: Decorate with orange slices or marigold petals if desired.

Enjoy!

Slice and serve your vanilla-infused Pan de Muertos at your Day of the Dead celebrations or any festive occasion. This delicious bread not only honors the memories of loved ones but also fills your home with the warm, inviting aroma of vanilla and citrus.

Share your baking experience with us in the comments! Have you tried making Pan de Muertos with a twist? Let us know your thoughts!

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