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–+ servings

Bread of the Dead

A traditional Mexican sweet bread, often made to honor deceased loved ones during the Day of the Dead celebrations.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: bread, Dessert
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 cup milk warm
  • 3 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1 teaspoon anise seeds optional
Topping Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Method
 

Prepare the Dough
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. Add the melted butter, sugar, eggs, orange zest, and anise seeds to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
  3. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Shape and Bake
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal parts.
  3. Shape one part into a round loaf and the other into smaller pieces to form a cross on top.
  4. Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
  6. Mix the topping ingredients and sprinkle over the dough.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
  8. Let cool before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 6gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gFiber: 1gSugar: 15g

Notes

This bread is often decorated with bone-shaped pieces to symbolize the deceased. It can be served with hot chocolate or coffee.

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