Pan De Muerto

Yields 2 loaves

Ingredients:

1 package granulated yeast

4 1/2 cups flour

6 eggs

6 egg yolks

3/4 cup sugar

7.5 oz. butter

1/4 cup orange blossom water

2 teaspoons cinnamon

Additional melted butter to brush after baking and granulated sugar to roll bread after the butter is brushed.

Directions:

Dissolve yeast in 1/2 cup warm water. Mix in 1/2 cup flour. Leave mixture in a warm place until it doubles in size.

Sift together salt, sugar, cinnamon and flour.

Add the remaining ingredients, but only half the butter.

Add the yeast dough and mix until it forms thick dough but not hard.

Tip:

Make sure dough doesn’t stick to the table before placing it in a large greased bowl. Cover it.

Let dough rise until it doubles in size. Pound it again, and add the rest of the butter.

Divide the dough into three equal parts. Use two for the loaves and one to decorate the loaves.

Let loaves double in size.

Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until nicely browned.

Brush with melted butter and Sprinkle with sugar while warm.

Day of the Dead bread is one important tradition that joins our families in love and appreciation for the ones gone. I love making or simply buying a Day of the Dead bread to share with our family, children learn our Hispanic culture by practicing our traditions.

Enjoy the Culture!

Chef Martin Lopez

www.ChefMartin.net