Teresa's Recipes
Pan Dulce
Pan Dulce, often referred to as Mexican sweet bread, is a delightful pastry that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many around the world. With its soft and slightly sweet dough, each bite is a pillowy indulgence. Traditionally enjoyed with a steaming cup of hot chocolate or café de olla, this vibrant bread is adorned with colorful toppings, making it a feast for the eyes and the palate. With roots tracing back to the Spanish colonial period, Pan Dulce has evolved into a cherished part of Mexican culture, often enjoyed during celebrations and holidays.
Ingredients
- 4 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons Active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup Warm water
- 1/2 cup, divided Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 cup, softened Unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup, warm Milk
- 2, large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1 cup (for glaze) Confectioners' sugar
- 2 tablespoons Water (for glaze)
- as desired, for decoration Colorful sprinkles
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 12
- Dish Type: Dessert/Bread
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 5g
- Carbs: 30g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Sugar: 10g
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
- Add the softened butter, eggs, warm milk, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir until a soft dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for approximately 5 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough is rising.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round or oval form.
- Arrange the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover them with a clean kitchen towel, and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Bake the pan dulce in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
- While the bread is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the confectioners' sugar and water in a small bowl until smooth and pourable.
- Remove the pan dulce from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the top and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Serve the pan dulce warm or at room temperature, and enjoy this delightful treat with your favorite beverage.
Tips
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a touch of almond extract to the dough.
- You can experiment with different toppings such as cinnamon sugar or chocolate drizzle for added variety.
- These sweet breads can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or frozen for longer preservation.