Recipe: Pan de muerto

Day of the death bread 

Pan de Muerto is more than just a traditional pastry—it is a symbol of love, remembrance, and family unity. Every year, during Mexico’s Day of the Dead celebrations, this sweet bread becomes the centerpiece of altars and gatherings, honoring those who are no longer with us. Its round shape represents the cycle of life and death, while the strips of dough symbolize bones and tears, reminding us of the value of our roots and traditions.

Ingredients

• Wheat Flour 2.2lb (1kg)

• Butter 14 oz (400g)

• Sugar 11 oz (300g)

• Yeast 1 oz (30g)

• Salt 0.35 oz (10g)

• Eggs 26 oz (750g)

• Butter Orange Arte Pan 6mL

• Orange Blossom Essence 13mL or Pan de Muerto Arte Pan 6 mL

Procedure

• Blend all of the ingredients until they form a dough with some degree of elasticity.

• Let it rise at a temperature of 81°F (27°C) until it doubles it's original volume.

• Break it and let it rise again at room temperature for 1 hour.

• Take the dough and create your traditional Day of the Death bread shapes.

• Let them rise until they double their volume.

• Bake during 25 minutes at 356°F (180°C).

Enjoying freshly baked Pan de Muerto is a delicious way to keep tradition alive. Whether paired with hot chocolate or coffee, this bread invites us to share special moments with loved ones while honoring those we remember with flavor, aroma, and heart.