Follow our conchas recipe to learn how to make colorful pan dulce similar to what you see on display in a Mexican bakery.
Instructions
1
Make the dough
2
In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, sugar, salt and cinnamon until well combined. In a small saucepan, heat milk and butter to 120°-130°. Add the dough hook attachment to the mixer, then add the butter into the flour mixture and beat on medium speed until well combined, about two minutes. Add the eggs. Beat the mixture for two minutes on high speed. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a stiff dough (dough will be sticky).
3
Knead and let the dough rise
4
Turn dough onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, six to eight minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top of the dough. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles, about one hour.
5
Make the topping
6
Meanwhile, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the butter, all-purpose flour, sugar and vanilla until well-combined. Divide the topping in half. Mix the ground chocolate into one half and set aside.
7
Divide the dough
8
Punch down the dough. Divide the dough into 12 portions and form each into a 3-inch oval. Place them 2 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with milk; brush over the dough.
9
Add the topping
10
Divide the chocolate streusel into six portions and roll each into a 3-inch circle. Place over half the rolls. Repeat with the plain streusel and the remaining rolls. Using a sharp knife, like a small paring knife, gently cut through the streusel on top of the rolls, scoring a seashell design in the topping. Cover the conchas with clean kitchen towels and let them rise in a warm place until almost doubled, about 30 minutes.
11
During the last 15 minutes of rising time, preheat the oven to 375°. Brush the rolls with any remaining egg wash. Bake the conchas until the tops are lightly browned, 15-20 minutes. Remove the rolls to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature.
