Description
Mexican Conchas are traditional sweet breads characterized by their soft, fluffy dough and a colorful, sugary topping that resembles seashell patterns. These delightful pan dulce pastries are a beloved breakfast and dessert treat in Mexican cuisine, perfect for enjoying with coffee or hot chocolate.
Ingredients
Scale
For the dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- â…“ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup whole milk, warm
- ½ cup warm water
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the topping:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- â…” cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring or cocoa powder (optional for color variations)
Instructions
- Make the dough: In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast with a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add in the yeast mixture, warm milk, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes, by hand or using a dough hook, until smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Make the topping: In a bowl, mix softened butter, powdered sugar, flour, and vanilla until a thick paste forms. Divide if you want multiple colors and mix in food coloring or cocoa powder.
- Shape and assemble: After the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a smooth ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten slightly. Divide the topping into 12 pieces, flatten each into a disk, and gently press one over the top of each dough ball. Use a sharp knife to score shell-like designs (traditional seashell patterns) into the topping.
- Second rise: Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake conchas for 18–20 minutes, or until lightly golden and cooked through.
- Cool and serve: Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
- Conchas are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Warm slightly before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- You can customize the topping’s color using food coloring or add cocoa powder for a chocolate variation.
