**Conchas: A Sweet and Savory Mexican Pastry**
Conchas are a traditional Mexican pastry that is popular for its sweet and savory flavor. They are made with a slightly sweet bread dough that is flavored with vanilla and orange zest, and then topped with a streusel topping that is made with flour, butter, and sugar. The streusel topping is usually flavored with cinnamon, but it can also be made with other spices, such as nutmeg or anise. Conchas are typically round in shape and have a distinctive shell-like pattern on the top. They are often served for breakfast or as a snack, and they can be enjoyed on their own or with a cup of coffee or tea.
This article provides recipes for two different types of conchas: traditional conchas and chocolate conchas. Traditional conchas are made with a plain bread dough, while chocolate conchas are made with a chocolate-flavored bread dough. Both recipes are easy to follow and can be made with ingredients that are readily available. The article also includes a recipe for a homemade streusel topping, which can be used to top either type of concha.
Conchas are a delicious and versatile pastry that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack, and they can also be served as a dessert. If you are looking for a new and exciting pastry to try, conchas are a great option.
CONCHAS (MEXICAN SWEET BREAD)
I got this recipe from my friends mom who owns a Mexican Bakery. When they made these one day for my family they loved them - even my brother who is sooo picky. Now they ask for them all the time. Although they are a little time consuming it is well worth it at the end!
Provided by MelissaAmador
Categories 100+ Breakfast and Brunch Recipes Breakfast Bread Recipes
Time 2h20m
Yield 12
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- In a large bowl, stir together the yeast and warm water. Mix in the milk, 3/8 cup sugar, 1/3 cup melted butter, salt, egg and half of the flour. Gradually mix in the remaining flour, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Turn the dough out onto a floured counter to knead as soon as it pulls together enough.
- Knead for 6 to 8 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place in a large greased bowl, and turn the dough to coat. Cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Make the topping while the dough rises. In a medium bowl, beat 2/3 cup sugar and 1/2 cup butter until light and fluffy. Stir in the flour until the mixture is the consistency of thick paste. Divide into two parts, and place one part in a separate bowl. Mix cinnamon into one half, and vanilla into the other half.
- When the dough is done rising, cut into 12 even-sized pieces. Shape into balls, and place on a greased cookie sheet, spacing about 3 inches apart. Divide each bowl of topping into 6 balls, and pat flat. Place circles of topping on top of the dough balls patting down lightly. Use a knife to cut grooves in the topping like a clam shell. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Bake for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 394.5 calories, Carbohydrate 58.9 g, Cholesterol 52.4 mg, Fat 14.5 g, Fiber 1.8 g, Protein 7.1 g, SaturatedFat 8.8 g, Sodium 303.1 mg, Sugar 18.6 g
CONCHAS RECIPE
Among all the different kinds of traditional Mexican Pan Dulce ("sweet bread"), Conchas are without a doubt the most popular and recognizable. No other pan dulce is more representative of Mexico and its love of bread.
Provided by Mely Martínez
Categories Breads
Time 2h
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Have each ingredient ready and measured (by weight) before starting, and thoroughly read the notes above. Mix the all-purpose flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer at medium speed, just to mix it well.
- Add the butter and mix well (using the stand mixer with the hook attachment), then mix in the eggs and vanilla extract and slowly pour the milk in little by little until the dough looks cohesive (you may need less or more milk, as some flours soak up more liquid than others). Keep beating the mixture for about 7 minutes at medium speed. Add a little more flour around the inside of the bowl (2-3 tablespoons), just enough for the dough to separate from the container. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
- YOUR DOUGH SHOULD FEEL VERY SOFT AND ELASTIC.
- Place the dough on your floured working table and knead it just enough to shape it into a ball.
- Place this ball in a large greased bowl to rest. Cover it with plastic wrap (or wax paper) and a kitchen napkin. Let the dough rest in a warm place for about 2 hours until it doubles in size. I usually turn the light on in my oven and place the bowl inside, close to the light. Be aware that if your kitchen is cold, the dough will take longer to rise. Be patient and do not try to proceed to the next step until the mixture has doubled in size.
Nutrition Facts : ServingSize 1 g, Calories 339 kcal, Carbohydrate 47 g, Protein 5 g, Fat 14 g, SaturatedFat 5 g, Cholesterol 37 mg, Sodium 131 mg, Fiber 1 g, Sugar 16 g
Tips:
- Mise en Place: Before you start baking, make sure you have all the ingredients and tools you need. This will help you stay organized and avoid any mishaps.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the taste of your conchas. Use fresh eggs, butter, and milk, and choose high-quality flour and sugar.
- Proof the Dough Properly: Proofing the dough is essential for allowing the yeast to work its magic and create a light and fluffy texture. Make sure you proof the dough in a warm place for the recommended amount of time.
- Shape the Conchas Carefully: When shaping the conchas, be gentle and take your time. This will help you avoid deflating the dough and ensure that your conchas have a nice, even shape.
- Bake the Conchas Until Golden Brown: Keep an eye on the conchas while they're baking and remove them from the oven as soon as they're golden brown. Overbaking will dry out the conchas and make them less tender.
Conclusion:
These authentic Mexican conchas are a delicious and beautiful treat that are perfect for any occasion. With their soft and fluffy texture, sweet and slightly tangy flavor, and colorful topping, they're sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. So next time you're in the mood for something special, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
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