Description
Conchas are a traditional Mexican sweet bread known for their soft, fluffy texture and signature crunchy, sugary topping, often shaped like seashells.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- For the topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring or cocoa powder (optional, for color)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat together sugar, butter, and salt until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
- Stir in the yeast mixture and gradually add flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Meanwhile, prepare the topping by mixing butter, powdered sugar, flour, and vanilla until a thick paste forms. Divide and color as desired.
- Once dough has risen, divide into 12 equal pieces and shape into balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Flatten a tablespoon of topping mixture and gently press onto each dough ball, covering the top. Score with a knife in a shell or grid pattern.
- Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake conchas for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Let cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
- Use food coloring or cocoa in the topping to create traditional pink, white, or brown conchas.
- Conchas are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
- Reheat slightly in the microwave for a just-baked taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 concha
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg