Soft and Fluffy Pan de Mallorca

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and Fluffy Pan de Mallorca is a traditional Puerto Rican sweet bread known for its light, airy texture and slightly sweet flavor. With its buttery, pillowy consistency, this bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a special treat. Often enjoyed with a dusting of powdered sugar or paired with a cup of coffee, Pan de Mallorca brings comfort and a touch of sweetness to any moment of the day.

Ingredients

this Recipe

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened (for brushing)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and place them on a greased baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
6. Cover the dough balls with a cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Brush the tops of the dough with softened butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top.
8. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 8 rolls.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1.5-2 hours
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 2.5-3 hours

Variations

• Add a touch of cinnamon to the dough for a spiced flavor.
• You can brush the rolls with a cinnamon sugar mixture instead of plain butter for extra sweetness.
• For a richer flavor, replace some of the milk with heavy cream.

Storage/Reheating

Store Pan de Mallorca in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
To reheat, warm the bread in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes for a soft, fresh texture.

FAQs

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, bread flour can be used for a slightly chewier texture, but all-purpose flour is perfect for this recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

Is Pan de Mallorca sweet?
Yes, it has a mildly sweet flavor, perfect for breakfast or as a light dessert.

Can I freeze Pan de Mallorca?
Yes, you can freeze the baked rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

Soft and Fluffy Pan de Mallorca is a delicious, sweet bread that’s perfect for any occasion. With its light texture and subtly sweet flavor, it’s a treat that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a comforting afternoon snack, this Puerto Rican classic will quickly become a favorite in your home.

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