Learn how to Pan De Muerte, a Mexican bread specifically used as an offering at Dia De Muertos altars.

Please note that these classes are for child and guardian/family member. It doesn’t matter if your child is 5 or 25, please come together!

The bread is usually round and slightly domed, symbolizing the cycle of life and death. It’s decorated with dough shaped into bone-like patterns or crossbones placed on top, representing the deceased. Sometimes, a small ball of dough is placed at the top, symbolizing a skull or the circle of life. The “bones” often form a cross that could also represent the cardinal directions, a connection to pre-Hispanic traditions.

The bread has a soft, light, and airy texture, similar to a brioche, and is often flavored with orange blossom water, anise, or vanilla. It is usually dusted with sugar after baking, giving it a sweet taste that complements the slightly citrusy flavor. Some varieties include fillings or toppings like chocolate or sugar icing, depending on the region in Mexico.

This bread is often placed on altars (ofrendas) as an offering to deceased loved ones, accompanied by candles, flowers (especially marigolds), and photos of the departed. It is a symbol of both remembrance and the sweetness of life.

The Sonoma Community Center is committed to creating an accessible learning environment. If you require any special considerations(medical, physical, learning) please share them with Sean Baskin, Program Associate, by emailing him at sean@sonomacommunitycenter.org so that he can forward them to the relevant Program Director and Instructor.