Pan de Muerto
Learn how to Pan De Muerte, a Mexican bread specifically used as an offering at Dia De Muertos altars.
program overview
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.
instructor Overview
Gerardo Diaz
Gerardo Diaz is a passionate individual with a love for the great outdoors, culinary arts, and family connections. Born and raised in Mazatlan Sinaloa Gerardo’s affinity for nature was fostered from a young age. His earliest memories are filled with the sights and sounds of the ocean waves sparking a lifelong passion for exploration and adventure.
Beyond his love for fishing, Gerardo is also a skilled culinary enthusiast. He delights in the art of cooking, using fresh ingredients and innovative techniques to create mouthwatering dishes that tantalize the taste buds. From sizzling seafood caught on his own fishing excursions to hearty meals prepared with love for his family, Gerardo’s kitchen is always brimming with creativity and flavor.
Above all else, Gerardo treasures time spent with his family. Whether they’re gathered around the dinner table sharing stories and laughter or embarking on outdoor escapades together, the bond they share is unbreakable. He believes that family is the cornerstone of happiness and finds true joy in nurturing those relationships through shared experiences and cherished moments.
Membership Has Its Benefits
All Silver Memberships and above receive 10% off the registration cost for any class purchase over $40.
Materials fees are not discounted.
Membership helps support our programs, events, and financial aid programs.
Become a member today and find community, connection, and creativity.
Class FAQ
We ask that you notify us at least 10 days in advance of a class if you need to cancel your registration. You may cancel by phone or email and we will gladly offer you a refund or credit toward a future class. If you cancel with less than 10 days’ notice, we will not be able to provide refunds, due to our contractual obligations and material purchases for each class.
Sometimes, the Sonoma Community Center has to cancel a class due to low enrollment or unforeseen circumstances, such as a natural disaster or health emergency. If this happens and we do not offer a reschedule date, you will be refunded 100% of your registration fee (minus the payment processing and services fee), or credit towards a future class. If we are able to offer a reschedule date but you are unable to make the new date, we will gladly offer credit towards a future class.
All credits must be used within 1 year.
You can view our full class policies and guidelines here.
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 [email protected] so that he can forward them to the relevant Program Director and Instructor.
Late additions to any program, class, or workshop that has already begun will be allowed on a per-case basis depending upon the Program Director & instructors approval. Late additions will have to pay the full registration cost of the class, along with any materials fees, and will not be prorated for the time missed. You may reach out to the program directors directly, or the Program Associate Sean Baskin at [email protected] to request a late addition.
We are always looking for new instructors. You can fill out the form directly here.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026 from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm
Experience Level
BeginningAll ages welcome Children under 10 may attend for free Children must be accompanied by an adult
Registration Cost:
Free
