Soft, fluffy, and beautifully golden with a dusting of powdered sugar, Pan de Mallorca is the kind of bread that makes you slow down and savor every bite. These sweet Puerto Rican rolls are pillowy, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat with a cup of coffee.
Think of them as the lovechild of brioche and a cinnamon roll (without the cinnamon). Whether you enjoy them plain, filled with ham and cheese, or lightly toasted with butter, these soft spirals are simply irresistible.
Why You’ll Love Pan de Mallorca
Soft & Buttery: Light, airy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Versatile: Enjoy them sweet or savory—pair them with jam, butter, or even deli meats.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.
Make-Ahead Friendly: They stay soft for days and reheat beautifully.
Ingredients
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
All-Purpose Flour: The base of the dough, giving it structure while keeping it light.
Yeast: Active dry yeast helps the dough rise into soft, fluffy perfection.
Milk: Adds richness and moisture for a tender texture.
Eggs: Essential for a soft, enriched dough.
Butter: Melted butter gives these rolls their signature richness.
Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
Salt: Balances the flavors.
Powdered Sugar: The classic finishing touch that makes these rolls extra special.
Instructions
Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk and mix it with yeast and a bit of sugar. Let it sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes.
Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter, then mix until a sticky dough forms.
Knead & Rise: Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
Shape the Rolls: Divide the dough into pieces, roll each into a long rope, and spiral them into coils. Place them on a baking sheet.
Second Rise: Let the shaped rolls rise again until puffy, about 30-45 minutes.
Bake to Perfection: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
Dust & Serve: Once cooled slightly, dust generously with powdered sugar and enjoy!
How to Serve Pan de Mallorca
Classic Style: Warm and fresh out of the oven with a cup of coffee.
With Butter & Jam: Spread with butter, guava jam, or honey for a simple yet delicious treat.
Savory Twist: Fill with ham and cheese for a sweet-and-savory sandwich.
Toasted: Lightly toast and spread with more butter for a rich, caramelized bite.
Additional Tips
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the dough rise evenly and creates a soft texture.
Don’t Skip the Second Rise: It gives the rolls their signature fluffy texture.
For Extra Softness: Brush the warm rolls with melted butter before dusting with powdered sugar.
Store Properly: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Q2: Can I freeze Pan de Mallorca?
A2: Absolutely! Freeze baked rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Q3: How do I get a perfect spiral shape?
A3: Roll each dough rope evenly and tuck the end under the roll to keep it from unraveling.
Q4: Can I make these dairy-free?
A4: Yes! Use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter alternatives.
Q5: Why is my dough too sticky?
A5: This is a soft dough, but if it’s too sticky to work with, add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Q6: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A6: Yes! You can mix it directly into the flour without proofing it first.
Q7: What can I use instead of powdered sugar on top?
A7: A light honey glaze or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar works beautifully.
Q8: Do I need a stand mixer to make these?
A8: Nope! You can knead by hand, but a mixer makes it easier.
Q9: Can I add fillings to the dough?
A9: Yes! Try rolling in a bit of cinnamon sugar or spreading a thin layer of Nutella before rolling into spirals.
Q10: How do I keep them soft for longer?
A10: Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread—it helps maintain moisture.
Final Thoughts
Pan de Mallorca is the kind of bread that brings pure joy with every bite—soft, buttery, and just the right touch of sweetness. Whether you enjoy them plain, filled, or toasted, they’re a treat you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Pan de Mallorca
- Prep Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Bread, Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Puerto Rican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pan de Mallorca is a soft, fluffy Puerto Rican sweet bread known for its signature spiral shape and delicate sweetness. Made with egg yolks, butter, and a touch of sugar, this yeasted bread is perfect for breakfast or as a side for any meal. Enjoy it with coffee or turn it into a delicious sandwich!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 8 egg yolks
- 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 cup melted butter (+ 2 tbsp for brushing)
- 5 cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast and warm water. Let proof for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Add milk, egg yolks, sugar, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Whisk until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix flour and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, one cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon until a dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for a few minutes. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 2 hours.
- Shape Rolls: Divide the dough into 12 equal balls. Roll each into a 12-inch strip and coil into a spiral.
- Second Rise: Place shaped rolls on a parchment-lined pan, brush with melted butter, and cover. Let rise for 45 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20–30 minutes until golden brown.
- Finish & Serve: Dust with powdered sugar and enjoy warm.
Notes
- For extra softness, brush with additional melted butter after baking.
- Pairs well with coffee or can be used as a base for sweet or savory sandwiches.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g5
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg