Barras de Mantequilla (Mexican Butter Bars)

Barras de Mantequilla, or Butter Bars, are a quintessential part of Mexican "Pan Dulce," a sweet bread often found in local bakeries. This recipe highlights the use of margarine to achieve the authentic texture and flavor traditionally enjoyed in Mexico. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat, these bars are complemented beautifully by a homemade buttercream.

Ingredients

For the Bread:
🍞 3.5 cups all-purpose flour
🍚 1/2 cup sugar
🧂 1/4 tsp salt
🧈 6 tbsp margarine at room temperature
💧 1/2 cup warm water
🧫 2 tbsp active dry yeast
🥚 2 eggs at room temperature

For the Buttercream:
🧈 1 stick margarine at room temperature
🍚 2.5 cups powdered sugar
🍦 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Egg Wash:
🥚 1 egg
🥛 1 tbsp evaporated milk, whole milk, or water

Instructions

1- Prepare the Yeast:

• Mix the yeast with warm water until dissolved, ensuring no lumps. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest to double in size.

2- Create the Dough:

• In a mixer, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add margarine and mix until it integrates into the dry ingredients.
• Add the yeast mixture and eggs to the mixer, blending until a sticky dough forms.
• Transfer the dough onto a work surface and knead by hand until it’s tacky but not sticking to your fingers (10-15 minutes).

3- First Rise:

• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise until doubled in size.

4- Shape and Second Rise:

• Form the dough into a long loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise again until it doubles.

5- Prepare Egg Wash & Bake:

• Mix the egg with milk (or water) and brush over the loaf.
• Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

6- Cool and Slice:

• Allow the loaf to cool before slicing.

7- Make Buttercream:

• Using a mixer, blend margarine, powdered sugar, and vanilla until fluffy and pale.
• Spread the buttercream over each slice of cooled bread.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rising times)
Servings: Approximately 12 slices
Equipment Needed: Mixer, mixing bowls, baking sheet, parchment paper

Cooking Tips:

• Ensure the margarine is at room temperature for both the bread and buttercream for the best texture.

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Barras de Mantequilla (Mexican Butter Bars)