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pan cubano recipe
Delilah Cooks

Pan cubano recipe

Pan Cubano Recipe is a classic Cuban bread known for its light texture, crispy crust, and soft interior. This Pan Cubano Recipe is perfect for making Cuban sandwiches, serving with soups, or enjoying with butter.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Bread
Cuisine: Cuban
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups bread flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water
  • 2 tablespoons lard or vegetable shortening
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Method
 

Cooking Instructions for Pan Cubano
    Activate the Yeast
    1. Pour warm water into a bowl. Add sugar and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about five minutes until foamy and active.
    Mix the Dough
    1. Add bread flour, salt, and lard to the yeast mixture. Stir everything together until a rough dough starts to form.
    Knead the Dough
    1. Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for about eight minutes until smooth, elastic, and soft to the touch.
    First Rise
    1. Place the dough into a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a towel and let it rise until doubled in size.
    Shape the Loaf
    1. Punch down the dough gently. Shape it into a long loaf. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
    Second Rise
    1. Cover the loaf loosely with a towel. Let it rise again for about thirty minutes until puffy and light.
    Prepare for Baking
    1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the loaf with water for a crisp crust.
    Score the Bread
    1. Use a sharp knife to make a shallow cut along the top of the loaf. This helps control expansion.
    Bake Until Golden
    1. Bake the bread for about twenty-five minutes. The crust should become golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
    Cool Before Slicing
    1. Transfer the loaf to a cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing for the best texture.

    Notes

    • Use bread flour for better structure.
    • Make sure water is warm, not hot.
    • Knead until the dough becomes smooth.
    • Allow enough rising time.
    • Do not add too much flour.
    • Cool completely before slicing.
    • Use fresh yeast for best results.
    • Store bread properly to maintain freshness.