Disney Recipe: Learn How to Make Your Own Mickey-Shaped Conchas at HOME!

We may be wrapping up all the Christmas celebrations in Disney World, but there’s still one more way to celebrate the holiday!

Holiday Decorations at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Día de Reyes is a holiday that is celebrated by most in Mexico and Latin America and is observed on January 6th to honor the day that the three wise men brought gifts to baby Jesus. This is traditionally the date that gifts are exchanged in these cultures, but it’s also known for one of its specialty treats — Conchas! And, now you can get in on the celebrations with a brand new Disney-inspired recipe from D23!

If you’re not familiar, Conchas are traditional Mexican sweet bread rolls that get their name from their rounded shape and striped, seashell-patterned look. These sweet bread rolls with crunchy topping have been known to make their way to Disneyland from time to time (most recently they were featured in the Pan Dulce Ice Cream Sandwich) and we’ve even seen Minnie Ears inspired by them in the past! But, now you can make them at home thanks to D23!

©D23

You will need some special equipment and ingredients to get this going in your kitchen, but follow the directions below and you’ll be enjoying your very own Mickey-Inspired Conchas in no time!

Ingredients

Bread

1/4 cup whole milk, room temperature
1 packet active dry yeast (see instructions on yeast packaging to activate)
1/3 cup granulated sugar, divided
3-1/2 to 3-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 large eggs, beaten

Topping

3/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp cocoa powder if using

Special equipment

Stand mixer with bread hook
Concha cutter

Instructions

Activate the yeast by following the instructions on the packaging. Be sure the yeast is foamy or bubbly; if it’s not, toss out and try again.
In the mixing bowl of a stand mixer, add the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix to combine.
Mix in the melted butter and beaten eggs until combined; then, attach the dough hook and add the activated yeast mixture. Mix on medium-low for about 5 to 8 minutes until the dough is elastic and smooth. FYI: The dough should be slightly tacky, but not sticky. If sticky, add a small amount of flour until tacky.
Grease a large bowl with butter or vegetable oil; place the dough in a bowl and cover loosely with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Set the bowl in a warm area and allow it to rise, doubling in size. Note: This may take up to 2 hours.
When the dough has risen, divide it into 12 to 14 pieces. Line baking sheets with parchment paper, then shape the dough into balls. TIP: To make the Mickey head shape, use one ball for the head and divide another ball to make the ears.
Set the balls aside on parchment-lined baking sheets while the topping is made.
Mix together the flour, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract in a bowl with a spatula. Mix until a smooth paste is formed.
Separate out the desired amount to add food coloring or cocoa powder, if desired.
Divide the topping to equal the amounts of dough balls. Remember, the ears count as one ball!
Roll out balls of topping and then flatten by hand to be about the same size as a dough ball. Then press down on the dough ball to flatten it a bit; place the topping onto the flattened dough and gently spread the topping to cover the top and sides.
Use the Concha cutter or a sharp knife to gently cut the pattern into the topping without cutting the dough underneath.
Place the dough balls far enough apart on the parchment-lined baking sheets for the dough to rise. Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean towel and allow to rise for another hour. The topping will separate and maybe crack—that’s normal.
When the dough has risen, preheat the oven to 350°, and bake on the center rack for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the bread is lightly golden.
Allow them to cool before moving. The topping is delicate and brittle.

So, there you have it — how to make your own Mickey-Inspired Conchas this holiday season! We’ve got plenty more Disney recipes to help you bring a bit of magic into your kitchen, so be sure to see if your favorites are featured here!