Day of the Dead: Sugar Skull Recipe

November 2nd is the Mexican holiday known as "Day of the Dead" or "Dia de los Muertos". Is is a holiday that remembers and honors loved ones who have died. One of the most recognized symbols from the holiday are skulls and one of the most recognized desserts are the amazing sugar skulls that are created. Today I am sharing a recipe with you guys so that you can make your own at home!


Sugar Skulls:

Ingredients:

1 pound powdered sugar
4 egg whites
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
Pinch of salt
Cornstarch (enough to dust rolled balls with)

1. In a medium bowl, beat four egg whites, slowly adding cream of tartar and pinch of salt until peaks form.
2. Add powdered sugar and work with hands to make a semifirm paste. If mixture is too dry, add small amount of water. If too moist, add more powdered sugar.
3. Roll into balls and dust with cornstarch.
4. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate until cool.
5. Form skulls and facial features by hand. Or use a mold, found at a craft store.
6. Allow to air dry overnight, before applying icing or decorations.
7. For colored skulls, add food coloring to the water BEFORE adding to dry mixture.
Makes 4 small sugar skulls.
Tips: For making fluffy egg whites, use older eggs; and beat eggs that have been brought to room temperature.

Ingredients for icing:

3 egg whites
1 pound powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar

1. Using electric mixer, add cream of tartar to egg whites and mix until icing peaks.
2. Fold in powdered sugar.
3. Keep in a tightly covered container until used.
Optional: Add small drops of food coloring.

Decorating:

Handle skulls carefully while decorating. For piped icing, snip corner off of quart-sized food storage bag. Fill half full of icing and softly squeeze to make designs.
Other options: Use canned icing. If skulls to be used for decorations only, use finger paint instead of icing. Use coconut dyed with food coloring for hair, eyebrows and whiskers.

Tips:

* Avoid making sugar skulls on rainy or humid days.
* If making a skull without a mold, have a picture handy for reference while shaping it.
* If a sink isn't available, fill containers with water and have paper towels to wash fingers.
* Always make a few extra skulls in case of mistakes or accidents.

Source: pbskidsgo.org/mayaandmiguel