Sweet Treats for Day of the Dead

Dia de los Muertos or "Day of the Dead" is a tradition in hispanic cultures dating back some 2500-3000 years. It is a celebration in remembrance of the dead. November first is known as All Saints Day, and it honors children who have died, while November second, All Souls Day, is celebrated in honor of deceased adults. It is believed that the spirits of the dead will visit their relatives on Dia de los Muertos, and in honor of the dead, the families prepare an alter and leave offerings.

Though it is a Mexican holiday, it has spread and is now celebrated in areas all over the world. In fact, several Mexican communities in the United States now hold Day of the Dead celebrations. Some of these celebrations are said be very traditional, while others are a blend of Mexican and American culture.

Today chocolate skulls and coffins and other Halloween treats compete with the traditional Mexican Day of the Dead cuisine, but the traditional sweets of Dia de los Muertos are still known to be very delicious. In celebration of this holiday or as a special Halloween treat try making your own sugar skulls or Mexican sweet bread, called pan de muertos.