Halloween and Day of the Dead
Sugar skulls for November 2nd
By
Kiwilimón - 2018-10-16T09:24:29.838925Z
Initially, skulls were used in the tzompantli, an altar used by Mesoamerican cultures. What would now be our typical offering. For Mesoamerican cultures, death was considered the end of a stage of life that led to another level, so it was common to preserve skulls as a sign of this.
With the arrival of the Spanish conquerors, the use of this custom, among many others, was prohibited, but a way was found to continue the ritual of the skulls without having to use the real ones. This is how they began to create skulls from edible ingredients.
Facts you didn't know about sugar skulls:
Sugar skulls are made using a technique brought by the Spanish called alfeñique, a type of candy made from sugar that forms a moldable paste
The first states in Mexico that started the tradition and continue it to this day are Guanajuato, Morelos, and the State of Mexico
In fact, in the State of Mexico, there is an annual alfeñique fair, that technique inherited from the Spanish, and there are countless sugar skulls
Another metaphor of sugar skulls is that it should represent our fragility as humans and how easy it is to get hurt
Chocolate, amaranth, and nut skulls are quite recent; the original 100% is the sugar one
Recipes
Are you craving it already? Whether you want to decorate your altar, share the skulls with children, or simply continue the tradition, here are our top three recipes for sugar skulls for this Day of the Dead:
White chocolate skull
It may not be the traditional skull, but it is undoubtedly one of the people's favorites. With a super sweet flavor and a super silky texture, you will see how it tempts anyone who sees it. Just try to keep it in cool places so it doesn't start to melt too soon.
Sugar skulls
Now, if you want to stay true to tradition, then this is the recipe you were looking for. Small sugar skulls decorated with colors and ideal for altars. It only takes 20 minutes to prepare them, so you can make many and even use them as gifts or a treat for your friends.
Amaranth skulls
Looking for a slightly healthier skull? Of course, it's possible. These mini amaranth skulls are a less sugary alternative to the traditional skull, but that doesn't mean they are not delicious and folkloric. They have a very rich sweet flavor with raw sugar and are finished with chocolate drops for the eyes, giving them that little chocolate touch that kids will love.