Concha (Spanish, 'shell'), plural conchas, is a traditional Mexican sweet bread roll (pan dulce). Conchas get their name from their round shape and their striped, seashell-like appearance. A concha consists of two parts, a sweetened bread roll, and a crunchy topping (composed of flour, butter, and sugar). With the most common crunchy topping flavors being chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. Conchas are commonly found throughout Mexico (and its diaspora) in panaderias. They can now also be found in grocery stores and bakeries across the United States.
History
The exact origin of the concha is unknown. Many believe that it dates back to the colonial period, and was introduced by French bakers who settled in Mexico. The first recorded recipe for the sweet bread is from 1820. Through migration, the sweet bread has spread through Central, South, and North America.
The present
In recent years, conchas have gained visibility outside of Mexico. A "concha bun burger" won the James Beard Foundation's Blended Burger Project in 2016. With many...