Austin’s French Legation is adding a sweet twist to Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating pan dulce, a beloved pastry with a rich history. Summer Carper shared insights into this delightful treat, explaining that pan dulce’s vibrant history is influenced by French culinary traditions.
“The French Legation State Historic Site is one of 42 sites across the entire state of Texas under the Texas Historical Commission. We are kind of just on the side of I-35, and it is a beautiful park space. It is the oldest house still standing in Austin.”
The French Legation invites everyone to experience this taste of history firsthand with upcoming programming.
“So Pan dulce is such a long-standing baking tradition. Pan dulce means sweet bread and has roots in different kinds of baking traditions and a lot of European influence, specifically French influence. Baking history is super interesting in general, which I think is super fascinating. Tuesday through Friday, we are doing Roots of pan dulce. That will feature some extra history about pan dulce, about East Austin baking history, as well as an oral history from the founder of Joe’s Bakery, who so kindly donated these here today.”
For those curious about the events or wanting to add more to their calendars, the French Legation offers a chance to explore the cultural fusion that makes pan dulce a cherished part of Hispanic heritage.
Dining and Cooking