Step 1

In a large bowl, stir together the yeast and warm water.

Step 2

Mix and set aside for 10 minutes.

Step 3

Add the evaporated milk, 1/3 cup sugar, salt, 1/3 cup butter, egg and 2 cups of the flour.

Step 4

Mix everything on medium speed.

Step 5

Stop mixing and scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Step 6

Gradually add in the remaining flour and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon.

Step 7

Knead with the hook attachment for 10-15 minutes.

Step 8

Do not add more flour.

Step 9

Turn the dough out onto a floured counter.

Step 10

Place the dough in a greased bowl.

Step 11

Turn the dough to coat the bottom.

Step 12

Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel.

Step 13

Let rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size. About 2 hours.

Step 14

In a bowl, beat 2/3 cup powdered sugar and 1/2 cup butter until light and fluffy.

Step 15

Scrape the sides of the bowl, making sure to mix everything.

Step 16

Stir in the flour, cinnamon, and vanilla.

Step 17

Mix until the mixture is the consistency of a thick paste. It will look like wet sand.

Step 18

Divide into two parts, and place one part in a separate bowl.

Step 19

If making chocolate conchas, add cocoa powder to one of the bowls, and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 20

When the dough is done rising, divide into 12 pieces.

Step 21

Make sure the dough pieces are the same size, or they will not bake evenly.

Step 22

Shape the dough into balls.

Step 23

Place on a greased cookie sheet.

Step 24

Space the dough pieces out about 3 inches apart.

Step 25

Gently press them down with the back of your hand.

Step 26

Make 6 balls of the chocolate topping mixture and 6 balls of the white topping mixture.

Step 27

Place each ball between wax paper.

Step 28

Using a rolling pin, roll out the balls enough to cover the dough balls.

Step 29

Grease the top of the dough with melted butter, oil, or shortening.

Step 30

Place the rolled out topping on top of the dough balls.

Step 31

Pat down lightly.

Step 32

Use a knife to cut the grooves in the topping like a shell or criss cross.

Step 33

Cover and let rise until doubled. About 45 minutes to an hour.

Step 34

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

Step 35

Bake for 20 minutes.

Step 36

Enjoy!