Rosca de Reyes
Three Kings Bread
A traditional oval-shaped sweet bread, adorned with colorful candied fruits and symbolic of the Three Kings' Day celebration. A small plastic baby figurine is hidden within the dough, and whoever finds it is said to host a tamale party on Candlemas Day (February 2nd).
🧂 Ingredients
- 600 g All-purpose flour(Plus extra for dusting)
- 150 g Granulated sugar(Divided use)
- 150 g Unsalted butter(Softened)
- 4 Large eggs(Room temperature)
- 10 g Active dry yeast
- 120 ml Warm milk(Approximately 40-45°C (105-115°F))
- 8 g Salt
- 1 tablespoon Orange zest(Finely grated)
- 150 g Candied fruit (e.g., cherries, citron, orange peel)(Assorted colors, cut into pieces if large)
- 2-3 Plastic baby figurines(Food-safe, heat-resistant)
- 1 egg Egg wash(Beaten with 1 tablespoon of water or milk)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar, and the active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This indicates the yeast is active.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, the remaining granulated sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center. Add the activated yeast mixture, softened butter, eggs, and orange zest to the well.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 3
Knead the dough: Mix the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for 10-15 minutes, or until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment and mix on low speed for 8-10 minutes.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 4
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
⏱️ 1.5 - 2 hours - 5
Shape the Rosca: Gently punch down the risen dough to release air. Transfer to a lightly floured surface. Shape the dough into a large oval wreath, about 1-inch thick. Carefully press the plastic baby figurines into the dough from the underside, spacing them out. Ensure they are well-hidden but secure.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 6
Second rise: Place the shaped wreath on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rise again in a warm place for 45-60 minutes, or until visibly puffy.
⏱️ 45 - 60 minutes - 7
Decorate and bake: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Brush the top of the risen dough with the egg wash. Arrange the candied fruit pieces decoratively over the dough. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
⏱️ 30 - 35 minutes - 8
Cool and serve: Let the Rosca de Reyes cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
⏱️ 30 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The plastic baby figurine is a key element; whoever finds it in their slice is traditionally responsible for hosting a tamale party on February 2nd (Candlemas Day).
- ✓This bread is traditionally enjoyed on January 6th, Epiphany (Día de Reyes).
- ✓Ensure the bread is large enough to be shared among family and friends.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of orange blossom water or a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Increase the amount of candied fruit for a more vibrant decoration.
- Fill the bread with a sweet cream or pastry cream before baking (ensure the filling is heat-stable or added after baking).
- Add a sprinkle of pearl sugar or sliced almonds for extra texture.