Traditional Rosca de Reyes (Three Kings Bread) | YumAndJoy

Traditional Rosca de Reyes (Three Kings Bread)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rosca de Reyes is a beautifully festive bread traditionally enjoyed on Three Kings Day (Día de los Reyes) on January 6th. This rich, buttery bread is infused with citrus and cinnamon, adorned with candied fruits and nuts, and topped with a sugar glaze. Shaped like a crown to symbolize the Magi’s journey, this bread is both delicious and symbolic. Whether you’re celebrating with family or trying this traditional treat for the first time, it’s a wonderful way to mark the occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Dough

  • All-purpose flour
  • Active dry yeast
  • Granulated sugar
  • Salt
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Orange zest
  • Butter (unsalted)
  • Milk (warm)
  • Water (warm)
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • Almond extract

Toppings & Garnish

  • Candied cherries
  • Mixed candied fruits and peels
  • Candied orange peels
  • Pecans or almonds
  • Powdered sugar
  • Extra milk (for glaze)

Directions

Prepare the Dough

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water with a teaspoon of sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and orange zest.
  3. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, eggs, vanilla, and almond extract. Stir until combined.
  4. Knead the Dough: Add softened butter and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook on medium speed.
  5. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Shape and Decorate

  1. Form the Rosca: Punch down the dough and shape it into a large ring. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  2. Add Decorations: Brush the dough with egg wash, then arrange candied fruits and nuts on top to resemble a crown.

Bake and Glaze

  1. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
  2. Prepare the Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with a few teaspoons of milk until smooth.
  3. Glaze and Serve: Once the bread is slightly cooled, drizzle the sugar glaze over the top. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 16
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Rise Time: 1.5 hours
  • Bake Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours

Variations

  • Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
  • Filled Version: Stuff with sweetened cream cheese or a cinnamon sugar filling.
  • Nut-Free Option: Omit the nuts and use extra candied fruit instead.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes or microwave briefly.
  • Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.

FAQs

What is Rosca de Reyes?

Rosca de Reyes is a traditional Mexican and Spanish sweet bread enjoyed on January 6th to celebrate the arrival of the Three Wise Men.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate the dough overnight and let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

How do I ensure my yeast is active?

Use warm (not hot) water, around 110°F (43°C), and let it sit until foamy. If it doesn’t bubble, the yeast may be expired.

What does the hidden baby figurine represent?

Traditionally, a small figurine is hidden inside the bread, representing baby Jesus. The person who finds it is expected to host a gathering on Día de la Candelaria (February 2nd).

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, but reduce the rise time slightly since instant yeast works faster.

What can I serve with Rosca de Reyes?

Pair it with hot chocolate, coffee, or atole (a traditional Mexican hot drink).

Why is my bread too dry?

Overbaking or adding too much flour can dry it out. Bake just until golden brown.

Can I use pre-made candied fruit?

Yes! Store-bought candied fruit works great for convenience.

Can I make this without eggs?

Yes, replace each egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg.

Is Rosca de Reyes similar to King Cake?

Yes! Both are eaten for Epiphany, but King Cake (popular in Louisiana) is often filled with cinnamon or cream cheese and topped with colored sugar.

Conclusion

Rosca de Reyes is a delicious and symbolic bread that brings joy to Three Kings Day celebrations. With its soft, buttery texture and beautiful candied fruit topping, this festive treat is a must-try for the holiday season. Whether you make it for tradition or just to enjoy a special homemade bread, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends!

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Traditional Rosca de Reyes (Three Kings Bread)

Traditional Rosca de Reyes (Three Kings Bread)


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  • Author: asma
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 16 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Celebrate Three Kings Day with this Traditional Rosca de Reyes, a festive and buttery sweet bread! Infused with orange zest, cinnamon, and vanilla, and decorated with candied fruits and nuts, this soft and golden bread resembles a royal crown. Perfect for sharing with family during this special holiday tradition!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 2/3 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
  • 1/2 cup water (warm)
  • 3 eggs
  • 8 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp almond extract

For Decoration:

  • 3/4 cup mixed candied fruits and peels
  • Candied cherries
  • Candied orange peels
  • 1/2 cup pecans or almonds
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, warm water, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and orange zest. Add eggs, vanilla, almond extract, and yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead & Rise: Add softened butter and knead for 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  4. Shape the Rosca: Punch down the dough and shape it into an oval ring. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
  5. Decorate: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the dough with milk. Arrange candied fruits, cherries, and nuts on top.
  6. Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
  7. Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with 2 tbsp milk to make a glaze. Drizzle over the cooled Rosca before serving.

Notes

  • Traditionally, a small baby figurine is hidden inside before baking to represent Baby Jesus.
  • Serve with hot chocolate or coffee for the full experience.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Rise Time: 1.5 hours
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, Holiday
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican, Spanish
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