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
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, warm water, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Decorate: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the dough with milk. Arrange candied fruits, cherries, and nuts on top.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
- 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
