How to Make Traditional Mexican Rosca de Reyes

Rosca de Reyes, also known as the King's Cake, is a beloved Mexican pastry traditionally enjoyed on January 6th, the Day of the Three Kings. This sweet bread, shaped like a ring and adorned with vibrant fruits, symbolizes the arrival of the Three Wise Men. Making a traditional Rosca de Reyes at home is a delightful experience that brings family and friends together. Follow these steps to create your very own Rosca de Reyes.

Ingredients

To make Rosca de Reyes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Colorful candied fruits for decoration (such as cherries and citrus slices)
  • Dried or plastic figurine (traditionally a baby Jesus)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step activates the yeast, ensuring your bread will rise nicely.

2. Mix the Ingredients

Once the yeast is activated, add the softened butter, eggs, orange zest, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt to the mixture. Gradually stir in the flour until a dough begins to form.

3. Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.

4. Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.

5. Shape the Rosca

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into a long, oval ring. Pinch the ends together to form a circle. Place the ring on a greased baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Add the Baby Jesus Figurine

To add a touch of tradition, insert the figurine of baby Jesus into the dough from underneath, ensuring it is hidden. This is an essential part of the celebration, as the person who finds the figurine is expected to host the next gathering on Día de la Candelaria (February 2nd).

7. Decorate the Rosca

Before letting the dough rise a second time, decorate the top with colorful candied fruits, placing them in a pattern to mimic a crown. This adds color and sweetness to the Rosca de Reyes.

8. Second Rise

Cover the decorated Rosca with a cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it puffs up again.

9. Bake the Rosca

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the Rosca for 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden brown. Check for doneness by tapping the bottom; it should sound hollow when cooked through.

10. Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the Rosca from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Serve it in slices, accompanied by hot chocolate or atole, for a true Mexican experience. Enjoy sharing this delicious, festive bread with your loved ones!

Making Rosca de Reyes is not just about the delicious bread; it's also about the joy and tradition it brings to your home. With these steps, you're sure to create a delectable and festive treat that celebrates the rich culture of Mexico.