Mexican Christmas celebrations are full of vibrant traditions, and one of the most beloved culinary delights of this festive season is the Rosca De Reyes, also known as the Three Kings Bread. This delightful sweet bread is not only delicious but also holds special significance in Mexican culture, symbolizing the journey of the three wise men to see the baby Jesus. Baking a Rosca De Reyes is a wonderful way to add a touch of Mexican tradition to your holiday celebrations!
Title: Rosca De Reyes Three Kings Bread
Ingredients:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 packet dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 3 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 cup candied fruit
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1 small figurine (optional for hiding in the bread)
– 1 egg yolk, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1/4 cup slivered almonds
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is activated and foamy.
2. Add the sugar, melted butter, eggs, salt, and orange zest to the yeast mixture. Mix well until everything is combined.
3. Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, stirring continuously until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and knead in the candied fruit and raisins until well distributed.
7. Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape each into a large ring, making sure to leave a hole in the center of each ring.
8. If you choose to add a figurine, hide it inside one of the dough rings.
9. Place the rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover them with a towel, and let them rise for another 45 minutes.
10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
11. Brush the risen dough with the beaten egg yolk, sprinkle with slivered almonds, and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
12. While the bread is baking, make the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth.
13. Once the Rosca De Reyes is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before drizzling the glaze over the top.
Enjoy this delightful Rosca De Reyes Three Kings Bread with a warm cup of traditional Mexican hot chocolate or coffee, and revel in the joy of the holiday season with this delicious and symbolic treat. Happy baking!
