Roscón De Reyes Three Kings Cake

The holiday season brings a special magic to the air, and for many Spanish-speaking countries, that magic is embodied in the traditional Roscón De Reyes, also known as the Three Kings Cake. This iconic Christmas dessert is not only delicious but also a symbol of celebration and togetherness. Imagine a sweet, ring-shaped bread adorned with candied fruits, representing the jewels of the Three Wise Men. It’s a treat that not only looks beautiful but also tastes divine, making it the perfect addition to your festive spread.

**Roscón De Reyes Three Kings Cake**

**Ingredients:**
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup warm milk
– 1 packet dry yeast
– 3 eggs
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– Zest of 1 orange
– Zest of 1 lemon
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– ½ cup candied fruits (mix of orange, cherries, lemon)
– 1 small porcelain or plastic figurine (optional)
– 1 dry bean (optional)
– 1 egg yolk, beaten
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons water

**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, mix the warm milk with the dry yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
2. Add the flour, sugar, salt, eggs, orange blossom water, orange zest, lemon zest, and softened butter to the yeast mixture. Knead the dough for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and shape it into a ring, making a hole in the center. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet.
6. If using, insert the figurine and dry bean into the dough to bring good luck to the finders.
7. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
8. Brush the risen dough with the beaten egg yolk and decorate the top with the candied fruits.
9. Bake the Roscón De Reyes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
10. While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar and water until smooth.
11. Once the Roscón De Reyes is out of the oven, let it cool slightly before brushing it with the glaze for a shiny finish.

Enjoy this festive Roscón De Reyes Three Kings Cake with a cup of hot chocolate or a glass of sparkling wine on Christmas morning with your loved ones. It’s a delightful tradition that adds a touch of magic to the holiday season. Happy baking and Feliz Navidad!