Roscón de Reyes
Holiday BreadThe Roscón de Reyes is a delightful sweet bread ring traditionally enjoyed during the Three Kings' Day festivities in Spain. Here's a step-by-step breakdown:
Instructions
Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
- Dissolve the yeast in a portion of warm water and let it sit until creamy.
- In a small saucepan, combine the remaining warm water, orange flower water, lemon zest, and cloves.
- Cook it covered on low heat for 10 minutes, then let it cool before removing and discarding the cloves.
Mix the Dough:
- Using an electric mixer in a large bowl, beat together the butter, lard (or vegetable shortening), sugar, and salt until smooth.
- Incorporate two eggs into the mixture.
- Add the brandy, scalded milk, the water-lemon mixture prepared earlier, and the yeast.
- Gradually blend in the flour with a wooden spoon until the dough is soft and slightly sticky.
- Knead it on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.
First Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and allow it to rise in a warm place (like an oven turned off) for approximately 2 hours until it doubles in size.
- After it has risen, punch down the dough and knead it for another 5 minutes.
- Insert a cleaned and dried good-luck charm, like a coin or miniature ceramic object, into the dough.
Shape and Decorate:
- Lightly grease a cookie sheet.
- Shape the dough into a large ring, sealing the ends well, and place it on the cookie sheet.
- Decorate the ring with candied fruit slices, gently pressing them into the dough.
- Let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size again.
Preheat and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Lightly beat the remaining egg and water in a small bowl to create an egg wash.
- Brush this over the risen dough.
- Sprinkle coarse sugar on top for a sweet finish.
- Bake the Roscón de Reyes for 35 to 40 minutes until it achieves a deep golden brown color.
Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:
This bread is not only a delicious treat but also holds the excitement of finding a surprise inside, adding an element of joy and tradition to the Three Kings’ Day celebrations in Spain.