Roscon de Reyes: The Traditional Spanish Christmas Bread

Roscon de Reyes is more than just a sweet bread, it brings families together every January 6th, the Day of the Epiphany. This ring-shaped cake is soft, fluffy, and fragrant with orange zest and a hint of orange blossom water. It is decorated with colorful candied fruits and almonds that sparkle like jewels on a royal crown. They go with breakfast, brunch, or dessert, and anyone with a sweet tooth or a love for holiday traditions will love this bread, whether enjoyed with a cup of hot chocolate or a glass of wine.

What is Roscon de Reyes?

Roscon de Reyes is a Spanish sweet bread baked to celebrate the arrival of the Three Wise Men. Traditionally, a small figurine or coin is hidden inside the dough, and the person who finds it is said to have good luck for the year. Its distinctive ring shape symbolizes a crown, while the vibrant candied fruits represent the jewels of a king’s crown.

Over the centuries, this bread has become a beloved holiday ritual in Spain and many Latin American countries, with families gathering to share it and celebrate together.

Pro Tips for the Best Roscon de Reyes

• Use fresh yeast rather than dried for a lighter texture.
• Knead the dough thoroughly until smooth to ensure an even rise.
• Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot for a perfect puff.
• Brush with egg wash twice before baking to achieve a golden finish.
• Don’t overcrowd the decorations, candied fruits and almonds should be spread evenly to avoid weighing down the dough.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Can I Use Instead of Orange Blossom Water?

If orange blossom water isn’t available, a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a few drops of orange extract works well as a substitute. The flavor won’t be exactly traditional, but it will still add a lovely floral note to the bread.

How Do I Know When the Roscon is Fully Baked?

The bread should be golden brown on top, and when tapped, it should sound hollow. An internal temperature of around 90°C/194°F indicates it’s fully cooked, and if it browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the remaining baking time.

Can I Hide a Toy or Coin in the Dough?

Absolutely! Traditionally, a small figurine or coin is placed inside the bread before baking. Just make sure it’s wrapped in foil to keep it safe, and remind everyone to be cautious while cutting slices.

How to store Roscon de Reyes?

Roscon de Reyes is best enjoyed fresh, within 1-2 days of baking. If stored properly in an airtight container, it can last up to 4 days, though the texture might soften slightly over time.

How to Make Roscon de Reyes

Step 1

Step 1

In the mixing bowl, beat the eggs and add the yeast mixture. Mix well, then add salt and knead the dough by hand.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and orange zest. Stir until evenly mixed.

Step 2

Step 2

Keep kneading until smooth.

In a small bowl, mix milk, melted butter, fresh yeast, and a few drops of orange blossom water.

Step 3

Step 3

Transfer the risen dough to a parchment-lined baking tray and shape it into a donut-like ring, and brush with egg wash.

In the mixing bowl, beat the eggs and add the yeast mixture. Mix well, then add salt and knead the dough by hand.

Step 4

Step 4

Let the dough rise for 1 hour and brush again with egg wash.

Keep kneading until smooth.

Step 5

Step 5

Arrange candied cherries, orange pieces, flaked almonds, and sugar granules on top.

Cover with a cloth and let rise for 3 hours.

Step 6

Step 6

Allow to cool slightly, then slice and enjoy your festive Roscon de Reyes.

Transfer the risen dough to a parchment-lined baking tray and shape it into a donut-like ring, and brush with egg wash.

Step 7

Step 7

Let the dough rise for 1 hour and brush again with egg wash.

Step 8

Step 8

Arrange candied cherries, orange pieces, flaked almonds, and sugar granules on top.

Step 9

Step 9

Bake at 170°C/340°F for 40 minutes.

Step 10

Step 10

Allow to cool slightly, then slice and enjoy your festive Roscon de Reyes.