Rosca de Reyes: Mexican Three Kings Bread Recipe
Rosca de Reyes, or Three Kings Bread, is a soft, orange-flavored sweet bread traditionally made in Mexico to celebrate Epiphany on January 6th. This festive bread is decorated with candied fruits, guava paste, and a sweet streusel topping, and often hides a Baby Jesus figurine inside. Whoever finds the figurine is tasked with hosting a tamale feast on Candlemas Day (February 2nd). This recipe is perfect for family gatherings and cultural celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- ⅔ cup whole milk
- 2 ¼ teaspoons yeast
- ¾ cup white sugar split into portions
- 2 ½ cups bread flour
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup melted butter
- 4 large eggs
- Zest from 2 medium oranges
- 1 teaspoon cooking oil
For the Sugar Topping
- 1 egg yolk
- ½ cup plain flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup softened unsalted butter
For the Decoration
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Candied cherries
- Strips of guava paste or quince paste
- 1-3 small Baby Jesus figurines optional
Instructions
- Dough Preparation: Warm milk to 110–115°F, stir in yeast and 1 tbsp sugar. Cover and let foam for 5 minutes. Combine flours, remaining sugar, and salt in a mixer. Add melted butter, eggs, orange zest, and yeast mixture.
- Knead with a dough hook for 6–8 minutes until smooth. Transfer to an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1½ hours until doubled.
- Shaping: Divide dough into two balls. Stretch each into a 10½ x 7½-inch oval ring. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets, cover, and rise for 45 minutes.
- Sugar Paste: Mix egg yolk, flour, sugar, and butter. Shape into 16 strips and chill.
- Decorating and Baking: Preheat oven to 350°F. Whisk egg and milk, brush over dough. Add sugar paste strips, guava paste, and cherries. Bake for 25 minutes, switching sheet positions halfway. Cool 30 minutes.
- Final Step: Insert Baby Jesus figurines from the bottom and serve.
Notes
- Rosca de Reyes is traditionally eaten on January 6th for Epiphany.
- Use orange zest for a stronger, natural flavor compared to orange extract.
- Swap and rotate baking sheets halfway through baking for even cooking.
- Decorate with candied cherries, guava paste, and Baby Jesus figurines for authenticity.