King Cake (bolo Rei)

King Cake, also known as Bolo Rei, is a traditional Portuguese dessert typically enjoyed during the Christmas season. This sweet bread is studded with candied fruits and nuts, making it a festive and delicious treat.

Vegetarian Dessert Portuguese Portuguese Cuisine King Cake Bolo Rei Christmas Dessert
King Cake (bolo Rei)

Ingredients

  • 500g all-purpose flour
  • 100g granulated sugar
  • 10g active dry yeast
  • 150ml warm milk
  • 100g unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 100g candied fruits (such as raisins, candied orange peel, and candied cherries)
  • 50g chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts)
  • 1 tbsp rum or port wine
  • 1 small plastic or ceramic figurine (to hide inside the cake)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and sugar. Make a well in the center and add the yeast and warm milk. Let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add the softened butter and eggs to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, then place it back in the bowl and cover with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
  4. After the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and knead in the candied fruits, nuts, and rum or port wine.
  5. Shape the dough into a ring and place it on a baking sheet. Press the figurine into the dough, then cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the King Cake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Let the cake cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Carbohydrates
45g
Protein
7g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Baking sheet Kitchen towel

Tools

Mixing bowl Whisk Measuring cups and spoons Bread knife

Serving suggestions

Serve the King Cake with a cup of Portuguese coffee or a glass of port wine for a delightful dessert experience.

Tips & tricks

Make sure to hide the figurine well inside the cake to bring luck to the person who finds it in their slice!

Cost

$15