Roscón de Reyes with a Twist

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) orange blossom water 1/4 cup (60ml) orange blossom water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
• 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar (for dusting) 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Candied fruits (optional, for decoration) Candied fruits (optional, for decoration)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 58g, 22g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and orange zest. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, orange blossom water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Meanwhile, prepare the chocolate filling by melting the chocolate chips and heavy cream in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool.
6. 6.
   Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a long rectangle.
7. 7.
   Spread the chocolate filling evenly over one of the rectangles, leaving a small border around the edges. Place the other rectangle on top and seal the edges by pressing them together.
8. 8.
   Carefully shape the dough into a ring, ensuring the filling is enclosed. Place the ring on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. 9.
   Cover the ring with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until slightly puffed.
10. 10.
    Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the Roscón de Reyes for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar and decorate with candied fruits, if desired.
12. 12.
    Slice and serve this delightful Spanish King's Cake to celebrate any special occasion.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Orange zest — Make sure to use organic oranges and wash them thoroughly before zesting to avoid any pesticide residue.
• Orange blossom water — Use a high-quality orange blossom water to ensure a fragrant and authentic flavor.
• Dark chocolate chips — Opt for good-quality dark chocolate chips with at least 70% cocoa for a rich and intense chocolate flavor.
• Heavy cream — Use cold heavy cream straight from the refrigerator for easier whipping and a creamier texture.
• Candied fruits — If using candied fruits for decoration, ensure they are well-drained and pat them dry before placing them on the cake.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the citrus flavor, you can add a few drops of orange extract to the dough.
• For a more festive touch, sprinkle slivered almonds on top of the cake before baking.
• If you prefer a lighter filling, you can substitute the chocolate filling with whipped cream or pastry cream.
• Make sure to let the dough rise in a warm place free from drafts to ensure proper fermentation.
• To check if the cake is cooked through, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Serving advice

Serve the Roscón de Reyes as a centerpiece dessert during special occasions or as a delightful treat with a cup of coffee or tea. Slice it into generous portions and enjoy the combination of fluffy cake and luscious chocolate filling.

Presentation advice

Present the Roscón de Reyes on a decorative platter or cake stand. Dust it generously with powdered sugar to create a snowy effect. Arrange candied fruits on top for an elegant and festive touch.