Traditional Bolo Rei Recipe | Portuguese Christmas King Cake

Bolo Rei is a traditional Portuguese Christmas cake, made from a soft brioche dough filled with candied fruits and dried fruits. It is traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season and symbolizes sharing and celebration.

Ingredients for the traditional Bolo Rei

• 500 g flour
• 100 g sugar
• 100 g butter
• 3 eggs
• 25 g fresh baker’s yeast
• 200 g artisan candied fruits (cherries, orange peel, angelica, pineapple)
• 100 g dried fruits (walnuts, almonds, pine nuts)
• Zest of one orange
• 1 tablespoon rum
• Icing sugar for decoration

How to prepare the Bolo Rei

1. Dissolve the yeast in a small amount of warm water and let it rest for a few minutes.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, melted butter, eggs and orange zest.
3. Add the yeast and knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Gently fold in the candied fruits and dried fruits, then shape the dough into a crown.
5. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, until doubled in size.
6. Bake at 180°C (356°F) for 35 to 40 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Once cooled, decorate with additional candied fruits and dust lightly with icing sugar.

Bolo Rei is a festive cake traditionally enjoyed in Portugal during the Christmas season. Its soft brioche texture, combined with the richness of candied fruits and dried fruits, makes it a true symbol of sharing and celebration.

For an even more authentic experience, serve your Bolo Rei with a cup of coffee or a glass of Portuguese wine, and choose high-quality candied fruits to enhance both flavor and texture.</p

Curious to learn more about the history behind this festive cake? Discover the origins and traditions of the Bolo Rei, the iconic Portuguese Christmas dessert. Read the full story here.