Bolo Rei (Portuguese Christmas Kings Cake)

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Notes

Tips to get this recipe just right:

  • The Wreath Shape: Place a bowl or cup in the middle ring to prevent the hole from closing while baking.
  • Presentation: Sprinkle extra icing sugar over a slice when serving to make it look extra special and add just a little extra sweetness with every bite.
  • Making in Advance: You can make this one or two days in advance (especially if you wanted to have it on Christmas Day). The best way to store the cake is in a sealed container to keep the cake from drying out. If it does feel a little dry, pop it in the microwave for 10 seconds a slice or 30-45 seconds for the whole cake.
  • Freezing: Once it’s cooked and cooled, if you won’t eat it in the next 3-4 days, pop it in the freezer and store for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to thaw it out, just pop it in the oven for 10 minutes on 180°C (350°F).
  • Variation 1: Leave off the fruit on top of the cake and you’ve just made Bolo Rainha or Portuguese Queens Cake.
  • Variation 2: Customise the flavour by using different fruit and nuts to suit your taste.
  • Substitute Port: Any other spiced liquor such as brandy, sherry, frangelico or cointreau.

Notes

Tips to get this recipe just right:

  • The Wreath Shape: Place a bowl or cup in the middle ring to prevent the hole from closing while baking.
  • Presentation: Sprinkle extra icing sugar over a slice when serving to make it look extra special and add just a little extra sweetness with every bite.
  • Making in Advance: You can make this one or two days in advance (especially if you wanted to have it on Christmas Day). The best way to store the cake is in a sealed container to keep the cake from drying out. If it does feel a little dry, pop it in the microwave for 10 seconds a slice or 30-45 seconds for the whole cake.
  • Freezing: Once it’s cooked and cooled, if you won’t eat it in the next 3-4 days, pop it in the freezer and store for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to thaw it out, just pop it in the oven for 10 minutes on 180°C (350°F).
  • Variation 1: Leave off the fruit on top of the cake and you’ve just made Bolo Rainha or Portuguese Queens Cake.
  • Variation 2: Customise the flavour by using different fruit and nuts to suit your taste.
  • Substitute Port: Any other spiced liquor such as brandy, sherry, frangelico or cointreau.

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