Kings’ Bread Ring

This bread is usually served on January 6, Three Kings’ Day. The person who gets the small china doll is expected to host a Candlemas Day party on February 2.

INGREDIENTS | SERVES 8

2 cups candied fruits (citron, cherries, orange peel)

3 large eggs

2 teaspoons (or 1 package) active dry yeast

1⁄2 cup warm water

1⁄2 cup milk

1⁄3 cup white granulated sugar

1⁄3 cup shortening

2 teaspoons salt

4 cups all-purpose flour

Tiny china doll (approximately 1" high)

1⁄2 cup melted butter

11⁄3 cups confectioners’ sugar

4 teaspoons water

1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract

  1. Chop candied fruits into 1⁄4" pieces. In a bowl, beat the eggs until the yolks and whites are blended. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water.
  2. Heat the milk in a small saucepan at medium-high temperature until scalded.
  3. Combine the granulated sugar, shortening, and salt in a large bowl. Pour in the scalded milk and mix until sugar is dissolved and the shortening is melted. Let cool to lukewarm.
  4. Beat in 1 cup of the flour, the eggs, and yeast. Add more flour until a stiff dough is formed. Stir in 11⁄2 cups of the candied fruits.
  5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and satiny. Roll the dough to form a long rope; shape into a ring, sealing the ends together. Transfer to a greased baking sheet. Push the tiny china doll into the dough so that it is completely covered. Brush the ring with melted butter.
  6. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 11⁄2 hours.
  7. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  8. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
  9. Blend together the confectioners’ sugar, 4 teaspoons water, and vanilla extract to make an icing. When the bread is cool, spread the icing over the top.