Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup candied fruit (optional)
- 1 egg yolk, beaten (for egg wash)
Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, almond flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix on low speed until combined.
2. Add the softened butter, milk, eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until the dough comes together.
3. Increase the speed to medium and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Add the chopped cherries, slivered almonds, and candied fruit (if using). Mix on low speed until the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round loaf. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Brush the top of the loaf with the beaten egg yolk.
9. Bake the bolo rei for 30-35 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Let the bolo rei cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Rising time: 1-2 hours
- Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
- Makes one 8-inch (20 cm) loaf
- Serves 8-10 people
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 270
- Total fat: 11g
- Saturated fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 62mg
- Sodium: 170mg
- Total carbohydrates: 37g
- Dietary fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 16g
- Protein: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almond flour: You can substitute with hazelnut flour or all-purpose flour.
- Dried cherries: You can substitute with raisins, currants, or cranberries.
- Candied fruit: You can omit or substitute with chopped dried apricots or figs.
Variations:
- Chocolate Bolo Rei: Add 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate to the dough.
- Orange Bolo Rei: Add 1 tbsp orange zest to the dough and substitute the almond extract with orange extract.
- Nutella Bolo Rei: Spread a layer of Nutella on the dough before shaping it into a loaf.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before adding it to the dough.
- Use a kitchen scale to measure the ingredients for accuracy.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for best results.
- Brush the egg wash lightly to avoid a heavy coating that can cause the loaf to burn.
Storage instructions:
- Store the bolo rei in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the bolo rei, wrap it in foil and place it in a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Dust the bolo rei with powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve the bolo rei with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Garnishes:
- Slivered almonds
- Candied cherries
- Fresh berries
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot chocolate
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Cheese plate
- Charcuterie board
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it comes together.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- If the bolo rei is browning too quickly, cover it with foil and continue baking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all equipment before starting to prepare the recipe.
- Check the expiration date of the yeast before using it.
- Store the bolo rei in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
- Bolo Rei is a traditional Portuguese cake that is typically eaten during the Christmas season. It is shaped like a crown and contains dried fruits and nuts.
Flavor profiles:
- The bolo rei has a sweet and nutty flavor from the almonds and dried cherries. The candied fruit adds a touch of sweetness and texture to the loaf.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the bolo rei as a dessert or a sweet breakfast treat.
Related Categories
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Region: Portuguese
Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Fruity, Almondy, Cherry, Cherry-Flavored