Desserts > Cake > Traditional Portuguese Cakes

Pecan-Raisin Bolo Rei Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Large mixing bowl
- Plastic wrap
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Small bowl
- Oven

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix on low speed until well combined.
2. Add the softened butter, eggs, warm milk, and white wine to the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until a dough forms.
3. Increase the speed to medium and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Add the raisins, pecans, lemon zest, and orange zest to the dough. Mix on low speed until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Transfer the dough to a large mixing bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Punch down the dough and shape it into a ring. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the egg wash over the top of the dough.
9. Bake the bolo rei for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1-2 hours
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
5. Temperature:
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Serving size:
This recipe makes 1 bolo rei, which serves 8-10 people.

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 340
Fat: 13g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 14g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of dried fruit instead of raisins, such as cranberries or cherries.
- Walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans.
- Orange juice or apple cider can be used instead of white wine.

Variations:
- Add candied fruit or chocolate chips to the dough for a sweeter version.
- Use different spices, such as cardamom or ginger, for a different flavor profile.
- Make mini bolo reis by dividing the dough into smaller portions and shaping them into individual rings.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before adding it to the dough.
- Knead the dough for at least 5 minutes to develop the gluten and create a smooth texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place to help activate the yeast.
- Brush the egg wash lightly over the dough to create a shiny, golden crust.

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 oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the bolo rei on a platter and sprinkle it with powdered sugar. You can also decorate it with candied fruit or nuts.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle the bolo rei with powdered sugar or decorate it with candied fruit or nuts.

Pairings:
Serve the bolo rei with a cup of coffee or tea.

Suggested side dishes:
The bolo rei can be served as a dessert on its own, but you can also pair it with fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk or water.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the bolo rei is browning too quickly, cover it with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and any utensils or equipment used in the recipe to prevent contamination. Store the bolo rei properly to prevent spoilage.

Food history:
Bolo rei is a traditional Portuguese dessert that is typically served during the Christmas season. It is a sweet bread that is shaped into a ring and studded with dried fruit and nuts.

Flavor profiles:
The bolo rei has a sweet and nutty flavor, with hints of citrus and warm spices.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the bolo rei as a dessert or as a sweet breakfast treat.

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Region: Portuguese

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Fruity, Spicy, Moist