Rosca de Reyes is a special sweet bread which is eaten on King's Day (Epiphany), known as "Día de Reyes" in Mexico and celebrated on January 6. "Rosca" means wreath and "reyes" means kings. The bread is shaped in the form of a wreath and has candied fruit on top, and a figurine of a baby Jesus baked inside. The person who is served a piece of rosca with the figurine is expected to host a party on Día de la Candelaria (Candlemas), celebrated on February 2nd, when tamales are served.
Symbolism of the Rosca de Reyes:
The Rosca de Reyes symbolizes a crown, and the dried fruit on top are jewels on the crown. The figurine hidden inside represents Jesus who went into hiding from King Herod. The person who finds the baby Jesus is symbolically his godparent and must sponsor the party when he is taken to the temple to be blessed (on February 2nd).
Make or Buy a Rosca de Reyes:
You can make your own Rosca de Reyes with this recipe from About.com's Guide to Mexican Food: Rosca de Reyes Recipe. Alternatively, you can order a Rosca de Reyes online and have it delivered fresh to your door: buy direct.
