Sweets and Desserts

Queen Cake

Festive version similar to the king cake, with dried fruits and without candied fruits.

Region / OccasionNational / Christmas
DifficultyDifficult
Total Time2 h 10 min
Yield12 slices
Photo of Queen Cake - traditional Portuguese sweet
Photo of the traditional Portuguese recipe.

Editorial content from Empório Portugal. Traditional recipes may vary by region, family, and cook.

About the Recipe

Queen Cake pleases those who prefer dried fruits instead of candied fruits.

It maintains the festive fermented dough, fragrant and in the shape of a crown.

Ingredients

  • 600 g of flour
  • 12 g of dry yeast
  • 150 g of sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 120 g of butter
  • 120 ml of warm milk
  • 300 g of walnuts, almonds, and chestnuts
  • Zest of lemon and orange
  • 1 egg yolk for brushing

Preparation Method

  1. Prepare the fermented dough with milk, eggs, sugar, butter, and flour.
  2. Knead until smooth.
  3. Add chopped dried fruits.
  4. Let it rise until doubled.
  5. Shape into a crown and brush with egg yolk.
  6. Bake until golden and fragrant.

Tips from Empório Portugal

  • Lightly toast dried fruits for more flavor.
  • Dough needs to rise slowly.
  • Cut only after it has cooled.

Possible Substitutions in Brazil

  • Brazil nuts can be included in the mix.
  • Use orange juice for flavoring without alcohol.

Pairing

Black tea, coffee, or Portuguese sparkling wine. Content intended for those over 18 years old. Drink responsibly.

Editorial Note from Empório Portugal

This recipe is part of the editorial curation of Empório Portugal, developed from Portuguese culinary tradition. Like all traditional recipes, it may vary according to region, family, and cook.

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