Liechtenstein Dreikönigskuchen Recipe
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Loading... - Alice Barone
- 28 Mar 2025
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Dreikönigskuchen, or "King Cake," is a traditional pastry enjoyed in Liechtenstein and other parts of Europe, especially during the Epiphany celebrations. This sweet, festive cake is often decorated and may contain a hidden figurine. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own Dreikönigskuchen at home.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds or hazelnuts
- 1/4 cup candied citrus peel (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Topping:
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Optional: a small figurine or dried bean (to hide in the cake)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, melted butter, eggs, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and nutmeg (if using).
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- In a small bowl, mix the raisins, chopped nuts, candied citrus peel, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle (about 1/2 inch thick).
- Sprinkle the filling mixture evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other to form a log. Shape the log into a circle, pinching the ends together to form a ring.
- Place the shaped cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with a cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Beat the egg and brush it over the top of the cake for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar.
- If desired, hide a small figurine or dried bean inside the cake before serving. Traditionally, the person who finds the figurine is crowned "king" for the day!
Enjoy your homemade Dreikönigskuchen as part of your Epiphany celebrations or any festive occasion.
