DETROIT – The staff at MexicanTown Bakery is busy this week, making hundreds of Rosca De Reyes at its location in southwest Detroit.
Rosca De Reyes, according to the bakers, is a seasonal treat. The ring-shaped sweet bread is part of a longtime cultural tradition around Jan. 6.
“After Christmas, you know, you have a family reunion,” said Ana Ruvalcava, a manager at MexicanTown Bakery. “This is another opportunity to be together.”
Rosca De Reyes is served on the Epiphany, or Three Kings Day. It’s when believers say the Three Wise Men visited baby Jesus with gifts.
The bakers said their Roscas, or colorfully decorated King Breads, are in high demand. So, the team is busy filling orders and stocking the shelves.
“It’s really delicious,” Ruvalcaba said. “Some of it comes with caramel inside, some of them come with pecan, and some of them come plain.”
With the tradition, the Rosca De Reyes is baked with a little plastic baby inside.
It’s symbolic of the baby Jesus. Part of the fun, according to some customers, it’s considered good luck to receive a slice of the Rosca with the baby inside.
However, that person will have a special duty to perform for family and friends.
“Whoever gets the baby inside has to make the tamales,” said Valeria Lopez.
You’ll find the team at MexicanTown Bakery makes Rosca De Reyes in several sizes.
Workers say they will make between 1,500 and 2,000 of the specialty breads throughout the week, in addition to their regular selection of cakes, cookies, pastries, tamales, and other treats.
MexicanTown Bakery is located at 4600 W. Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48209.
Click here for more information about their authentic Rosca De Reyes and other menu items.