Latin Based King Cake
"La Rosca de Reyes" (King Cake) in Mexico is traditionally eaten in January 6, during the celebration of the "Día de Reyes" (Wise Men Day). In most of Mexico, and sometimes Hispanic communities in the United States, this is the day when children get presents from the Three Wise Men (not from Santa). They leave a shoe outside, filled with hay or dried grass for the animals the Kings ride, before they go to bed along with a note. The Mexican “rosca de reyes” has an oval shape. For decoration, Mexican people use dried and candied fruits like figs, quinces or cherries.
The tradition of placing a figurine of the Christ Child inside the cake is followed. Whoever finds it must take it to the nearest church on the 2nd of February (Día de la Candelaria). The finder of the Niño Dios (bean, candy or baby doll) has the responsibility to take the family as well to church and celebrate the presentation of Jesus in the Temple. Most people prefer to have a party with tamales as well. According to the Jewish tradition, an infant is presented to God in the temple 40 days after his birth. Día de la Candelaria on February 2 means the Light of Christ presented to God.
Source: King cake - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
