Ingredients:

  • 500g bread flour
  • 11g active dry yeast
  • 120ml whole milk, warmed to 105°F
  • 100g granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 135g unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons orange zest
  • 1 teaspoon orange blossom water
  • 5g fine sea salt
  • 100g all-purpose flour
  • 100g powdered sugar
  • 100g vegetable shortening or butter
  • 1 large egg for egg wash
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 200g candied fruit (ate de membrillo, cherries, or orange strips)
  • 2-4 plastic baby figurines

Instructions:

  1. In a stand mixer bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and one tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add the remaining sugar, 3 eggs, orange zest, orange blossom water, and bread flour. Mix on low speed until a shaggy mass forms.
  3. Increase speed to medium and incorporate 135g of softened butter one tablespoon at a time. Knead for 10–12 minutes until the dough passes the windowpane test.
  4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1.5 to 2 hours or until doubled in size.
  5. Prepare the sugar paste by mixing 100g all-purpose flour, 100g powdered sugar, and 100g shortening until a smooth paste forms.
  6. Punch down the dough, roll into a 30-inch log, and insert plastic figurines from the bottom. Join ends to form an oval ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let rise for another 45-60 minutes.
  7. Brush with egg wash. Decorate with strips of sugar paste and candied fruits. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until golden brown.