The flavour of almond cream or the buttery goodness of brioche tastes of childhood for many people in Southern Europe, some of whom still have the charms and figurines that won them the coveted crown on Epiphany. This holiday on January 6 each year is yet another occasion for bringing families together over the festive period.
The ritual has deep roots, yet most of us are unaware of its origin. The king cake tradition dates back to antiquity, as the ancient Romans celebrated Saturnalia around the same time of the year. At the end of the feast, the youngest guest would distribute slices of the cake, one of which contained the bean that designated the day’s king or queen.
This tradition took on religious significance when early Christians co-opted it to refer to the Magi who visited the Christ Child. Each region that celebrates Epiphany, including those in southern Europe, has its own local variant.