Christmas is approaching, and many are preparing their shopping lists for festive lunches and dinners. But when it comes to choosing between the “bolo-rei” or “bolo-rainha,” which is more budget-friendly? In most cases, the “bolo-rainha” is more expensive, with price differences reaching up to four euros.
“The ‘bolo-rei’ is available in supermarkets starting at 8 euros per kilo, and from 13 euros in bakeries and local pastry shops. However, prices can be significantly higher. In most establishments, the ‘bolo-rainha,’ as caloric as the ‘bolo-rei,’ is more expensive. The difference between them can be as much as 4 euros,” explains DECO PROteste.
Upon calculation, “per kilo, the traditional ‘bolo-rei’ costs starting at 8 euros if you choose to buy in a hypermarket,” while “it proves to be a bit pricier in traditional bakeries and pastry shops, with prices per kilo starting at 13 euros and even reaching up to 30 euros.”
Bolo-rainha is an alternative for those not fond of candied fruit, but it’s more expensive
The consumer protection organization notes that, “for those who are not fans of candied fruit, there’s ‘bolo-rainha,’ nut cake (with or without winter squash), chocolate ‘bolo-rei’—made with nuts and chocolate—, chestnut ‘bolo-rei,’ and even ‘bolo-rei’ made with carob flour.”
“But having a different taste from the majority is costly, as the price is higher. Whatever your choice to accompany the festive season, look for the best flavor and price in hypermarkets and pastry shops in your area,” is noted on the consumer protection organization’s website.
Furthermore, the “place of purchase makes a price difference, as well as the ingredients.”
“The ‘bolo-rainha’ is a bit more expensive than the ‘bolo-rei’. Without the addition of candied fruit, pine nuts, pineapple, crunchy praline, caramelized violet petals, or egg yolk strands increase the cake’s price. In pastry shops, the ‘bolo-rainha’ is sold starting at 13 euros per kilo, but it can reach up to 33 euros. For those intolerant to gluten, ‘bolo-rei’ or ‘bolo-rainha’ suitable options can be found between 22.50 euros and 25 euros per kilogram,” explains the consumer protection organization.

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DECO PROteste also advises to “pay attention to the surprise”:
“It should come wrapped and clearly visible. It must be distinguished from the food by color, size, consistency, and presentation, and be constructed so as not to pose a risk of choking, poisoning, puncturing, or blocking the digestive tract,” it states.

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