Mardi Gras King Cake Recipe
Rebecca
If you've been searching for a festive and delicious dessert that will wow your friends and family, look no further than this traditional Mardi Gras King Cake recipe. A vibrant symbol of celebration, the King Cake takes center stage during Mardi Gras season with its rich flavors, sweet filling, and colorful glaze.
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Cook Time 2 hours hrs 40 minutes mins
Total Time 3 hours hrs 10 minutes mins
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ½ cup warm milk 110°F
- ⅓ cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- Optional Add-ins: chopped pecans cream cheese, or dried fruits for extra flavor.
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk adjust for desired consistency
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Purple green, and gold sprinkles (or sanding sugar)
- Optional plastic baby or trinket for traditional Mardi Gras fun
Start by dissolving the active dry yeast in warm milk (110°F) with a teaspoon of sugar. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Mix together the sugar, softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt in a mixing bowl. Gradually add in the flour, alternating with the activated yeast mixture. Use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough for 5 minutes, or knead by hand until it becomes elastic and smooth. Cover the dough with a towel and set it aside to rise in a warm place for 45 minutes.
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle (about 14x18 inches) on a floured surface. Brush the surface with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with the filling mixture (brown sugar and cinnamon).
Roll the dough into a log starting from the longer side, then shape it into a circular ring. Pinch the edges to seal the seam, and transfer the ring onto a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow it to rise again for another 45 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the cake has cooled, whisk together the glaze ingredients (powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla) and drizzle over the top. Finish by decorating with purple, green, and gold sprinkles. For added tradition, hide a small plastic baby or trinket under the cake (make sure to inform your guests before serving).
- Room Temperature: Store your King Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate: For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Warm up slices in the microwave for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
- Freeze: Wrap the cake (unglazed) tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and glaze before serving.
Keyword Mardi Gras King Cake