King Cake

There’s something magical about making a King Cake that brings back fond memories of lively celebrations and family gatherings. Growing up, I always looked forward to Mardi Gras season, not just for the parades and festivities, but for the deliciously rich and colorful King Cake that graced our table. The moment that sweet aroma filled the air, it felt like a signal that the celebrations were underway. As a child, I was always eager to find the hidden baby inside this traditional cake, and it became a cherished ritual to share the cake with family and friends. Each bite of the soft, fluffy dough infused with cinnamon and sugar reminded me of the warmth of those celebrations, and now, I want to share this beloved recipe with you.

King Cake Ingredients

Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients, and the King Cake is no exception. Each element plays a vital role in creating a delightful flavor and texture.

• 1 packet active dry yeast (0.25 ounce): This is the magic that makes your cake rise, creating that light and fluffy texture we all love.
• ¼ cup warm water (110-115 degrees F): This helps to activate the yeast, ensuring your dough rises properly.
• 1 tsp granulated sugar: A little sweetness to nourish the yeast and enhance the flavor of the dough.
• 3 ½ – 4 cups all-purpose flour (divided): Essential for structure and texture, this will help form a soft, pliable dough.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
• 1 cup milk (warm 110-115 degrees F): Adds moisture and richness to the dough, enhancing its flavor.
• 1 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 2 large eggs (room temperature): Adds richness and moisture, contributing to the cake’s tender crumb.
• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter (softened): Provides a lovely buttery flavor and tender texture to the cake.
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed): A deeper sweetness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
• 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives the King Cake its iconic flavor.
• ½ cup pecans (chopped): Adds a delightful crunchy texture and flavor contrast.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick, melted): For the filling, this helps to bind the sugar and cinnamon together.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Essential for the sweet glaze that tops the cake.
• 1-2 Tbsp milk (depending on consistency): Adjusts the glaze to your desired texture.
• ½ tsp clear vanilla: Enhances sweetness and adds depth to the glaze.
• Mini plastic baby: A fun tradition to include! The person who finds it is said to have good luck.
• Colored sugar (purple, yellow, and green): For decorating the King Cake and making it festive!

The Process for Making King Cake

Making a King Cake is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with sweet aromas. Let’s dive into the steps together!

1. Start by heating ¼ cup warm water to a temperature between 100 and 110 degrees F. Pour it into a mixing bowl. Add the packet of active dry yeast and 1 tsp of granulated sugar. Stir gently to coat the yeast. You should start to see it foam after a few minutes—this means it’s active!
2. Once the yeast is bubbly, add ¼ cup granulated sugar, 6 Tbsp softened unsalted butter, 1 cup warm milk, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp salt, and 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Beat it until smooth. It should be thick and creamy.
3. Gradually add in more flour until the dough begins to form a soft ball. It will still be a bit sticky, but that’s okay! Turn it out onto a floured surface.
4. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back when pressed gently.
5. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Turn the dough to coat all sides in oil. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 45 to 60 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Once it’s risen, punch it down and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle, about 10 inches by 20 inches. Make sure it’s even.
7. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon, and ½ cup chopped pecans. Add the melted ½ cup unsalted butter and mix until combined.
8. Sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough, leaving about a ½ inch margin around the edges. If you’re using the mini plastic baby, now’s the time to tuck it in!
9. Carefully roll the dough from the long side, jelly-roll style. Pinch the seam to seal it tightly. Shape it into a ring on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Cover the dough ring with plastic wrap and let it rise again for 45 to 60 minutes until it’s puffed up and almost doubled in size.
11. About 20 minutes before it’s done rising, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Baking time is usually around 25 to 35 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown color.
12. Once baked, remove the King Cake from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.
13. For the glaze, mix together 1 cup powdered sugar, 1-2 Tbsp milk, and ½ tsp clear vanilla until you reach your desired consistency. Spoon it over the cooled cake.
14. Finally, decorate with colored sugar. The vibrant colors represent the Mardi Gras spirit!

Recipe Variations about King Cake

The King Cake is versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes. Let’s explore some fun variations!

• Stuffed King Cake: Try adding different fillings like cream cheese or fruit preserves for a delightful surprise.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure the other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
• Vegan Variation: Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal and use non-dairy milk and butter alternatives.
• Flavor Infusions: Experiment with different flavorings like almond extract or citrus zest for a unique twist.
• Mini King Cakes: Make individual-sized cakes for parties or gatherings. Everyone loves their own little cake!

Pairing Suggestions for King Cake

The King Cake is not just a treat; it’s a centerpiece for celebration. Here are some perfect pairing suggestions:

• Coffee: A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch.
• Tea: A mild herbal tea can balance the sweetness and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds a refreshing touch, perfect for balancing the richness of the cake.
• Celebrate with Friends: Serve it during a casual gathering or special occasion. Everyone will love a slice of King Cake.
• Storage Tips: Leftover cake can be stored at room temperature for a few days; just wrap it tightly in plastic.

FAQ

Conclusion

The King Cake is truly a special treat that brings together flavors, tradition, and celebration. It encapsulates the spirit of Mardi Gras, and every slice comes with a story and a memory. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; gather your loved ones, and enjoy the process of creating something beautiful together. With its vibrant colors and sweet flavor, the King Cake is sure to be a standout at any occasion.

King Cake

The ultimate festive treat, this King Cake is a rich and fluffy delight filled with cinnamon and sugar, perfect for celebrating Mardi Gras. With its colorful toppings and hidden baby, it's not just a cake but a fun tradition that brings joy to any gathering. Make it tonight for an unforgettable treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 16 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 packet active dry yeast (0.25 ounce)
• ¼ cup warm water (110-115 degrees F)
• 1 tsp granulated sugar
• 3.5-4 cups all-purpose flour (divided)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup milk (warm 110-115 degrees F)
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup pecans (chopped)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick, melted)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 Tbsp milk (depending on consistency)
• ½ tsp clear vanilla
• 1 Mini plastic baby
• colored sugar purple, yellow, and green

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Heat ¼ cup warm water to a temperature between 100 and 110 degrees F. Pour it into a mixing bowl. Add the packet of active dry yeast and 1 tsp of granulated sugar. Stir gently to coat the yeast.
2. Once the yeast is bubbly, add ¼ cup granulated sugar, 6 Tbsp softened unsalted butter, 1 cup warm milk, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp salt, and 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Beat it until smooth.
3. Gradually add in more flour until the dough begins to form a soft ball. It will still be a bit sticky, but that’s okay! Turn it out onto a floured surface.
4. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back when pressed gently.
5. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Turn the dough to coat all sides in oil. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 45 to 60 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Once it’s risen, punch it down and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle, about 10 inches by 20 inches.
7. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon, and ½ cup chopped pecans. Add the melted ½ cup unsalted butter and mix until combined.
8. Sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough, leaving about a ½ inch margin around the edges. If you’re using the mini plastic baby, now's the time to tuck it in!
9. Carefully roll the dough from the long side, jelly-roll style. Pinch the seam to seal it tightly. Shape it into a ring on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Cover the dough ring with plastic wrap and let it rise again for 45 to 60 minutes until it’s puffed up and almost doubled in size.
11. About 20 minutes before it’s done rising, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Baking time is usually around 25 to 35 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown color.
12. Once baked, remove the King Cake from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.
13. For the glaze, mix together 1 cup powdered sugar, 1-2 Tbsp milk, and ½ tsp clear vanilla until you reach your desired consistency. Spoon it over the cooled cake.
14. Finally, decorate with colored sugar. The vibrant colors represent the Mardi Gras spirit!

Notes

• Check your yeast: It's crucial to ensure your yeast is fresh. Expired yeast won't rise, resulting in a dense cake.
• Watch the water temperature: Keeping the water between 100 and 110°F is essential for activating the yeast without killing it.
• Let it rise: The dough should double in size during the rise. Use this as your guide rather than just the time indicated.
• Cool before glazing: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the glaze; this prevents it from absorbing too much sweetness.

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Meet Hailey Anderson

My passion is creating food that nourishes your body without sacrificing flavor. I’m our main recipe developer for vibrant salads, smoothies, and feel-good breakfasts. When I’m not blending or chopping, I’m right alongside Brooke and Jenna, helping to cook and test our new dinner and dessert recipes. I’m a firm believer in balance!