This Traditional King Cake is a soft, sweet, and cinnamon-filled pastry that embodies the festive spirit of Mardi Gras. With a rich cream cheese filling, a golden-baked dough, and a colorful glaze topped with purple, green, and gold sanding sugar, this classic New Orleans dessert is a must-have for any celebration.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Mardi Gras Treat – A traditional king cake that captures the flavors of New Orleans.
- Soft and Sweet – A tender, homemade dough with a rich cinnamon cream cheese filling.
- Colorful and Festive – The signature purple, green, and gold sugar makes it the centerpiece of any celebration.
- Perfect for Gatherings – Great for sharing at Mardi Gras parties, family gatherings, or special occasions.
- Customizable – Can be filled with different flavors or decorated in various ways.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Dough:
- Warm milk (110°F)
- Active dry yeast
- Granulated sugar
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Ground cinnamon
- Eggs
- Unsalted butter (melted)
- Vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Brown sugar
- Cinnamon
For the Frosting:
- Powdered sugar
- Milk
- Vanilla extract
- Purple, green, and gold sanding sugar
Directions
Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients.
- Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Make the Filling:
- In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
Assemble the King Cake:
- Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about ¼-inch thick.
- Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, then form it into a ring shape, pinching the ends together to seal.
- Transfer the ring to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover and let the dough rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the king cake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let it cool completely before adding the glaze.
Decorate the Cake:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.
- Sprinkle with purple, green, and gold sanding sugar while the glaze is still wet.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 8-10 slices
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: About 2 hours 30 minutes
Variations
- Fruit-Filled King Cake – Add raspberry, apple, or strawberry preserves inside the filling.
- Pecan Praline Twist – Mix chopped pecans and caramel into the cream cheese filling.
- Chocolate Drizzle – Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the glaze for an extra indulgent touch.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating – Instead of frosting, brush with melted butter and coat in cinnamon sugar.
- Nut-Free Version – Omit any nut toppings and use fruit or additional cream cheese for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze before frosting for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.
FAQs
What does a traditional king cake symbolize?
King cake is associated with Epiphany and Mardi Gras, symbolizing luck and prosperity. The colors represent justice (purple), faith (green), and power (gold).
Can I add a plastic baby inside the cake?
Yes! Traditionally, a small plastic baby is placed inside after baking, and the person who finds it hosts the next celebration.
Can I make this without a stand mixer?
Yes, you can knead the dough by hand; it will take about 8-10 minutes of kneading to develop elasticity.
Can I use store-bought dough instead of homemade?
Yes, you can use pre-made bread or crescent dough, but homemade dough gives the best texture and flavor.
How do I prevent my king cake from drying out?
Cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
Can I make mini king cakes instead?
Yes, divide the dough into smaller portions and shape them into mini rings for individual servings.
What other toppings can I add?
Chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar can enhance the flavor.
What’s the best way to get an even drizzle of glaze?
Use a spoon or a piping bag for controlled drizzling over the top.
Can I use different flavors for the frosting?
Yes, try almond or lemon extract instead of vanilla for a unique twist.
What should I serve with king cake?
Enjoy it with coffee, hot chocolate, or a festive Mardi Gras cocktail!
Conclusion
This Traditional King Cake brings the spirit of Mardi Gras right to your kitchen with its soft, cinnamon-filled dough, rich cream cheese filling, and vibrant festive glaze. Whether you’re celebrating with family and friends or simply enjoying a taste of New Orleans, this king cake is sure to be a highlight of the season!
