Prepare to dazzle your taste buds with this Original King Cake recipe, a festive and flamboyant centerpiece for any Mardi Gras celebration. Packed with tradition and a burst of flavors, this cake is not just a dessert; it’s a party in every slice.
Why This Recipe Works
- Authentic flavors that bring the spirit of New Orleans right to your kitchen.
- Perfect balance of sweetness and spice, thanks to the cinnamon and sugar filling.
- Eye-catching purple, green, and gold icing that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
- Soft, brioche-like dough that’s surprisingly easy to work with.
- Includes the traditional plastic baby, because what’s a King Cake without the surprise?
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 packets (1/2 oz) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- Purple, green, and gold colored sugars
- 1 plastic baby (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Large mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, melted butter, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until the dough comes together, then increase to medium speed and knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Tip: The dough should be slightly sticky but not wet. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size. This is the perfect time to prepare your filling and colored sugars.
Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough
Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 10×20 inch rectangle. Mix cinnamon and brown sugar, then sprinkle evenly over the dough. Roll the dough tightly from the long side, sealing the edge with a bit of water. Form into a circle and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Tip: For a more festive look, tuck the plastic baby into the dough before baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Let the shaped dough rise for another 30 minutes, then bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before icing.
Step 5: Decorate with Icing and Sugars
Mix powdered sugar with a little milk to create a thick icing. Drizzle over the warm cake and immediately sprinkle with purple, green, and gold sugars. Tip: Apply the sugars while the icing is still wet to ensure they stick.
Tips and Tricks
For an even more authentic King Cake, consider making your own colored sugars by mixing granulated sugar with a few drops of food coloring. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought colored sugars. To ensure your cake is as fluffy as possible, make sure your yeast is fresh and your milk is at the correct temperature. If you’re not a fan of the traditional cinnamon filling, feel free to experiment with other fillings like cream cheese or fruit preserves. Remember, the key to a great King Cake is in the decoration, so don’t skimp on the icing and sugars!
Recipe Variations
- Cream Cheese Filling: Mix 8 oz softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tsp vanilla for a creamy twist.
- Chocolate King Cake: Add 1/2 cup cocoa powder to the dough and fill with chocolate chips for a decadent version.
- Fruit-Filled King Cake: Use your favorite fruit preserves as the filling for a fruity flavor.
- Savory King Cake: Skip the sugar and fill with cheese and herbs for a unique take on the classic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before rolling and filling.
Q: Where can I find a plastic baby for the cake?
A: Many baking supply stores carry them, especially around Mardi Gras. If you can’t find one, a small bean or almond can be a fun substitute.
Q: How do I store the King Cake?
A: The cake is best enjoyed the day it’s made but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The sugars may bleed a bit, but it will still taste delicious.
Summary
This Original King Cake recipe is a festive, flavorful, and fun way to celebrate Mardi Gras. With its soft, sweet dough, cinnamon filling, and vibrant decorations, it’s sure to be the highlight of any party. Don’t forget the plastic baby for good luck!
