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King Cake

Lily Anderson
Celebrate Mardi Gras with this colorful King Cake, a sweet cinnamon and vanilla treat that brings joy and togetherness to any occasion.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Dessert, Holiday Treat, Snack
Cuisine American, Festive
Servings 12 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the dough

  • 1 cup warm whole milk Warm but not hot for yeast activation.
  • 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast Check expiration date for freshness.
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar Divided into two amounts.
  • 3.5 cups all-purpose flour For a lighter texture.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor.
  • 2 large eggs At room temperature.
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter Melted and cooled before adding.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds flavor.

For the filling

  • 0.25 cup brown sugar Packed for sweetness.
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon For flavor.

For the glaze

  • 0.25 cup powdered sugar For sweetness.
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk or Greek yogurt To achieve a pourable consistency.

For decoration

  • 0.5 cup colored sanding sugars Use purple, green, and gold.
  • 1 optional plastic baby figurine or dried bean Traditionally hidden in the cake for fun.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large bowl, pour the warm milk, sprinkle in the yeast and one tablespoon of granulated sugar, and stir gently. Allow to rest for 5 to 7 minutes until frothy.
  • Stir in melted butter, remaining sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 6 to 8 minutes until elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
  • Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Shaping and Baking

  • Deflate the dough gently, roll it into a 12x18 inch rectangle.
  • In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the dough evenly.
  • Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet, forming a circle and pinching the seams.
  • Cover with a tea towel and let rest for 30 minutes.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Brush the dough with milk or beaten egg for a glossy finish.
  • Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.

Glazing

  • Transfer to a wire rack and cool slightly. Whisk together powdered sugar and milk or yogurt, then drizzle over the warm cake.
  • Sprinkle sanding sugars over the glaze while it's still warm.
  • Optionally tuck in the baby figurine beneath the cake or inside a slice before serving.

Notes

Make sure the milk is warm but not hot when adding yeast. For storage, keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
Keyword Cinnamon Cake, Festive Dessert, King Cake, Mardi Gras, Sweet Bread