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king cake recipe

King Cake Recipe

Pinklady
King Cake dates back to the Middle Ages in Europe and was brought to the U.S. by French settlers. Traditionally eaten between January 6 (the Epiphany) and Mardi Gras day, King Cake celebrates the arrival of the three kings who brought gifts to baby Jesus.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Europe
Servings 12
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Electric mixer (optional)
  • Rolling Pin
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Small bowl for glaze
  • Plastic baby or bean (optional)

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 1/2 cup warm water (about 110°F)
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup whole milk (room temperature)
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Filling:

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Glaze:

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tbsp whole milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Decorations:

  • Colored sugar sprinkles in purple, green, and gold
  • Optional: small plastic baby or a bean for tradition

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Activate the Yeast
    In a small bowl, mix the warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, signaling that the yeast is activated.
  • Step 2: Mix the Dough
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon. Add the yeast mixture, milk, eggs, and melted butter. Using your hands or an electric mixer, mix the ingredients until a soft dough forms.
  • Step 3: Knead the Dough
    Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, gradually add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
  • Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
    Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  • Step 5: Prepare the Filling
    While the dough is rising, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl to make the filling.
  • Step 6: Roll and Fill the Dough
    Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 10x20 inches. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly across the dough.
  • Step 7: Shape the Cake
    Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a log, and then form it into a circle or oval on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pinch the ends together. If you’re adding a plastic baby or bean, tuck it underneath the dough at this point (optional).
  • Step 8: Let it Rise Again
    Cover the formed dough with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
  • Step 9: Bake the Cake
    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen again, bake the cake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Step 10: Make the Glaze
    While the cake cools slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. The consistency should be pourable but not too runny.
  • Step 11: Decorate the Cake
    Drizzle the glaze over the warm King Cake, then immediately sprinkle with purple, green, and gold sugar. Let the cake cool completely before serving.

Video

Keyword King Cake Recipe