Go Back

Authentic Mardi Gras King Cake

This traditional Mardi Gras King Cake is a delightful blend of rich brioche-like dough, warm cinnamon, and a sugary glaze, perfect for celebrations and family gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed (about 110°F) Swap for almond milk for a lighter, healthy option.
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 to 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • Zest of 1 orange Adds bright citrus notes; lemon zest is a fine substitute.
Filling and Topping Ingredients
  • 1 cup brown sugar For filling.
  • 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted For brushed filling.
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons light corn syrup Or 2 tablespoons milk for glaze.
  • Food coloring purple, green, and gold Or make a natural dye using fruit powders.
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (optional) For a richer center.
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar (optional) For sweetening cream cheese filling.
  • 1 plastic baby trinket (traditional) or small charm Wrap in plastic before inserting, or inform guests and omit for safety.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small bowl, whisk warm milk, 1 teaspoon sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour, remaining sugar, salt, and orange zest. Add eggs and softened butter, then the foamy yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 hour.
Filling and Shaping
  1. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Melt 1/2 cup butter and set aside.
  2. Punch down dough and roll into a rectangle about 12 by 18 inches. Brush generously with melted butter and sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon sugar.
  3. If using cream cheese filling, spread it as a line down the center now.
  4. Starting at one long edge, roll tightly into a log. Bring ends together to form a ring and pinch to seal.
  5. For an extra-fancy look, split the log lengthwise and braid the two strips, then join ends to form a crown.
Rising and Baking
  1. Place the ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F. Brush the top with an egg wash for shine and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Glaze and Serve
  1. Cool slightly. Mix powdered sugar with corn syrup or milk until thick but pourable. Divide glaze into three bowls and tint purple, green, and gold.
  2. Drizzle white glaze over the cake, then quickly sprinkle colored sugar stripes in traditional sections while glaze is tacky.
  3. If using a charm, wash and wrap it and insert into the cake from the bottom or notify guests where it is hidden.

Notes

Store at room temperature wrapped in foil or an airtight container for up to 2 days. Refrigerate if you added cream cheese filling; it will last 3 to 4 days. For a healthier option, try using half whole-wheat flour for a nuttier crumb or reduce sugar slightly for a less-sweet cake.