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Cinnamon Roll King Cake

A festive twist on a New Orleans classic, combining warm cinnamon-sugar spirals with a glossy glaze, perfect for celebrations or cozy breakfasts.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: New Orleans
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the dough
  • 1 cup warm whole milk (105 to 115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For the filling
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or raisins (optional) for texture
For the glaze
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons milk or cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • colored sanding sugars (optional) purple, green, gold for traditional decoration

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Stir the warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let sit 5 to 10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Whisk in the melted butter, egg, and vanilla. Add 2 cups of flour and the salt, mixing to combine. Gradually stir in the remaining flour until you have a soft, slightly sticky dough.
  3. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 6 to 8 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 to 1 1/2 hours.
Baking
  1. Punch down the dough and roll it into a large rectangle about 12 by 18 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture across the surface.
  2. Roll the dough tightly into a log and shape into a crown.
  3. Let the shaped cake rise for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  4. Brush the top lightly with melted butter and bake 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes, then drizzle the glaze over the cake.

Notes

Can be made ahead; dough freezes well. Swap whole milk with almond milk for a lighter option.