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Classic Homemade King Cake

A festive treat that combines a tender, buttery dough with a cinnamon-sugar swirl, glazed in sweet icing and decorated in vibrant colors, perfect for celebrations like Mardi Gras.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Traditional
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed to about 110°F Acts as the tender base.
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet) Or instant yeast.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature Plus 1 for egg wash.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 to 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Swap part with whole wheat pastry flour for a healthier option.
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Filling Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 pinch nutmeg Optional.
Glaze Ingredients
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons milk or cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
Decorations
  • purple, green, and gold sanding sugar or colored sprinkles Hide a small plastic baby or token (optional).

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bloom the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warmed milk with 1 tablespoon sugar and the yeast. Let sit 5 to 10 minutes until foamy and fragrant.
  2. Make the dough: In a stand mixer bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add eggs, vanilla, softened butter, and the yeast mixture. Mix with the dough hook on low until combined.
  3. Knead to soft dough: Gradually add remaining flour until the dough is soft, slightly sticky, and pulls away from the bowl. Knead 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic—the dough should pass a gentle windowpane test.
  4. First rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 60 minutes.
  5. Prepare filling: Beat together softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until spreadable and pillowy.
Shaping and Baking
  1. Shape the cake: Punch down dough, turn onto a lightly floured surface, and roll into a 12 by 18-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Roll tightly from the long edge into a log.
  2. Form the ring: Pinch seams closed, form a ring, and tuck ends to join. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Second rise: Cover and let rise 30 to 45 minutes until puffed and slightly puffy to the touch.
  4. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush with beaten egg for a glossy finish. Bake 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches about 190°F.
Glazing and Serving
  1. Glaze and decorate: Cool the cake for 10 minutes, then drizzle the glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. While the glaze is tacky, sprinkle on purple, green, and gold sugars in sections.
  2. Hide a baby under the cake after cooling or warn guests if inserting before serving.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute plant milk and vegan butter. For a richer cake, swap one egg for an extra yolk. Variations include cream cheese filling, chocolate additions, or healthier swaps.