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New Orleans King Cake

A warm, festive tradition, this New Orleans King Cake is a buttery, cinnamon-sweet treat that's perfect for celebrations.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the dough
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed Swap for almond milk for a lighter option.
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast One packet.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted Slightly cooled; use olive oil for a dairy-free twist.
  • 3 large eggs Room temperature.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Plus extra for dusting; can use half whole wheat.
For the filling
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon Toast for extra depth.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the glaze and decoration
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk or cream
  • to taste Purple, green, and gold sanding sugar Or colored sprinkles.
  • 1 small plastic baby or ceramic trinket (optional) Wrap in plastic before hiding.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Warm the milk until lukewarm (about 110°F). Stir in 1 tablespoon sugar and sprinkle yeast over the top. Let bloom for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, remaining sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt. Stir in the milk and yeast mixture.
  3. Gradually add the flour, stirring until a soft dough forms. Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
  4. Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Filling and Shaping
  1. Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until it holds together like wet sand.
  2. Punch down the dough and roll into a rectangle about 12 by 18 inches. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly, leaving a small border. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log.
  3. Shape into a ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet, pinching the seams to seal. If using the baby, tuck it into the dough seam securely.
  4. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
Baking
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Brush the top gently with a beaten egg for shine. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and the internal temperature reaches about 190°F.
  2. Let cool for 10 minutes. Whisk powdered sugar and milk until smooth, drizzle over the warm cake. Sprinkle generously with purple, green, and gold sugar while the glaze is tacky.

Notes

Store at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before glazing. Reheat slices in a low oven (300°F) for 8-10 minutes.