Creamy Mardi Gras King Cake

Celebrate Mardi Gras with this Cream Cheese King Cake, a rich and festive treat filled with sweet cream cheese and warm cinnamon flavors. This homemade New Orleans-style pastry is soft, buttery, and drizzled with a sweet glaze and vibrant sprinkles in traditional purple, green, and gold. Whether for a party, brunch, or a special holiday dessert, this cake is the perfect way to bring the spirit of Carnival season to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Creamy Filling – A smooth cream cheese filling adds extra indulgence.
• Soft & Fluffy Dough – Light, buttery, and perfectly spiced with cinnamon.
• Classic Mardi Gras Tradition – Brings the flavors of New Orleans into your kitchen.
• Festive & Beautiful – Decorated with vibrant Mardi Gras colors.
• Homemade Goodness – Freshly baked and better than store-bought versions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

• All-purpose flour
• Sugar
• Active dry yeast
• Cinnamon
• Butter, melted
• Eggs
• Warm milk
• Vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract

For the Glaze & Decoration:

• Powdered sugar
• Milk
• Green, purple, and gold sprinkles

Directions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

2. In a large bowl, combine flour, melted butter, eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla.
3. Pour in the yeast mixture and knead the dough until smooth (8-10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a stand mixer).
4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling & Shape the Cake

5. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle (about 10×20 inches).
7. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the dough.
8. Roll the dough into a log, then shape it into a ring, pinching the ends together.
9. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Bake the King Cake

10. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
11. Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool before glazing.

Step 5: Glaze & Decorate

12. Whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
13. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, then immediately decorate with green, purple, and gold sprinkles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Pecan Praline Filling – Add chopped pecans and brown sugar to the filling for a nutty crunch.
• Fruit-Filled King Cake – Mix in strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry preserves with the cream cheese.
• Chocolate Twist – Spread Nutella or melted chocolate instead of cream cheese.
• Brioche-Style Dough – Use extra butter and an extra egg for a richer texture.
• Cream Cheese Frosting – Swap the glaze for a thicker cream cheese icing.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a soft texture.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed cake for up to 1 month, thaw, and glaze before serving.

FAQs

What makes this different from a traditional king cake?

This version includes a rich cream cheese filling, making it extra creamy and indulgent.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes! Pre-made dough like crescent roll dough can be used for a shortcut, but homemade dough tastes best.

Can I add a plastic baby inside?

Yes! Traditionally, a plastic baby figurine is hidden inside the cake before serving. (Be sure to inform guests to avoid choking hazards.)

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dough a day in advance and let it rise overnight in the fridge before baking.

How do I make the cake extra soft?

Using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour or adding a tablespoon of honey helps keep the cake moist.

What if I don’t have green, purple, and gold sprinkles?

You can color granulated sugar by mixing it with food coloring or use colored sanding sugar.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum, but note that the texture may be slightly different.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

Make sure to leave a small border around the edges and roll the dough tightly to prevent leaks.

Can I use a different glaze?

Absolutely! Try a lemon glaze, cream cheese frosting, or a caramel drizzle for a twist.

What’s the best way to serve this cake?

Slice and serve with coffee, chicory coffee, or a festive cocktail.

Conclusion

This Creamy Mardi Gras King Cake is a decadent twist on the classic New Orleans tradition. With its soft dough, rich cream cheese filling, and festive decorations, it’s the perfect centerpiece for any Mardi Gras celebration. Whether you’re hosting a party or just indulging in a special homemade treat, this cake brings the spirit of Carnival straight to your kitchen. Laissez les bon temps rouler!