Description
Indulge in the Creamy Mardi Gras King Cake, a rich and festive New Orleans classic! This soft, buttery pastry is swirled with a luscious cream cheese filling, baked to perfection, and topped with a sweet glaze and vibrant Mardi Gras sprinkles. Whether for a party or a holiday treat, this homemade king cake is a must-have for celebrating in style!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- Green, purple, and gold sprinkles
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, melted butter, eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla. Mix and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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Make the Filling:
- In a bowl, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
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Shape the Cake:
- Roll out the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll into a log, then form it into a ring, pinching the ends together.
- Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
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Bake:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
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Glaze & Decorate:
- Whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle over the cooled cake and sprinkle with green, purple, and gold sugar for the perfect Mardi Gras look!
Notes
- Hide a small plastic baby inside for a traditional Mardi Gras surprise!
- Add pecans or caramel drizzle for extra richness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
