King Cake Recipe

Preparation Steps

1. 1

   Prepare the Dough

   In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until a dough forms.

2. 2

   Knead the Dough

   Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.

3. 3

   Shape the Cake

   After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread a layer of softened butter, sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon. Roll the dough tightly into a log and shape it into a ring, sealing the edges.

4. 4

   Second Rise

   Place the ring on a greased baking sheet, cover with a cloth, and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes.

5. 5

   Bake the Cake

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the King Cake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool on a wire rack.

6. 6

   Prepare the Icing

   In a bowl, combine powdered sugar and milk to achieve a smooth icing consistency. Add food coloring to create green, yellow, and purple icing.

7. 7

   Decorate

   Once the cake is cooled, drizzle the icing over the top. Decorate with colored sugars (green, yellow, purple) to mimic the traditional King Cake appearance.