Jul 14 2026

King Cake Recipe

Time3h
Serves12

Traditional New Orleans King Cake.

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Ingredients

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King Cake Ingredients

Method

King Cake Directions

  1. 1

    Prepare the Dough

    In a small bowl, combine warm milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, mix flour, remaining sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Make a well in the center, add yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a soft dough forms.

  2. 2

    Knead and Rise

    Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

  3. 3

    Shape the Cake

    Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out into a large rectangle (about 1/4 inch thick). Spread a layer of butter, sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar. Roll tightly into a log and shape into a circle. Pinch the ends to seal.

  4. 4

    Second Rise

    Place the shaped cake on a greased baking sheet, cover, and let rise again for about 30-45 minutes.

  5. 5

    Bake

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.

  6. 6

    Prepare the Icing

    In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Adjust consistency with more milk or sugar if needed.

  7. 7

    Decorate

    Drizzle the icing over the cooled cake and sprinkle with colored sugar (purple, green, and yellow) to decorate.

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