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Mardi Gras King Cake

A delightful, festive treat that is soft, sweet, and perfect for celebrating Mardi Gras. Easy to make and filled with sweet brown sugar, cinnamon, and pecans.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Traditional
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the dough
  • 1 cup warm milk Helps activate the yeast.
  • 1 packet instant rise yeast No need to proof first!
  • 1/4 cup melted butter Adds richness.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar Sweetness balance.
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar Additional for the yeast mixture.
  • 2 large eggs Provides structure.
  • 1/2 tsp salt Enhances flavor.
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Main ingredient for texture.
  • 2 tsp olive oil Prevents sticking.
For the filling
  • 2/3 cup brown sugar For sweet filling.
  • 2 tsp cinnamon Classic flavor.
  • 6 tbsp softened unsalted butter For spreading.
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans Optional for crunch.
For the icing
  • 1.5 cups powdered sugar For the icing.
  • 1.5 tbsp milk To thin the icing.
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla Adds depth to the icing.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Soak the egg in warm water for 5 minutes to warm it up.
  3. In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  4. In your stand mixer, add the yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter. Mix until combined.
  5. Add flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until everything is incorporated.
  6. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
  7. Place the dough in a bowl coated with olive oil. Cover it and let rise for 60 minutes in a warm location.
Baking
  1. After 60 minutes, punch the dough down and knead for another 1-2 minutes.
  2. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 20 inches long.
  3. Spread the softened butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar over the dough. Sprinkle with pecans if desired.
  4. Roll the dough tightly from the long side like a jelly roll.
  5. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking dish. Shape into a circle or oval, sealing the ends with water or milk.
  6. Cover and let rise for another 60 minutes. Brush with milk before baking.
  7. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Let cool for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

To ensure your King Cake turns out perfectly, use fresh yeast. Make sure your warm milk is not too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. Knead the dough thoroughly for a smoother texture and give it enough time to rise. Store your King Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.