The Traditional New Orleans King Cake is a festive and symbolic pastry that holds a special place in the hearts of New Orleanians, particularly during the Mardi Gras season. This vibrant and decadent cake is adorned with colorful icing and sparkling sugar, creating a visual spectacle that mirrors the exuberance of the city’s Carnival celebrations. Join us as we delve into the long and detailed history of the Traditional New Orleans King Cake, along with its ingredients and instructions, and embark on a journey to savor the irresistible flavors and traditions of this beloved dessert.

The tradition of the King Cake can be traced back to ancient Roman festivals and pagan celebrations held in honor of Saturn, the god of agriculture. The cake represented the arrival of spring and was used to choose a king or queen for the day.

In Christianity, the King Cake is associated with the celebration of Epiphany, also known as Twelfth Night or the Feast of the Three Kings. This Christian holiday commemorates the visit of the Magi to the baby Jesus. In New Orleans, the King Cake is enjoyed from January 6th, the official start of Carnival season, until Mardi Gras, the day before Ash Wednesday.

The cake itself is a symbol of unity and community. It is traditionally made in a circular shape to represent the unity of all people and the continuous circle of life. Hidden within the cake is a small plastic baby figurine, representing baby Jesus. Whoever finds the baby in their slice of cake is crowned king or queen for the day and is responsible for hosting the next King Cake party.

PREP: 40 MIN. + RISING

BAKE: 25 MIN. + COOLING

MAKES: 1 CAKE (12 SLICES) 2 packages (¼ ounce each) active dry yeast

INGREDIENTS 

FOR THE DOUGH:

• 1 cup whole milk, warmed
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs

FOR THE FILLING:

• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

FOR THE ICING AND DECORATION:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• Purple, green, and yellow food coloring
• Colored sugar or sprinkles (purple, green, and yellow)

INSTRUCTIONS 

FOR THE DOUGH:

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, melted butter, flour, salt, and eggs.
3. Pour the yeast mixture into the bowl and stir until the dough comes together.
4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

FOR THE FILLING:

1. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon.
2. On a floured surface, roll out the risen dough into a rectangle approximately 20×10 inches.
3. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
4. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture over the buttered dough.
5. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log, sealing the edges.

SHAPING AND BAKING:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Form the rolled log of dough into a ring and seal the ends together, ensuring there are no gaps.
3. Place the ring-shaped dough on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
5. Bake the King Cake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it turns golden brown.
6. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

FOR THE ICING AND DECORATION:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. The icing should be thick but pourable.
2. Divide the icing into three separate bowls. Add purple food coloring to one bowl, green to another, and yellow to the third. Mix until the desired colors are achieved.
3. Drizzle the colored icing over the cooled King Cake, alternating between the three colors.
4. Sprinkle colored sugar or sprinkles in a purple, green, and yellow pattern over the icing, creating a festive and vibrant decoration.

SERVING:

• Traditional New Orleans King Cake is traditionally served sliced into individual portions. Remember to let your guests know about the hidden baby figurine inside the cake. The person who finds it in their slice is crowned king or queen and is responsible for hosting the next King Cake party.

NOTES:

• The Traditional New Orleans King Cake is a beloved symbol of Mardi Gras and the rich cultural heritage of New Orleans. With its colorful icing, festive decorations, and hidden baby figurine, it brings joy and excitement to Carnival celebrations. As you savor a slice of this iconic cake, you become part of a tradition that spans centuries, symbolizing unity and community. Enjoy the soft and sweet dough, the cinnamon-sugar filling, and the vibrant colors that evoke the spirit of Mardi Gras. May each bite bring you closer to the lively and exuberant atmosphere of New Orleans and the festive traditions that make this cake truly special.