Go Back

Mardi Gras King Cake

This Mardi Gras King Cake is a soft, buttery delight filled with cinnamon sugar and topped with vibrant icing and sprinkles. Perfect for bringing the Carnival spirit to your kitchen!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rising time 3 hours
Total Time 4 hours
Servings 12
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 240 ml warm milk
  • 7 g active dry yeast
  • 100 g granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 115 g softened butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 500 g all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt

For the Filling:

  • 150 g brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 115 g softened butter

For the Decoration:

  • 200 g powdered sugar
  • 2 –3 tbsp milk
  • Purple green, and gold sanding sugar
  • 1 plastic baby figurine

Instructions
 

  • Mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 tsp sugar in a bowl and let sit until frothy, about 5 minutes.
  • Add eggs, butter, vanilla, and remaining sugar to the yeast mixture and whisk until smooth.
  • Gradually mix in flour and salt until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
  • Punch down the dough and roll it into a 10x20-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
  • Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon.
  • Roll the dough tightly into a log and shape it into a ring, pinching the ends together to seal.
  • Place the dough ring on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover with a towel for a second rise of 30–45 minutes.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough rises.
  • Bake the cake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown, then let it cool completely on a wire rack.
  • Mix powdered sugar and milk to create a thick glaze, then drizzle over the cooled cake.
  • Sprinkle purple, green, and gold sugar over the glaze in sections and hide a plastic baby underneath the cake before serving.

Notes

Yeast Check: Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast.
Decorate Fresh: Add glaze and sprinkles just before serving for best results.
Storage: Keep covered at room temp for 2 days or freeze slices for up to 1 month.