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King Cake: A Festive Mardi Gras Tradition


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  • Author: sofia
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 12 slices
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A festive pastry traditionally enjoyed during Mardi Gras, symbolizing joy and celebration.


Ingredients

  • Dough Ingredients: 1 cup Whole milk, 1/2 cup Granulated sugar, 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, 1 packet Active dry yeast, 4 large Eggs, 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon Salt, 4-5 cups All-purpose flour
  • Filling Ingredients: 1 cup Brown sugar, 1 tablespoon Ground cinnamon, 1/2 cup Chopped pecans, 1/2 cup Raisins, 1/2 cup Unsalted butter
  • Icing Ingredients: 2 cups Powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons Milk, 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
  • Decoration: Colored sugars (Purple, green, gold)


Instructions

  1. Heat the milk in a saucepan until warm, then stir in sugar and melted butter until dissolved. Sprinkle yeast over the mixture and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Add yeast mixture and mix well. Gradually add 4 cups flour until a soft dough forms, adding more flour if sticky.
  3. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1-2 hours until doubled.
  4. Prepare filling by mixing brown sugar, cinnamon, chopped pecans, raisins, and softened butter until combined.
  5. Punch down dough and roll into a 1/4 inch thick rectangle. Spread filling over dough, leaving a small border. Roll into a log and shape into a circle on greased baking sheet.
  6. Cover with towel and let rise 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Cool on wire rack.
  8. Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for icing. Drizzle over cooled cake and sprinkle colored sugars.
  9. Slice and serve, enjoying the festive spirit of Mardi Gras!

Notes

  • King Cake is a symbol of joy and community, traditionally enjoyed during Mardi Gras celebrations.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Bake
  • Cuisine: American