why make this recipe
This Mardi Gras King Cake with Cinnamon Filling brings bright color and warm cinnamon to your table. It is fun to share at parties. The sweet dough and soft cinnamon layer please many people.
introduction
This cake mixes a soft, slightly sweet dough with a cinnamon filling. It looks festive with purple, green, and gold icing. For another simple loaf to try on a slow morning, see banana bread with pancake mix which is easy and tasty.
how to make Mardi Gras King Cake with Cinnamon Filling
Follow the steps below. The dough needs time to rise, so plan about 3 hours from start to finish.
Ingredients :
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 4½ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
Directions :
- Warm the milk, dissolve yeast with sugar, and let sit until frothy.
- Mix in melted butter, eggs, and gradually add flour until combined. Knead until smooth.
- Allow dough to rise in a greased bowl until doubled (about 1-2 hours).
- Roll out dough, spread softened butter, and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Roll into a log shape and place on a baking sheet; let rise again for 30 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly, then drizzle with icing and decorate.
If you like detailed cake ideas, you can also learn from a full cake guide such as the cherry chip cake guide for more baking tips.
how to serve Mardi Gras King Cake with Cinnamon Filling
Slice the cake and serve warm or at room temperature. Offer coffee or milk with it. Decorate with green, purple, and gold sugar for a festive look.
how to store Mardi Gras King Cake with Cinnamon Filling
Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keep at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze sliced pieces up to 1 month; thaw at room temperature before serving.
tips to make Mardi Gras King Cake with Cinnamon Filling
- Use warm milk (not hot) to help the yeast wake up.
- Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. This gives a soft crumb.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot.
- For even filling, spread butter thinly and press the cinnamon-sugar gently into the dough.
For a cool dessert idea to try another time, check this labubu ice cream cake without milk.
variation (if any)
- Add chopped pecans or raisins to the cinnamon layer for texture.
- Use cream cheese in the icing for a tangy finish.
- Make mini king cakes by dividing dough into smaller rolls and baking shorter.
FAQs
Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes. Use a bit less instant yeast and mix it directly into the flour.
Q: Can I make the dough the night before?
A: Yes. After the first rise, cover and refrigerate dough overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Q: How do I get bright Mardi Gras colors?
A: Use gel food coloring in the icing. Apply green, purple, and gold sugar in stripes after glazing.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes. Substitute plant milk and dairy-free butter for the milk and butter.
Q: How do I keep the cake soft?
A: Do not overbake. Store in an airtight container once cooled to keep it moist.
Mardi Gras King Cake with Cinnamon Filling
Ingredients
Method
- Warm the milk, dissolve yeast with sugar, and let sit until frothy.
- Mix in melted butter and eggs, then gradually add flour until combined.
- Knead the dough until smooth.
- Allow dough to rise in a greased bowl until doubled, about 1-2 hours.
- Roll out the dough, spread softened butter, and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Roll the dough into a log shape and place on a baking sheet; let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly, then drizzle with icing and decorate.