Ready to crown your table with something spectacular? Whether you’re celebrating Mardi Gras or just craving a slice of New Orleans tradition, our roundup of 18 Delicious King Cake Recipes is your golden ticket. From classic twists to innovative flavors, there’s a regal treat here for every occasion. So, preheat your ovens and let’s bake some royalty-worthy delights that’ll have everyone shouting, ‘Laissez les bons temps rouler!’
Traditional New Orleans King Cake
Bring a taste of Mardi Gras to your kitchen with this Traditional New Orleans King Cake, a festive treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Purple, green, and gold sanding sugars for decorating
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup warm milk, yeast, and 1 tbsp of the granulated sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Stir in the remaining granulated sugar, melted butter, egg yolks, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Gradually add flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes, then place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Roll the dough into a 30-inch rope, form into a circle on a baking sheet, and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Bake for 25 minutes until golden. Cool slightly.
- Mix powdered sugar, 1 tbsp milk, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract for the glaze. Drizzle over the cake and immediately sprinkle with colored sugars.
The secret to this King Cake’s irresistible appeal lies in its soft, sweet dough and the vibrant crunch of colored sugars, making it a centerpiece at any celebration.
Tip: Hide a small plastic baby inside the cake after baking for a traditional surprise—whoever finds it hosts the next party!
Easy Homemade King Cake
Bring a taste of Mardi Gras to your kitchen with this Easy Homemade King Cake, a festive treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Purple, green, and gold sanding sugars for decoration
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup warm milk, 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Stir in 4 tbsp melted butter, 2 large eggs, and 1 tsp salt. Gradually add 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes, then place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Roll the dough into a 16×10-inch rectangle, then roll up from the long side to form a log. Shape into a ring on a baking sheet, pinching the ends to seal. Let rise for 30 minutes.
- Bake for 25 minutes until golden. Cool slightly.
- Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tbsp milk, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the warm cake and immediately sprinkle with purple, green, and gold sanding sugars.
The secret to this King Cake’s irresistible allure? The warm spices and sweet glaze create a perfect balance, making every slice a celebration.
Tip: For an authentic touch, hide a small plastic baby inside the cake before serving—whoever finds it gets to host the next party!
Gluten-Free King Cake
Celebrate Mardi Gras with a gluten-free twist on the classic King Cake, perfect for sharing with friends and family who are gluten-sensitive or just love a good dessert!
Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp xanthan gum
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- Purple, green, and gold sanding sugars for decorating
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup almond flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp xanthan gum.
- Add 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp almond extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Shape the dough into a ring on the prepared baking sheet, pressing the ends together to seal.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool slightly before decorating with purple, green, and gold sanding sugars to mimic the traditional Mardi Gras colors.
This gluten-free King Cake surprises with its moist texture and rich flavor, proving that dietary restrictions don’t mean missing out on festive traditions.
Tip: For an extra festive touch, hide a small, food-safe trinket inside the cake before baking, just like the traditional version!
Vegan King Cake
Bring a taste of Mardi Gras to your kitchen with this vibrant Vegan King Cake, a festive treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm almond milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water (flax egg)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup vegan cream cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Purple, green, and gold sanding sugars for decorating
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 packet active dry yeast, and 1 tsp salt. Add 3/4 cup warm almond milk, 1/4 cup melted coconut oil, flax egg, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Roll the dough into a 10×20-inch rectangle. Spread 1/2 cup vegan cream cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Roll up tightly from the long side, sealing the edge.
- Shape into a ring on a baking sheet, sealing the ends. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Bake for 25 minutes until golden. Cool slightly, then drizzle with a mix of 1/4 cup powdered sugar and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Decorate with purple, green, and gold sanding sugars.
This Vegan King Cake stands out with its fluffy texture and tangy cream cheese filling, making it a showstopper at any celebration.
Tip: For an extra festive touch, hide a small trinket inside the cake before baking, following the traditional King Cake custom.
Chocolate Filled King Cake
This Chocolate Filled King Cake is a showstopper, blending the traditional Mardi Gras treat with a rich, gooey chocolate center that’s irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Purple, green, and gold sprinkles
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup warm milk, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 packet active dry yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, and 3 large eggs to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes, then place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
- Roll the dough into a 16×10-inch rectangle. Sprinkle 1 cup chocolate chips evenly over the surface, then roll tightly from the long side.
- Shape the roll into a circle on a baking sheet, pinching the ends together. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake the cake for 25 minutes until golden.
- Mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon milk to make a glaze. Drizzle over the warm cake and decorate with purple, green, and gold sprinkles.
The magic of this King Cake lies in the surprise chocolate filling, turning every slice into a decadent discovery.
Tip: For an extra festive touch, hide a small plastic baby inside the cake before baking—whoever finds it hosts the next party!
Cream Cheese Stuffed King Cake
Get ready to impress with this Cream Cheese Stuffed King Cake, a twist on the Mardi Gras classic that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients
- 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp milk
- Purple, green, and gold sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the crescent dough and separate into triangles. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet in a circle, overlapping the wide ends slightly to form a ring.
- In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the wide ends of the dough triangles.
- Fold the pointed ends of the triangles over the filling, tucking them under the wide ends to seal.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
- Let the cake cool slightly, then whisk together the powdered sugar and milk to make a glaze. Drizzle over the warm cake and decorate with sprinkles.
The cream cheese filling adds a rich, tangy contrast to the sweet, flaky dough, making every bite a delightful surprise.
Tip: For an extra festive touch, hide a small plastic baby or bean inside the cake before baking—whoever finds it gets to be king or queen for the day!
Mini King Cakes for Parties
These Mini King Cakes are the perfect party treat, bringing the festive spirit of Mardi Gras to your table in bite-sized form.
Ingredients
- 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated cinnamon roll dough
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Purple, green, and gold sanding sugars
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Separate the cinnamon roll dough into individual rolls. Cut each roll into 3 equal pieces and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 tbsp milk, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the warm mini cakes.
- Immediately sprinkle with purple, green, and gold sanding sugars before the glaze sets.
The mini size makes these king cakes perfect for sharing, and the colorful sugars add a festive crunch that’s irresistible.
Tip: For an extra touch, hide a small plastic baby or bean in one of the mini cakes for a traditional King Cake surprise!
King Cake with Pecan Praline Filling
Bring a taste of Mardi Gras to your kitchen with this indulgent King Cake, swirled with a rich pecan praline filling and topped with colorful sprinkles.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Colored sprinkles (purple, green, and gold)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Mix in flour, salt, melted butter, and egg yolks until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes, then let rise in a greased bowl for 1 hour.
- For the filling, combine brown sugar, pecans, heavy cream, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Roll dough into a 16×10-inch rectangle. Spread filling evenly, then roll tightly from the long side. Shape into a ring on a baking sheet, sealing the ends.
- Brush with beaten egg and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes until golden. Cool slightly, then decorate with colored sprinkles.
The magic of this King Cake lies in the contrast between the tender, buttery dough and the crunchy, caramel-like pecan praline filling—a festive treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Tip: For an extra festive touch, hide a small plastic baby inside the cake before baking, a traditional Mardi Gras surprise!
Red Velvet King Cake
This Red Velvet King Cake is a show-stopping twist on the Mardi Gras classic, blending the rich flavors of red velvet with the festive tradition of a king cake.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp white vinegar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup purple, green, and gold sanding sugars for decorating
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp salt, and 1 packet active dry yeast.
- Add 1/2 cup warmed whole milk, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, 1 tbsp cocoa powder, 1 tbsp red food coloring, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp white vinegar. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes, then place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Roll the dough into a 20×12-inch rectangle. Spread 8 oz softened cream cheese and sprinkle 1/4 cup powdered sugar over the dough. Roll tightly from the long side, then form into a circle on a baking sheet. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake the cake for 25-30 minutes until golden. Let cool slightly, then decorate with 1 cup purple, green, and gold sanding sugars.
The cream cheese filling adds a creamy contrast to the tender red velvet dough, making each slice irresistibly rich. Perfect for Mardi Gras celebrations or whenever you’re craving something decadently different.
Tip: For an extra festive touch, hide a small plastic baby or bean inside the cake before baking—whoever finds it hosts the next party!
King Cake French Toast
Transform your Mardi Gras leftovers into a decadent breakfast with this King Cake French Toast, a festive twist on a morning classic.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of day-old King Cake, about 1 inch thick
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Powdered sugar and purple, green, and gold sprinkles for garnish
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tbsp of butter, letting it melt and coat the pan.
- Dip each slice of King Cake into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for about 30 seconds per side.
- Place the soaked slices in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Repeat with the remaining slices, adding the remaining 1 tbsp of butter to the skillet as needed.
- Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar and decorated with Mardi Gras-colored sprinkles.
The creamy custard soaks into the rich, brioche-like King Cake, creating a French toast that’s irresistibly fluffy inside with a perfectly crisp exterior.
Tip: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of milk before adding the sprinkles.
King Cake Bread Pudding
Transform your leftover King Cake into a decadent bread pudding that’s bursting with the festive flavors of Mardi Gras. It’s a delightful twist on a classic dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed King Cake (about 1/2 a medium cake)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for garnish)
- Purple, green, and gold sprinkles (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with butter.
- Spread the cubed King Cake evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
- Pour the milk mixture over the King Cake, pressing down lightly to ensure all pieces are soaked. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar and decorate with purple, green, and gold sprinkles before serving.
The combination of creamy custard and spiced King Cake creates a bread pudding that’s irresistibly moist and flavorful, with a festive crunch from the sprinkles.
Tip: For an extra indulgent touch, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
King Cake Cupcakes
Bring the festive spirit of Mardi Gras to your kitchen with these King Cake Cupcakes, a delightful twist on the traditional dessert that’s perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Purple, green, and gold sanding sugars for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt.
- In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the flour mixture and 1/2 cup whole milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Stir in 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg.
- Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before decorating with purple, green, and gold sanding sugars to mimic the traditional King Cake colors.
These King Cake Cupcakes capture the essence of the classic with their spiced flavor and vibrant colors, making them a hit at any celebration.
Tip: For an extra surprise, hide a small plastic baby or a pecan half in one of the cupcakes before baking, following the King Cake tradition.
King Cake Cheesecake
Combine the festive spirit of Mardi Gras with the creamy delight of cheesecake in this King Cake Cheesecake recipe, a show-stopping dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Purple, green, and yellow sanding sugars for decorating
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour the filling over the crust. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the center is almost set. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Before serving, sprinkle the top with purple, green, and yellow sanding sugars in alternating sections to mimic the traditional King Cake colors.
The swirl of spices and the colorful topping make this cheesecake a vibrant centerpiece that captures the essence of Mardi Gras in every slice.
Tip: For an extra festive touch, hide a small plastic baby figurine under the cheesecake before adding the sugars—whoever finds it gets to host the next party!
King Cake Muffins
Bring a taste of Mardi Gras to your breakfast table with these festive King Cake Muffins, a simpler twist on the traditional dessert that’s perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 egg
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup purple, green, and gold sanding sugars
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg.
- In another bowl, beat 1 egg, then stir in 1 cup milk, 1/4 cup melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in 1/2 cup chopped pecans.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full. Sprinkle the tops with 1/4 cup purple, green, and gold sanding sugars.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
These muffins capture the essence of King Cake with their spiced flavor and colorful topping, making them a hit at any gathering.
Tip: For an extra festive touch, hide a small trinket or bean in one of the muffins before baking—whoever finds it gets to be ‘king’ or ‘queen’ for the day!
King Cake Pancakes
Start your Mardi Gras morning with these festive King Cake Pancakes, blending the beloved flavors of the traditional dessert into a fluffy, breakfast-ready treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Purple, green, and gold sanding sugars for garnish
- 1/2 cup cream cheese frosting
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg.
- In another bowl, mix 1 cup buttermilk, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until mixed (a few lumps are okay).
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup batter for each pancake, cooking until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Stack the pancakes, drizzle with 1/2 cup cream cheese frosting, and sprinkle with purple, green, and gold sanding sugars.
These pancakes capture the essence of King Cake with their spiced flavor and colorful toppings, making them a vibrant start to any day.
Tip: For an extra touch, hide a small plastic baby figurine in the pancake stack to keep with King Cake tradition—just be sure to warn your guests!
King Cake Doughnuts
Bring a taste of Mardi Gras to your kitchen with these festive King Cake Doughnuts, a delightful twist on the traditional holiday treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- Purple, green, and gold sanding sugars for decorating
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a doughnut pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg.
- In another bowl, beat 1 large egg, then stir in 3/4 cup whole milk, 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared doughnut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the doughnuts spring back when touched.
- Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the glaze, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tbsp milk until smooth. Dip each doughnut into the glaze, then sprinkle with purple, green, and gold sanding sugars.
These King Cake Doughnuts stand out with their soft, cakey texture and the vibrant colors of Mardi Gras, making them a hit at any celebration.
Tip: For an extra festive touch, hide a small plastic baby figurine in one of the doughnuts before serving, following the King Cake tradition.
King Cake Ice Cream
Bring the festive flavors of Mardi Gras to your dessert table with this creamy King Cake Ice Cream, a delightful twist on the traditional treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup purple, green, and gold sanding sugars
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 tsp salt until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Stir in 1 tbsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes.
- Once churned, fold in 1/2 cup purple, green, and gold sanding sugars and 1/2 cup chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
The swirl of colorful sugars and crunchy pecans in every bite makes this ice cream a showstopper, perfect for celebrating any occasion with a touch of New Orleans flair.
Tip: For an extra authentic touch, serve with a slice of king cake on the side.
King Cake Martini
Bring the festive spirit of Mardi Gras to your cocktail hour with this vibrant King Cake Martini, a boozy twist on the classic dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to drink.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup vanilla vodka
- 1/4 cup butterscotch schnapps
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp simple syrup
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- Purple, green, and gold sanding sugars for rimming
- Lemon wedge, for rimming
Instructions
- Begin by rimming your martini glass: rub the lemon wedge around the edge of the glass, then dip it into a mix of purple, green, and gold sanding sugars to coat.
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the vanilla vodka, butterscotch schnapps, heavy cream, simple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain the mixture into your prepared martini glass.
This King Cake Martini stands out with its creamy texture and the warm spices that mimic the flavors of traditional king cake, making it a festive pick for any celebration.
Tip: For an extra touch of authenticity, serve with a small plastic baby on the rim to honor the king cake tradition.
Conclusion
We hope this roundup of 18 delicious King Cake recipes inspires your next baking adventure! Whether you’re celebrating Mardi Gras or just craving something sweet, there’s a recipe here for every occasion. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin your must-bakes on Pinterest. Happy baking!