Description
Bring the spirit of Mardi Gras to your home with this Easy New Orleans Style King Cake. Soft, sweet, and filled with cinnamon goodness, this no-yeast version cuts down on the prep time without compromising on flavor. Decorated in vibrant Mardi Gras colors, this cake is a festive treat that’s perfect for celebrating the season with family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 packet active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free version)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or vegan butter for a dairy-free version)
2 large eggs
For the Filling:
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Icing:
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Purple, green, and gold sprinkles or colored sugars (for decoration)
Optional:
A small plastic baby (traditionally placed inside the cake for fun!)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. In a separate bowl, combine milk, butter, and eggs. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.Roll Out the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.Add the Filling:
Brush the dough with melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture evenly over the surface.Shape and Seal:
Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, then form it into a ring shape. Pinch the ends together to seal.Bake:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the ring on a greased baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool slightly.Make the Icing:
In a small bowl, mix together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to form a smooth icing. Drizzle over the cooled cake.Decorate:
Sprinkle purple, green, and gold colored sugars or sprinkles over the icing to create the signature Mardi Gras look.
Notes
For a creamier, richer King Cake, try adding a cream cheese filling. Mix together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to create a filling that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon dough.
This no-yeast version is perfect for beginners or anyone who’s short on time but still wants to enjoy a homemade King Cake!
If you’re making the cake ahead of time, wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to two months. Just be sure to decorate it after thawing.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20-25 mins