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Homemade Mardi Gras King Cake

Irresistible Homemade Mardi Gras King Cake with Easy Gluten-Free Option

Homemade Mardi Gras King Cake is a vibrant centerpiece for celebrations and features a sweet cinnamon filling.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 3.5 cups All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour.
  • 2.25 teaspoons Rapid Rise Yeast 1 package.
  • 1 cup Milk Warm (120º to 130º); non-dairy can be used.
  • 0.25 cups Sugar Brown sugar can be used for deeper flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 2 pieces Eggs Can use flax eggs for a vegan option.
  • 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Cubed and softened; margarine can be a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Leave out if desired.
For the Cinnamon Filling
  • 0.67 cups Brown Sugar Packed; white sugar can be substituted.
  • 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon Other spices can be added.
For the Icing
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar Can substitute with coconut sugar.
  • 1 tablespoon Milk Use any milk alternative.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Vanilla Enhances flavor.

Equipment

  • stand mixer
  • Small saucepan
  • baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • medium bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Dough: In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk, sugar, and salt until dissolved and warm (120º to 130º). In a stand mixer, combine 3 cups of flour with rapid rise yeast. Add the warm milk mixture and eggs, mixing until incorporated.
  2. First Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, covering it with a kitchen towel. Allow dough to rise until it doubles in size (about 1 to 1.5 hours).
  3. Make Filling: In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and softened butter until crumbly.
  4. Shape Dough: Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle (10x15 inches), spread cinnamon filling, roll it tightly into a log, and seal the edges.
  5. Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough with a towel and let it rise for about 45 minutes.
  6. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown, checking internal temperature (180°F or 82°C).
  7. Cool & Decorate: Allow cooling on wire rack, hide a plastic baby inside, top with icing, and sprinkle colored sugars.
  8. Storage: Wrap in plastic wrap for freshness up to 3 days at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This recipe is perfect for celebrations and offers a gluten-free option for those with dietary restrictions.

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