Description
Indulge in the buttery, brioche-style goodness of a homemade traditional king cake, a beloved Mardi Gras dessert. This easy-to-make recipe features a soft, pillowy dough filled with a creamy custard and decorated with vibrant purple, green, and gold icing, capturing the festive spirit of the carnival season.
Ingredients
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1 cup creamy custard or pastry cream
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Create a well in the center and add the softened butter, eggs, and warm milk.
2. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick.
6. Spread the creamy custard or pastry cream evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
7. Roll the dough up tightly, starting from the long side, to form a cylinder.
8. Carefully transfer the cylinder to a greased baking sheet, forming it into a ring. Pinch the ends together to seal.
9. Cover the ring with a damp cloth and let it rise for 30 minutes.
10. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
11. Bake the king cake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
12. Allow the cake to cool completely, then decorate with vibrant purple, green, and gold icing.
Notes
For a richer flavor, you can substitute the milk with an equal amount of heavy cream. Feel free to experiment with different filling options, such as cream cheese, fruit preserves, or chocolate.
- Prep Time: 90
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American