King Cake is a traditional French dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. The cake is shaped like a crown and is associated with the celebration of Epiphany, which marks the visit of the Three Wise Men to the baby Jesus. The cake is usually decorated with colored sugars, and a small plastic figurine is hidden inside. According to tradition, whoever finds the figurine in their slice of cake is said to have good luck!
King Cake has a long and interesting history. It is believed to have originated in 12th century France, where it was a popular treat during the celebration of Carnival. The cake was made in the shape of a circular wreath to represent the circle of life, and was decorated in colors to represent the joy of the season. Over the years, the tradition of King Cake spread to other countries, including Spain, Mexico, and the United States.
In the United States, King Cake is most popularly associated with Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans. There, the cake is usually made with a sweet dough that’s filled with cinnamon, sugar, and raisins, and is topped with a variety of colors and flavors. It’s also traditional to hide a small plastic baby in the cake, which symbolizes the baby Jesus. Whoever finds the baby in their slice of cake is said to have good luck!
King Cake is a delicious dessert that’s sure to be a hit at any celebration. To make your own King Cake at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of yeast
• 1/2 cup of warm water
• 4 tablespoons of melted butter
• 1/4 cup of raisins
• 1/4 cup of chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1/4 cup of colored sugar
• 1/4 cup of icing sugar
You’ll also need the following kitchen equipment:
• A large bowl
• A rolling pin
• A pastry brush
• A baking sheet
• A small bowl
• A whisk
• A knife
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Add the warm water and melted butter, and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then cover and let it rise for 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface, and shape it into a large circle.
- Place the dough onto a baking sheet and brush it with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the raisins, pecans, and cinnamon over the dough.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the cake is baking, mix together the colored sugar and icing sugar in a small bowl.
- Once the cake is baked, sprinkle the sugar mixture over the top.
- Let the cake cool before serving.
King Cake is best served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream. It also pairs nicely with coffee, tea, and champagne. Enjoy!
How about a sweet cocktail to pair with your King Cake? Test out this Jungle Bird Cocktail recipe.