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The Best Homemade King Cake

The Best Homemade King Cake

The Best Homemade King Cake is a festive and delicious sweet bread perfect for Mardi Gras celebrations.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Additional Rising Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
  • 1 cup milk warmed to about 110°F
  • 1/2 cup butter softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans optional
Icing
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk or cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • rolling pin
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, yeast, cinnamon, and salt.
  2. In another bowl, mix warmed milk, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
  3. Gradually add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, then place in a greased bowl and cover. Let rise until doubled in size.
  5. Roll dough into a rectangular shape and spread with brown sugar and chopped pecans (if using).
  6. Roll the dough tightly into a log and form into a circle, sealing the ends.
  7. Place on a greased baking sheet and let rise again until doubled.
  8. Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
  9. Allow to cool slightly, then drizzle with icing made from powdered sugar and milk or cream.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 4gFat: 10g

Notes

Feel free to customize your king cake by adding fillings like chocolate chips or dried fruits. Enjoy baked leftovers by reheating slightly in the microwave.

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