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Authentic New Orleans Style King Cake with Cinnamon Swirl

Close-up of a slice of cinnamon swirl king cake showing the rich interior and purple, green, and gold sprinkles.
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Bake a traditional, soft brioche King Cake perfect for Mardi Gras. This recipe features a rich cinnamon swirl filling and a simple, festive glaze.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • ½ cup granulated sugar, divided
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for dough)
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
  • ¾ cup packed light brown sugar (for filling)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for filling)
  • ½ cup cream cheese, softened (optional filling)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons milk or cream (for glaze)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
  • Purple, green, and gold sanding sugar (for decoration)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar. Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Prepare the dough: Add the remaining granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, salt, cinnamon, and half of the flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  4. Make the filling: While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth. If using cream cheese, beat it until smooth separately.
  5. Shape the cake: Punch down the risen dough. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on one long side. If using, spread the cream cheese mixture over the cinnamon layer.
  6. Roll and form the ring: Starting from the long side opposite the border, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam closed. Gently curve the log into a circle, overlapping the ends slightly. Tuck the ends together firmly to seal the ring.
  7. Second rise: Place the ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely and let rise again in a warm spot for 30 to 45 minutes, or until puffy.
  8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the King Cake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.
  9. Prepare the glaze and decorate: Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake. Immediately sprinkle with purple, green, and gold sanding sugar while the glaze is still wet.

Notes

  • For the softest brioche texture, ensure your milk and eggs are at room temperature before mixing.
  • If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of milk used in the glaze mixture.
  • The traditional colors represent Justice (purple), Faith (green), and Power (gold).

Nutrition

Find it online: https://daisyrecipe.com/king-cake-recipe-authentic-new-orleans-style/