Easy King Cake Recipe

Why You’ll Love Easy King Cake Recipe

• Soft, tender dough with rich flavor from sour cream and butter

• Beautiful braided presentation that looks impressive but is simple to create

• Sweet cinnamon filling swirled through every slice

• Creamy lemon-kissed glaze that perfectly balances the sweetness

• Perfect for Mardi Gras celebrations, brunches, or special gatherings

• Feeds a crowd with 12 generous servings

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ¼ oz active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoon OR 1 packet)

• ¼ cup warm water (100° to 110°F)

• ½ tablespoon granulated sugar

• 8 oz full fat sour cream

• 2 tablespoon granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoon unsalted butter

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

• 3 to 3 ½ cups bread flour (all purpose can also be used)

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 3 cups powdered sugar

• 3 tablespoon cream cheese, softened (butter can also be used)

• 2 to 4 tablespoon milk

• 2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

• Purple, green and gold sprinkles to decorate

Directions

Activate the yeast by combining active dry yeast, warm water, and a pinch of sugar in a small measuring cup. Let it sit until foamy. Meanwhile, gently warm the sour cream, butter, and sugar until the butter melts. Cool the mixture to 100–110°F.

In a stand mixer bowl fitted with a dough hook, combine the sour cream mixture, activated yeast, egg, and half of the flour. Mix until shaggy, then gradually add remaining flour until a dough forms.

Knead on low speed for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should pull away from the bowl and feel slightly tacky.

Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size.

Divide the dough in half. Roll each portion into a 16 x 8–9 inch rectangle.

Spread softened butter over each rectangle, leaving a 1-inch border. Mix cinnamon and sugar together and sprinkle evenly over the butter.

Roll each rectangle tightly into logs and pinch the seams closed.

Place both logs seam-side down, pinch one end together, and twist them into a braid. Form into a ring and seal the ends securely.

Cover loosely and let rise again for 20–30 minutes until puffed.

Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 25–30 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Allow to cool completely.

Whisk powdered sugar, cream cheese, lemon juice, vanilla, and enough milk to create a smooth, pourable glaze.

Pour glaze over the cooled cake and immediately decorate with purple, green, and gold sprinkles in alternating sections.

Slice and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 slices

Prep time: 30 minutes
First rise: 1 hour
Second rise: 20–30 minutes
Bake time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

• Add a cream cheese filling layer for extra richness.

• Incorporate chopped pecans into the cinnamon filling for crunch.

• Swap the lemon juice in the glaze for orange juice for a citrus twist.

• Hide a small plastic baby inside after baking for a traditional Mardi Gras surprise.

• Add colored sugar directly into the dough for a fun interior swirl.

Storage/Reheating

Store the King Cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore softness. If reheating a larger portion, loosely cover with foil and warm in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes.

The unglazed cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.

FAQs

What is King Cake traditionally used for?

King Cake is traditionally served during Mardi Gras season, beginning on Epiphany and ending on Fat Tuesday.

Can I make this dough by hand?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand for about 10–12 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, all-purpose flour works well, though bread flour gives slightly more chew and structure.

Why didn’t my dough rise?

The yeast may have been inactive or the liquid may have been too hot or too cold.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise overnight and shape it the next day.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

The top should be lightly golden and the internal temperature should reach about 190°F.

Can I skip the cream cheese in the glaze?

Yes, you can substitute softened butter or make a simple powdered sugar and milk glaze.

What do the purple, green, and gold colors represent?

Purple symbolizes justice, green represents faith, and gold signifies power.

Can I add fruit filling instead of cinnamon?

Yes, fruit fillings such as raspberry or apple can be used as alternatives.

Is King Cake supposed to be very sweet?

It is sweet but balanced by the soft bread and tangy glaze, making it rich without being overwhelming.

Conclusion

This Easy King Cake Recipe captures the joy and color of Mardi Gras in every slice. With its soft, cinnamon-filled layers and vibrant glaze, it’s a festive dessert that brings people together. Whether you’re celebrating the season or simply craving a special homemade treat, this King Cake is guaranteed to impress and delight.

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