King’s Cake
The King’s Cake is a festive classic—golden, rich, and joyfully decorated—that brings Mardi Gras spirit to any table. More than a dessert, it’s a tradition. In many homes, a tiny plastic baby is tucked inside; whoever finds it in their slice is crowned “king for the day,” turning every serving into a bit of playful celebration.
This version layers a buttery, moist crumb with mixed dried fruit and nuts for depth and chew in every bite. Below you’ll find the full ingredients and clear, reliable steps to bake your own at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Unique flavor: A tender, buttery base packed with fruit and nuts makes each slice feel special.
Beloved tradition: Synonymous with Mardi Gras and carnival season in the U.S.
Lovely texture: Soft crumb + chewy fruit + crunchy nuts.
Party-perfect: Ideal for Mardi Gras or any festive gathering.
Beginner-friendly: Straightforward method with simple steps.
Tradition & safety note: If you’d like to include the plastic baby, insert it after baking and full cooling for food safety. Let guests know it’s inside before serving.
Ingredients
2 cups mixed dried fruit (e.g., raisins, apricots, cherries)
1 cup mixed nuts (e.g., walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts)
1 cup sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp salt
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
Cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating after each; mix in the vanilla.
Whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl.
Combine: Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
Fold in the mixed dried fruit and nuts until evenly distributed.
Fill the pan with batter and smooth the top.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a rack to cool completely.
Finish with a generous dusting of powdered sugar.
If using the plastic baby, insert it now into the underside of the cooled cake.
How to Serve King’s Cake
Slice generously and serve with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
Pairings: Fresh fruit, lightly sweetened whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Festive finish: Top with colored icing or sanding sugar in Mardi Gras colors—purple, green, and gold.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerator: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Wrap slices in plastic, then foil; freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm briefly in the microwave.
Shelf life: About 1 week chilled; 3 months frozen. Always check for spoilage before serving.
Tips for Perfect King’s Cake
Room-temp butter creams best and traps air for a tender crumb.
Don’t overmix once the flour goes in—mix just until combined.
Citrus lift: Add a little orange or lemon zest to the batter for brightness.
Accurate measuring: Level off your flour so the cake stays moist.
Variations
Warm spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg (or a tiny pinch of cayenne for gentle heat).
Kid-friendly: Fold in mini chocolate chips with the dried fruit.
Budget: Use whatever fruit and nut combo you have on hand.
Healthier: Swap ½ the flour for whole wheat and reduce the sugar slightly.
Seasonal twist: Pumpkin spice in fall or a touch of peppermint extract in winter.
FAQs
What is the history of King’s Cake?
It traces back to Epiphany traditions and later became a Mardi Gras icon especially in New Orleans celebrating the lead-up to Lent.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Bake 1–2 days in advance and store airtight. Dust with fresh powdered sugar before serving.
How should I decorate it?
Traditionally with purple, green, and gold icing or colored sugars. Keep it simple or go bold your choice.
Can I change the fruit and nut mix?
Absolutely just keep the same total amounts so the texture stays balanced.
Final Thoughts
Baking a King’s Cake at home is an easy, festive way to bring people together. With a moist crumb, pops of fruit and nuts, and a playful tradition tucked inside, it’s a dessert that turns any gathering into a celebration. Enjoy—and start your own annual King’s Cake ritual!