Get ready to transport yourself straight to the vibrant streets of New Orleans with this mouthwatering Mardi Gras King Cake with Pecan Praline! This isn't just a dessert—it's a celebration of flavor, tradition, and pure culinary magic that will have your guests begging for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious foodie, this recipe promises to bring the festive spirit of Carnival right into your kitchen, complete with a delectable pecan praline filling that'll make your taste buds dance!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
- Colored sugars for decoration
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk with active dry yeast and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Add melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Whisk thoroughly until well combined and smooth.
- Gradually fold in all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until elastic and smooth.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- While dough rises, prepare pecan praline filling by combining chopped pecans, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt in a separate bowl.
- Punch down risen dough and roll out into a large rectangular shape on a floured surface, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Sprinkle pecan praline mixture evenly across the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
- Roll the dough tightly into a long cylinder, pinching seams to seal, then form into a circular ring shape on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover cake and let rise again for 30 minutes in a warm location. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) during this time.
- Bake the king cake for 22-25 minutes until golden brown. Remove and let cool completely on a wire rack.
- Decorate by dusting with confectioners' sugar and sprinkling with traditional Mardi Gras colored sugars (purple, green, and gold).
- Optional: Hide a small plastic baby figurine inside the cake for traditional festive fun!
Tips
- Yeast is Your Friend: Ensure your milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- Rising to the Occasion: Find a warm, draft-free spot for your dough to rise—near a preheated oven works perfectly.
- Praline Precision: Toast your pecans lightly before mixing for an extra depth of flavor.
- Decorating Like a Pro: Use a sifter for even confectioners' sugar distribution and create stunning color patterns with the Mardi Gras sugars.
- Traditional Touch: If including the hidden baby figurine, make sure it's food-safe and inform your guests before serving!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 65mg
