Description
Indulge in the classic taste of Traditional King Cake (Brioche Style) – a homemade Mardi Gras delight that’s ready in just 45 minutes! This rich, buttery brioche-style cake is perfect for sharing with friends and family during the festive Carnival season.
Ingredients
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
– Purple, green, and gold sanding sugars for decorating
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
2. Add the warm milk, eggs, butter, and vanilla. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 24 inches long.
6. Braid the three ropes together, pinching the ends to seal. Form the braided dough into a ring and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
8. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
9. Brush the dough with the egg wash and sprinkle with the colored sanding sugars.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
11. Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For an extra special touch, you can hide a small plastic baby doll or bean inside the cake before baking. Whoever gets the slice with the hidden treasure is said to have good luck for the coming year.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Pies & Pastries
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American