New Orleans King Cake

Step 1

Whisk 3.5 cups flour, 0.5 cup sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl.

Step 2

Make a well in the center. Add 4 tbsp melted butter, 2 eggs, and 0.5 cup warm water.

Step 3

Stir until shaggy dough forms, then knead by hand 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise 60 minutes until doubled.

Step 5

Punch down dough and roll into a 16×12-inch rectangle on a floured surface.

Step 6

Spread a thin layer of melted butter over dough, then sprinkle 2 tsp cinnamon mixed with 3 tbsp sugar.

Step 7

Roll dough tightly from the long side into a rope, then form into a ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 8

Seal the ends, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise 30 minutes until puffy.

Step 9

Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Step 10

Cool 10 minutes, then whisk 1.5 cups confectioners sugar with 3 tbsp water until pourable.

Step 11

Drizzle icing over warm cake. Top with purple, green, and gold decorating sugar in traditional Mardi Gras colors.