King Cake is a beloved Mardi Gras tradition that brings vibrant flavors and festive spirit to any celebration. We’ve taken this classic New Orleans treat and transformed it into a rich, comforting bread pudding that’s perfect for enjoying year-round. This King Cake Bread Pudding recipe combines the cinnamon swirl and colorful icing of the original cake with a creamy custard base for an irresistible dessert.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or indulge in a cozy treat, this recipe offers a delightful twist on a familiar favorite. It’s easy to make and packed with the warm spices and sweetness that make King Cake so special. Let’s dive into creating a dessert that honors tradition while adding a new layer of deliciousness to your table.
King Cake Bread Pudding Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 King Cake, cut into 1-inch cubes (reserve colorful icing for topping)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully blended and smooth.
- Assemble the pudding: Place the King Cake cubes into the prepared baking dish. If using, sprinkle the raisins or pecans evenly over the bread.
- Pour the custard mixture over the King Cake cubes. Press gently with a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure the bread absorbs the custard evenly. Let it sit for 10 minutes to soak.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top for added richness and to help create a golden crust.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. To test doneness, insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool the bread pudding slightly before adding the vibrant King Cake icing. Drizzle the reserved icing in festive stripes of purple, green, and gold for that unmistakable Mardi Gras flair.
Key Baking Details
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baking | 350°F | 45-50 mins | Custard should be set, topping golden |
| Soaking custard | Room temp | 10 mins | Ensures bread absorbs custard fully |
| Cooling before icing | Room temp | 15 mins | Prevents icing from melting and running |
“Transforming traditional King Cake into a sumptuous bread pudding unites the festive cinnamon swirl with creamy custard, delivering a dessert that is both comforting and celebratory.”
Let’s embrace the rich flavors and textures that make this King Cake Bread Pudding a standout treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect King Cake Bread Pudding, we gather rich, flavorful ingredients that capture the essence of the classic Mardi Gras treat while ensuring a creamy, satisfying finish.
For the Bread Pudding
- 1 large King Cake, cut into 1-inch cubes (approximately 8 cups)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (to grease the baking dish)
- Optional: 1 small plastic baby figurine (traditional for King Cake)
For the Custard Mixture
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large eggs | 4 | Beaten |
| Whole milk | 2 cups | Preferably whole milk for creaminess |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Adds richness |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup | Adjust to taste |
| Pure vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | Enhances aroma |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Signature King Cake spice |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds warm depth |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Balances sweetness |
For the Icing Drizzle
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted (for silky smooth texture)
- 3 tablespoons whole milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for flavor)
- Food coloring in purple, green, and gold (traditional King Cake colors)
Optional Toppings and Decorations
- Colored sanding sugar in purple, green, and gold (for vibrant festive sparkle)
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (for crunch)
- Fresh fruit slices (optional, for garnish)
- Additional cinnamon sprinkle (to enhance the warm spice profile)
The interplay of the sweet custard with the signature cinnamon swirl of the King Cake and the vibrant icing drizzle creates an irresistible fusion that celebrates tradition with every bite.
Equipment Needed
To create our delectable King Cake Bread Pudding, we need several essential tools that ensure every step—from soaking to baking—is executed flawlessly. Having the right equipment on hand streamlines the process and helps us achieve the perfect texture and vibrant presentation that defines this festive dessert.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Large Mixing Bowl
For combining the custard ingredients and soaking the King Cake pieces thoroughly.
- Whisk
To blend eggs, milk, cream, and spices smoothly for a lump-free custard base.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precise measurements are vital; these tools guarantee the perfect balance of flavors.
- 9×13-Inch Baking Dish
Ideal size for spreading the King Cake pieces evenly to bake through without crowding.
- Rubber Spatula
To gently fold the soaked bread ensuring custard is evenly absorbed without breaking the cake pieces.
- Fine Mesh Strainer
To strain the custard mixture if needed for an ultra-smooth texture.
- Oven Thermometer (optional)
To verify the correct baking temperature for evenly cooked custard custard texture.
- Cooling Rack
For letting the bread pudding cool after baking before applying the colorful King Cake icing drizzle.
- Small Mixing Bowl
For preparing the vibrant icing drizzle that tops the pudding.
Equipment Summary Table
| Equipment | Purpose | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Combine and soak King Cake and custard | Even custard distribution |
| Whisk | Blend custard ingredients | Smooth texture, no lumps |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Consistent flavor balance |
| 9×13-Inch Baking Dish | Bake pudding evenly | Prevents overcrowding for uniform cooking |
| Rubber Spatula | Fold soaked bread gently | Retains cake structure |
| Fine Mesh Strainer | Optional custard straining | Ultra-smooth custard |
| Oven Thermometer | Monitor oven temperature | Avoid under or overcooking |
| Cooling Rack | Cool pudding before icing | Prevents icing melt |
| Small Mixing Bowl | Prepare colorful icing drizzle | Easy handling and precise drizzling |
Using this equipment, we maintain control and consistency throughout the entire King Cake Bread Pudding preparation, ensuring each bite bursts with traditional flavors and creamy custard goodness.
Instructions
Let’s walk through the step-by-step process to transform King Cake into a luscious King Cake Bread Pudding that captures all the festive flavors and creamy textures.
Prep the King Cake Bread
- Slice the King Cake into 1-inch cubes, ensuring pieces have a good balance of cinnamon swirl and cake.
- Spread the cubes evenly on a baking sheet.
- Toast them in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes to firm up the bread and enhance flavor.
- Remove and let the cubes cool completely before using; this helps the bread absorb the custard without turning soggy.
Making the Custard Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk together the following:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Whole milk | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/2 teaspoon |
- Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- For an ultra-smooth custard, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
Assembling the Bread Pudding
- Place toasted King Cake cubes in a 9×13-inch baking dish evenly.
- Slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, pressing gently with a spatula to submerge as much bread as possible.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow the bread to soak up the custard fully.
Baking the Bread Pudding
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Remove plastic wrap from the dish.
- Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Check doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean or with just a slight custard residue.
- Let the bread pudding cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before icing.
Preparing the Icing Drizzle
- In a small bowl, whisk together:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup |
| Milk (whole preferred) | 2 tablespoons |
| Vanilla extract | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Food coloring (optional) | Several drops (purple, green, yellow) |
- Divide the icing into separate small bowls.
- Add food coloring to each bowl to create the classic Mardi Gras colors.
- Stir until the icing is smooth and slightly thick but pourable.
Finishing Touches and Decorating
- Drizzle the colorful icing generously over the warm King Cake Bread Pudding using a spoon or piping bag for precision.
- Optionally, sprinkle coarse sugar or chopped pecans for extra texture and festive crunch.
- Let the icing set for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Enjoy every festive bite of this rich and creamy King Cake Bread Pudding that perfectly marries tradition and indulgence.
Make-Ahead Tips
To ensure our King Cake Bread Pudding bursts with the perfect blend of flavors and textures, preparing some steps in advance can save us time and enhance the overall experience. Here are key make-ahead strategies to keep our dessert fresh and delicious:
Prepare the Bread Cubes Ahead
- Slice the King Cake into cubes and toast them as directed.
- Let the toasted cubes cool completely.
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
This allows the bread to slightly dry out, which helps it absorb the custard more evenly and prevents sogginess.
Custard Mixture Storage
- Whisk together the custard components (eggs, sugar, milk, cream, vanilla, and spices).
- Strain the custard for ultimate smoothness.
- Cover the custard bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before assembling.
Storing the custard ahead lets the flavors meld, boosting the richness of the custard soak.
Assembly and Soaking in Advance
We can assemble the pudding up to 6 hours ahead:
- Place the toasted cake cubes in the baking dish.
- Pour the chilled custard over the cubes and press gently to soak thoroughly.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
- Keep refrigerated until ready to bake.
This step allows the custard to fully penetrate the King Cake creating a creamier, more luscious final texture.
Baking and Serving Plan
- Bake the pudding fresh from cold to ensure even cooking.
- After baking, cool slightly before adding the colorful icing drizzle.
- For best results, add icing just before serving to maintain its vibrant look and smooth texture.
If needed, the baked pudding without icing can be stored, covered, in the fridge for up to 3 days.
| Step | Storage Duration | Storage Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toasted King Cake Cubes | 2 days | Airtight container | Room temperature |
| Custard Mixture | 24 hours | Covered bowl, refrigerated | Strain before refrigerating |
| Assembled Bread Pudding | 6 hours | Covered dish, refrigerated | Soak custard thoroughly |
| Baked Pudding (No Icing) | 3 days | Covered dish, refrigerated | Add icing fresh before serving |
“Make-ahead preparation is the key to a stress-free celebration and perfectly rich King Cake Bread Pudding every time.”
By planning ahead with these tips, we will maximize flavor infusion, save time on the day of serving, and deliver a festive dessert that highlights the traditional Mardi Gras spirit with every creamy bite.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our King Cake Bread Pudding experience, thoughtful serving ideas can enhance every bite with complementary textures and flavors. Here are our top serving suggestions that perfectly balance the richness and festive notes of this dessert:
- Serve Warm: For an indulgent treat, serve your bread pudding warm. The custard will be creamy and soft while the icing on top stays vibrant and slightly gooey, creating an irresistible contrast. Use a plate warmer if possible to keep it cozy during serving.
- Add a Dollop of Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an airy balance to the dense custard. Garnish with a small swirl or quenelle on each portion to introduce a fresh dairy contrast.
- Vanilla or Cinnamon Ice Cream: Pairing the bread pudding with a scoop of vanilla bean or cinnamon-spiced ice cream enhances the custard’s spicy and sweet profile, taking the dessert to another level of comfort and warmth.
- Fresh Fruit Accents: Brighten the dish with fresh fruits like sliced strawberries or mandarin orange segments. Their slight acidity and natural brightness cut through the rich layers.
- Sprinkle of Toasted Pecans or Walnuts: Adding a crunchy element like toasted nuts complements the soft texture and brings a roasted aroma typical of New Orleans style desserts.
- Drizzle of Caramel Sauce: For those who love extra decadence, warm caramel sauce over the top pairs beautifully with the cinnamon swirl inside the bread pudding.
Presentation Tips for Serving King Cake Bread Pudding
| Suggestion | Benefit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Warm Plate | Retains heat for cozy bites | Preheat plates in the oven for 5 minutes |
| Whipped Cream | Adds light creaminess | Use freshly whipped with a touch of sugar |
| Ice Cream Scoop | Enhances creaminess with cold contrast | Choose vanilla or cinnamon flavors |
| Fresh Fruit Garnish | Adds color and acid balance | Use seasonal fruits when possible |
| Toasted Nuts | Adds crunch and nutty aroma | Lightly toast before sprinkling |
| Caramel Drizzle | Adds sweetness and buttery notes | Warm before drizzling |
“Serving the King Cake Bread Pudding warm with whipped cream and toasted pecans brings out the full Mardi Gras spirit in every bite.”
For the ultimate presentation, drizzle the signature colorful icing just before serving to maintain its bright appearance and festive appeal. Carefully slice portions using a sharp knife and a rubber spatula to ensure neat servings that showcase its layers of cinnamon richness and custard creaminess.
By combining these serving touches, we transform this traditional recipe into a celebratory experience perfect for family gatherings or Mardi Gras festivities.
Storage Instructions
To keep our King Cake Bread Pudding fresh and flavorful while preserving its creamy texture and vibrant icing, follow these storage guidelines carefully.
Cooling Before Storage
Allow the bread pudding to cool completely at room temperature for about 1 to 2 hours. This prevents condensation inside the storage container, which can make the pudding soggy and degrade the icing’s bright colors.
Refrigeration
Place the cooled King Cake Bread Pudding in an airtight container or tightly cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate to maintain freshness and food safety.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Airtight container | Up to 3-4 days | Keeps texture consistent |
| Baking dish covered | Up to 2 days | Use plastic wrap or foil tightly |
Tip: For the best experience, add the colorful icing drizzle right before serving after refrigeration to preserve its vibrant appearance and prevent softening.
Freezing for Longer Storage
To store for a longer time, slice the bread pudding into individual portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps the pudding moist without freezer burn.
| Freezing Duration | Thawing Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1 month | Overnight in fridge | Allow icing to be added fresh |
Reheating Instructions
Reheat refrigerated or thawed portions in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until warm through. Avoid microwaving as it can unevenly heat and alter the pudding’s texture.
“Warming gently helps restore the custard’s creamy richness and mildly toasts the edges enhancing the authentic King Cake aroma.”
Final Serving Note
For the ultimate King Cake Bread Pudding experience, drizzle the icing and add optional toppings such as coarse sugar or chopped pecans just before serving. This ensures the dessert retains its festive look and delightful crunch.
By following these Storage Instructions, we guarantee every bite of our King Cake Bread Pudding remains as delicious and celebratory as when first made.
Conclusion
King Cake Bread Pudding brings a fresh and indulgent spin to a beloved Mardi Gras classic. Its creamy custard and vibrant icing make every bite a celebration of rich flavors and festive tradition.
With simple steps and thoughtful preparation, this dessert fits perfectly into any occasion, offering both comfort and a touch of elegance. We’re excited for you to try it and share the joy it brings to your table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is King Cake Bread Pudding?
King Cake Bread Pudding is a creative twist on the traditional Mardi Gras King Cake, combining its cinnamon swirl and colorful icing with a creamy custard base to create a warm, rich dessert.
What ingredients are needed for King Cake Bread Pudding?
You’ll need King Cake, eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, spices, powdered sugar, food coloring for the icing, and optional toppings like nuts or coarse sugar.
How do I prepare the King Cake for the pudding?
Slice the King Cake into cubes and toast them briefly to enhance flavor before soaking them in the custard mixture.
What equipment is necessary for making this dessert?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, a 9×13-inch baking dish, rubber spatula, fine mesh strainer, oven thermometer, cooling rack, and a small bowl for icing.
Can I make the bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the toasted bread cubes and custard mixture in advance. Assemble the pudding up to six hours before baking for better flavor.
How should I store leftover King Cake Bread Pudding?
Cool it completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, or freeze individual portions for up to a month.
What’s the best way to reheat King Cake Bread Pudding?
Reheat gently in the oven to maintain creaminess. Avoid microwaving, which may dry it out.
When should I add the icing and toppings?
Add the icing drizzle and optional toppings just before serving to keep their vibrant look and texture.
How should King Cake Bread Pudding be served?
Serve warm on plates with optional whipped cream, ice cream, fresh fruit, or toasted nuts for enhanced flavor and texture.