King Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of tradition, community, and indulgence. Originating from the vibrant festivities of Mardi Gras, this iconic treat brings a touch of New Orleans right to our kitchens. The addition of praline takes it to the next level, blending the rich, caramelized flavor of pecans with the soft, cinnamon-laced layers of the classic King Cake.
King Cake Recipe Praline
Elevate your King Cake with this indulgent praline twist, blending buttery pecans and caramel notes with the classic cinnamon-swirled dough. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a showstopping dessert for any celebration.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
For the Praline Filling:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Icing:
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons milk (plus more as needed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Purple, green, and gold sprinkles for decoration
Optional:
- Plastic baby figurine (for tradition)
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, softened butter, milk, beaten eggs, and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, then gradually stir in the flour. Knead for 8–10 minutes on a floured surface until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1 1/2 hours or until it doubles in size.
3. Make the Praline Filling
While the dough rises, mix pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Stir until evenly combined.
Tip: Toast the pecans for 5 minutes in a 350°F oven before mixing for extra depth of flavor.
4. Assemble the Cake
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 10×20-inch rectangle. Spread the praline filling evenly over the surface, leaving a 1-inch border. Roll the dough tightly from the long side, pinching the seam to seal. Form the rolled dough into a ring, tucking the ends together.
If using a baby figurine, gently insert it into the dough before shaping the ring.
5. Second Rise
Place the dough ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let it rise for another 45 minutes.
6. Bake the King Cake
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Brush the dough with melted butter and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Make the Icing
In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency with additional milk, if necessary.
8. Decorate
Drizzle the icing generously over the cooled cake. Sprinkle with purple, green, and gold sprinkles to complete the festive look.
Table of Key Steps & Timing
| Step | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Activate yeast | 5 minutes |
| Prepare the dough | 20 minutes |
| First rise | 1–1 1/2 hours |
| Make praline filling | 10 minutes |
| Assemble the cake | 15 minutes |
| Second rise | 45 minutes |
| Bake | 25–30 minutes |
| Decorate | 15 minutes |
Ingredients
To create the perfect King Cake with Praline, we will prepare the dough, a decadent filling, and a luscious praline topping. Gather these ingredients to get started.
For The Dough
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 small plastic baby figurine (optional, for tradition)
For The Filling
- ½ cup brown sugar (lightly packed)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup pecans (finely chopped)
For The Praline Topping
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup pecans (halved or roughly chopped)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Each element adds a layer of flavor and texture to our praline-inspired King Cake, ensuring a stunning dessert worthy of celebration.
Tools And Equipment
To successfully make the perfect King Cake with Praline, having the right tools and equipment is essential. Each piece of equipment plays a vital role in ensuring the dough, praline filling, and icing come together seamlessly. Here’s what we’ll need:
Essential Tools
- Large mixing bowl – For combining the ingredients and kneading the dough.
- Stand mixer with a dough hook – Speeds up the kneading process and ensures consistent mixing.
- Rolling pin – Helps roll the dough out evenly for the filling.
- Knife or bench scraper – For cutting the dough into sections or shaping folds.
- Baking sheet (preferably nonstick) – Provides an even surface for baking the King Cake.
- Parchment paper – Prevents the cake from sticking to the baking sheet.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate measurement of all ingredients.
- Small saucepan – Perfect for preparing the praline topping.
- Offset spatula – For spreading the praline filling and icing evenly.
- Wire cooling rack – Ensures proper cooling of the cake after baking.
Temperature Tools
- Thermometer for liquids – Ensures the milk is the correct temperature (around 110°F) for activating the yeast.
- Oven thermometer – Keeps the baking temperature consistent for even cooking.
Optional Decorative Tools
- Pastry brush – Helps with even egg wash distribution for a golden crust.
- Cake decorating bag – For precise piping of icing, if desired.
- Plastic baby figurine (optional) – Traditional for King Cake! Hide it within the dough before baking for surprise fun.
Equipment Role Table
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large mixing bowl | Mixing and hand-kneading dough. |
| Stand mixer with dough hook | Effortlessly kneads the dough. |
| Rolling pin | Rolls dough into an even rectangle. |
| Small saucepan | Prepares the praline topping. |
| Offset spatula | For precise spreading of filling and icing. |
| Wire cooling rack | Prevents overcooking and allows full cooling. |
Directions
Let’s walk through the exciting steps of creating a King Cake with Praline. Follow these detailed instructions to prepare, assemble, and decorate this festive treat.
Prep The Dough
- Warm 1 cup of milk to 110°F using a thermometer. Pour it into a large mixing bowl.
- Sprinkle 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the warm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, and 2 large eggs into the yeast mixture. Whisk until combined.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt and 4 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, until the dough starts to form.
- Knead the dough using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook on medium speed for 5–7 minutes or by hand for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Make The Praline Filling
- Combine 1 cup of packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, and 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter in a medium bowl.
- Add 1 cup of finely chopped pecans and mix thoroughly. The mixture should be soft and spreadable.
Assemble The King Cake
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 10×20-inch rectangle.
- Spread the praline filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border along the edges.
- Starting on the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam and ends to seal.
- Form the log into an oval shape and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pinch the ends together to seal the ring.
- Optional: Tuck a small plastic baby figurine into the dough from the bottom (traditionally symbolizing good luck).
- Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let it rise for 45 minutes to 1 hour until puffy.
Bake The Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F while the dough rises.
- Brush the dough with 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water for a shiny finish.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown. Use an oven thermometer if needed for accuracy.
- Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before adding the praline topping.
Prepare The Praline Topping
- Combine 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup heavy cream, and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir continuously until the mixture starts to boil. Let it cook for 2–4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 cup of chopped pecans. Let it cool for 5–10 minutes.
Decorate The Cake
- Drizzle the praline topping evenly over the cooled cake. Ensure it cascades beautifully over the sides.
- For a traditional Mardi Gras finish, sprinkle purple, green, and gold sugar over the topping while it’s slightly tacky.
- Optional: Use a pastry bag to add swirls of icing for extra decoration.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy the decadent King Cake with Praline!
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing a King Cake with Praline in advance can save time and streamline the process, especially for busy schedules during Mardi Gras season. Here’s how we can efficiently plan and store each component for a stress-free baking experience.
1. Preparing the Dough Ahead
- After kneading the dough and achieving a smooth, elastic consistency, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- When ready to use, let the dough come to room temperature and allow it to rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size before assembling the cake.
2. Praline Filling and Topping Preparation
Both the praline filling and praline topping can be prepared in advance. Follow these steps to get ahead:
- Filling: Prepare the cinnamon-sugar and pecan mixture, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Topping: Cook the praline topping according to the recipe instructions. Let it cool completely, transfer to a sealed container, and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat it gently over low heat or in the microwave before spreading over the cake.
3. Assembling in Advance
If baking the cake on the same day is daunting, consider assembling it before:
- Roll out the dough, spread the praline filling, and shape it into a ring. Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover it loosely with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator overnight.
- Before baking, let the assembled cake sit at room temperature for 45-60 minutes to complete the rising process.
4. Fully Baked King Cake
We can bake the King Cake in its entirety and store it for later use:
- Let the baked cake cool completely. Wrap it tightly in a layer of plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze the cake for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, thaw it at room temperature, then warm it gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-12 minutes.
- Once warmed, apply the praline topping and decorate with Mardi Gras colors for a fresh, festive finish.
Quick Reference Table
| Component | Storage Type | Timeframe | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dough | Airtight container | Up to 24 hrs | Refrigerate, rise at warm temperature later. |
| Praline Filling | Airtight container | Up to 3 days | Store at room temperature. |
| Praline Topping | Sealed container | Up to 5 days | Refrigerate, reheat before use. |
| Fully Baked Cake | Plastic wrap + foil | Up to 1 month | Freeze; reheat and decorate as needed. |
Tips For Success
Creating the perfect King Cake with Praline involves attention to detail and a few best practices. Here are our essential tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time.
1. Nail the Dough Texture
- Use warm milk (110°F) for activating the yeast. Too hot or cold can prevent proper rising.
- Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This usually takes about 8–10 minutes with a stand mixer or 12–15 minutes by hand.
- The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. Add flour gradually if necessary, but avoid adding too much to keep the cake tender.
Tip: Always check your yeast’s expiration date to ensure it’s active for a proper rise.
2. Perfect Filling Distribution
- Spread the praline filling evenly across the rolled-out dough to avoid dense or uneven layers during baking.
- Leave about 1 inch of plain dough along the edges to seal the seam tightly after rolling.
3. Praline Mastery
- Cook the praline topping over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The sugar should fully dissolve for a glossy texture.
- Pour the topping over the baked cake while it’s still warm for better absorption and a smooth finish.
4. Rising Time is Key
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for optimal results.
- Perform the second rise after shaping the ring. This step defines the cake’s final structure and fluffiness.
| Rise Time | When | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| First Rise | After making dough | 1-1.5 hours |
| Second Rise | After shaping into ring | 30-45 minutes |
5. Monitor Baking Temperature
- Use an oven thermometer to ensure consistent baking at 375°F. Home ovens may have hot spots.
- Bake until the cake reaches a golden brown color. Start checking for doneness around 25 minutes.
Tip: If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
6. Decoration Tips
- Use Mardi Gras-colored sanding sugars (gold, green, purple) or sprinkles to enhance its celebratory feel.
- Apply the colored toppings while the praline is still slightly wet for better adherence.
7. Serving & Storing
- Let the cake cool slightly before slicing; this helps the praline set properly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for 15 seconds before serving.
Conclusion
Creating a King Cake with praline is a delightful way to bring tradition and indulgence together for any celebration. The rich praline filling and topping elevate this classic dessert, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for your table. With the right ingredients, tools, and a little patience, the process becomes as enjoyable as the final result.
Whether you’re celebrating Mardi Gras or simply sharing a special treat with loved ones, this praline King Cake promises to impress. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the sweet, caramelized flavors of praline bring joy to your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a King Cake?
A King Cake is a festive, ring-shaped dessert traditionally associated with Mardi Gras celebrations. It features a soft, cinnamon-infused dough, sometimes filled with flavors like praline, and is topped with icing and colorful sugar in purple, green, and gold to symbolize Mardi Gras.
What makes the praline King Cake unique?
The praline King Cake enhances the classic recipe with a rich, caramelized pecan filling and topping. This addition adds a deeper flavor and texture, making it a more indulgent version of the traditional King Cake.
What ingredients are needed for a praline King Cake?
You’ll need basic dough ingredients: warm milk, yeast, sugar, butter, eggs, flour, cinnamon, and salt. The filling includes brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and pecans, while the praline topping requires sugar, heavy cream, butter, pecans, and vanilla extract.
What tools are essential for making a King Cake?
Key tools include a large mixing bowl, stand mixer with a dough hook, rolling pin, baking sheet, and measuring cups. Additional tools like a thermometer, pastry brush, and cake decorating bag help enhance accuracy and the final presentation.
Can I prepare the King Cake components ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough, filling, and praline topping in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer and assemble or bake the cake when ready to serve.
How long does it take to make a praline King Cake?
Preparation and rising times for the dough take approximately 2–3 hours, with additional time for assembly, baking (25–30 minutes), and decorating. In total, set aside about 4–5 hours for the entire process.
What’s the best way to decorate a King Cake?
Decorate your King Cake with a drizzle of icing and sprinkle colored sugar in traditional Mardi Gras shades—purple (justice), green (faith), and gold (power). For a praline King Cake, add the praline topping before the sugar for extra flair.
Why is a plastic baby figurine included in King Cakes?
The plastic baby is a signature tradition symbolizing good luck and prosperity. Hidden inside the cake, the person who finds it in their slice is typically expected to host the next celebration.
How do I ensure my King Cake bakes perfectly?
Monitor the rising dough to ensure it doubles in size, use an oven thermometer for accurate baking, and bake until the cake is golden. Do not overbake to preserve the soft texture of the dough.
How should I store leftover King Cake?
Store leftover King Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze it and reheat slices before serving to maintain freshness.