If you are looking for a sweet treat to celebrate Mardi Gras or simply satisfy your craving for a delicious cake, look no further than Gambino’s King Cake. This traditional New Orleans dessert is a must-try for any dessert enthusiast. We have curated the best and easiest recipe for Gambino’s King Cake that you can easily recreate at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup warm milk
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup cinnamon sugar
– ½ cup cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Food coloring (purple, green, and gold)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
6. Roll out the dough into a rectangle shape and sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over it.
7. Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the dough into a log.
8. Shape the log into a circle and pinch the ends together to seal.
9. Place the cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
11. While the cake is cooling, prepare the icing by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, and lemon juice until smooth.
12. Divide the icing into three bowls and add food coloring to each bowl.
13. Drizzle the colored icing over the cooled cake, alternating colors.
14. Sprinkle with colored sugar for an extra festive touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Is King Cake only eaten during Mardi Gras?
– Traditionally, it is enjoyed during the Mardi Gras season, but you can make it year-round.
2. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
– Yes, you can substitute instant yeast in the same amount.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
– Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight and continue with the remaining steps the next day.
4. Can I use a different filling?
– Yes, you can experiment with different fillings like cream cheese, fruit preserves, or even chocolate.
5. Can I freeze the King Cake?
– Yes, you can freeze it for up to one month. Just make sure to thaw it completely before serving.
6. Can I use a different type of flour?
– All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, but you can try using bread flour for a slightly denser texture.
7. How long does the cake stay fresh?
– It is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of baking.
8. Can I omit the food coloring?
– Yes, you can skip the food coloring if you prefer a plain King Cake.
9. Can I use a different type of icing?
– Traditionally, a cream cheese icing is used, but you can use a simple powdered sugar glaze if desired.
10. Can I make mini King Cakes?
– Yes, you can divide the dough into smaller portions to make individual-sized cakes.
11. Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?
– Absolutely! Feel free to customize the filling according to your taste preferences.
Enjoy the taste of New Orleans with this easy and delicious Gambino’s King Cake recipe. Whether it’s for Mardi Gras or any special occasion, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends with its vibrant colors and delectable flavors.