Get ready to transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of New Orleans with this show-stopping King Cake Layer Cake! This isn't just another dessert – it's a culinary celebration that captures the spirit of Mardi Gras in every decadent slice. Imagine a luxurious cake that combines the beloved tradition of King Cake with the elegance of a layer cake, creating a dessert that's both nostalgic and innovative. Whether you're hosting a Fat Tuesday party or simply craving a taste of Louisiana magic, this recipe promises to be the crowning glory of your dessert table.
Prep Time: 40 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Colored sugar (purple, green, gold)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, ensuring even coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
- Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed. Begin and end with dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove cakes from oven and let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Once cooled, frost the cake layers with traditional cream cheese frosting and sprinkle with purple, green, and gold colored sugar in traditional Mardi Gras pattern.
- Optional: Hide a small plastic baby figurine inside the cake as per King Cake tradition.
Tips
- Room Temperature is Key: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter, eggs, and buttermilk, are at room temperature for the most smooth and even cake batter.
- Don't Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake.
- Color with Confidence: When sprinkling the traditional Mardi Gras colors (purple, green, and gold), create a playful pattern that represents the festive spirit of the celebration.
- The Hidden Treasure: If including the traditional plastic baby, make sure to warn your guests about its presence to prevent any unexpected surprises while eating.
- Cream Cheese Frosting Tip: For the smoothest frosting, ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened but not melted.
- Storage Advice: This cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 120mg
