Ingredients

1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)

2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast

½ cup granulated sugar, divided

2 large eggs, room temperature

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 teaspoon salt

4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for dough)

½ cup packed light brown sugar (for filling)

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (for filling)

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (for filling)

1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)

2 tablespoons milk or water (for icing)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)

Purple, green, and gold sanding sugar (for decoration)

1 small plastic baby (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the yeast by combining the warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of the granulated sugar in a small bowl. Let it stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: In a large bowl or stand mixer, mix the remaining granulated sugar, eggs, softened butter, and salt until just combined.

Step 3: Add the yeast mixture and 3 cups of flour to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until a shaggy dough forms. Gradually add the remaining flour and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Incorporate the 1 teaspoon of cinnamon into the dough during kneading.

Step 4: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Prepare the filling by mixing the brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl until it forms a thick paste.

Step 6: Punch down the risen dough. On a floured surface, roll it into a 12 by 18-inch rectangle. Brush with melted butter and evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the surface.

Step 7: Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Pinch the seam and ends closed to form a ring or oval shape. If using, insert the plastic baby into the cake now.

Step 8: Place the ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely, and let rise for 30 to 45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 9: Bake for 25 to 35 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 10: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a thick glaze. Drizzle over the cooled cake and immediately sprinkle with the purple, green, and gold sanding sugars.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough or filling.

Use a stand mixer with a dough hook for easier kneading, but kneading by hand works well too.

If you prefer, substitute half the all-purpose flour with bread flour for a chewier texture.

Replace the plastic baby with a small, clean figurine or omit it entirely if serving children.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and complete the first rise, then refrigerate overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and proceeding with the recipe.

What does the plastic baby inside the cake represent?

The plastic baby symbolizes luck and prosperity. The person who finds it in their slice traditionally hosts the next King Cake party or provides the next cake.