Mardi Gras King Cake

The King Cake is a longstanding tradition in New Orleans and can be seen at bakeries throughout the month of February. They are normally decorated with icing in the classic gold, purple and green colors of Mardi Gras, ending the celebration that Tuesday before lent.

These cakes are made in the shape of a crown or Bundt out of sweetened yeast dough or puff pastry. The tradition lies in what is baked inside the cake— a small plastic shaped baby that represents Jesus Christ. The person that receives the slice with the baby inside is in charge of bringing the King Cake to next year’s celebration.

(photo credit: McGeesites)

While we are a bit far from New Orleans, we can still get a taste of some King Cake from local bakeries around Austin. One of Crave Catering’s specialties are dessert stations, so if this Mardi Gras you are looking to celebrate, be sure to give us a call!

Easy Tiger Bake Shop & Beer Garden (709 E. Sixth, 512/614-4972) A king cake will run about $18, which includes Danish dough filled with cinnamon-sugar, dusted with Mardi Gras-colored sugars, and with a tiny tiger hidden inslide. Order by phone for in-store pick-up.

Whole Foods Market (New Orleans-style sweet yeast dough braids filled with cinnamon-sugar, pecan praline, chocolate, or raspberry cream cheese for $12.99

Happy Fat Tuesday!