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gambino's king cake

gambino's king cake

Bring the magic of New Orleans to your kitchen with this irresistible gambino's king cake recipe. Perfect for Mardi Gras or any celebration.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 8 people
Calories: 250kcal
Cost: $15

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowls
  • Rolling pin
  • Parchment paper
  • Baking sheet
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • food coloring purple, green, and gold
  • 1 small plastic baby figurine optional

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, mix the warm milk and yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, salt, melted butter, eggs, and activated yeast mixture and knead until smooth and elastic.
  • Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rest for an hour until it doubles in size.
  • While the dough rises, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a separate bowl.
  • Roll out the dough into a rectangle and spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over it.
  • Roll the dough tightly like a jelly roll and form it into a circle, pinching the ends together.
  • Place the cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and seal the edges with a little water.
  • Bake the cake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
  • While cooling, prepare the icing by mixing powdered sugar with a few drops of each food coloring and drizzle over the cake in stripes.
  • Optionally, add the plastic baby figurine underneath the cake before serving.
  • Use a stand mixer for easier kneading. Don’t rush the rising process; patience is key to a light cake. Experiment with different fillings like cream cheese or pecans. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze individual slices for longer storage. Add a slice of bread to maintain moisture!

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 50mg | Sodium: 200mg | Potassium: 150mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 300IU | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 1mg
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