12.2.13

King Cake

     King Cake is a delicious New Orleans tradition associated with Epiphany and Mardi Gras, and our family enjoys this treat each year. I read that the name is from the three kings that came to visit baby Jesus, who is represented by the tiny plastic baby hidden  inside the cake. We have tried several times to make our own, and this year is the best yet! Some are similar to cinnamon rolls. Others have fruit fillings. My favorite flavor is the cream cheese filled.


Ingredients:
  • 2 cans refrigerated crescent rolls

Filling:
  • 8 oz. cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup raisins, soaked in hot water then drained
  • 3/4 cup pecans
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom (optional ~ we are still enjoying adding this spice to recipes) 
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
Topping:
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • milk, added slowly until correct consistency
  • colored sugar sprinkles
Soaking the raisins helped them to be chopped (almost pureed) easily. 

     I admit it isn't pretty, but the soaked then pureed raisins are what makes this so good. Even my daughter that doesn't like raisins thinks that this recipe is wonderful.


     Mix filling ingredients in food processor until pecans and raisins are chopped completely and consistency is smooth.

     I've been to a few Pampered Chef parties, and they can always make the rings look so pretty. Our attempt was yummy. Open the crescent rolls and overlap them over the edge of a pizza stone. Spoon filling evenly around edge, then fold over remaining dough and seal. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until golden brown.


     Mix powdered sugar with milk (add one teaspoon at a time) until easy to stir but not runny. Pour over top of baked and slightly cooled king cake. Shake colored sugar sprinkles on top of icing.

Jennifer

4 comments:

  1. Anonymous2/12/2013

    I've never tried to make a king cake, but yours looks yummy!! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Try it, Wendy. This one is fairly easy.

      Delete
  2. I pinned this last year and made it yesterday. Delicious and easy!! Thank you!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You are welcome; I'm glad you liked it. It is time to make this again. I need to shop for raisins and crescent rolls.

      Delete

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