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Cajun Ninja King Cake

Cajun Ninja King Cake: A Sweet Mardi Gras Celebration Recipe

Experience the festive spirit of Mardi Gras with this beginner-friendly Cajun Ninja King Cake, perfect for sharing and celebrating.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups All-Purpose Flour Can be swapped with bread flour for added chewiness.
  • 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Consider brown sugar for a richer taste.
  • 2 packets Active Dry Yeast Ensure it's fresh for the best rise.
  • 1 cup Milk Opt for almond milk for a dairy-free version.
  • 1/2 cup Butter Plant-based butter works for vegan adaptations.
  • 2 large Eggs Use flax eggs for a vegan option (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water).
  • 1 tablespoon Cinnamon Feel free to adjust or replace with nutmeg for a twist.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Balances and enhances overall flavor.
For the Glaze
  • 2 cups Powdered Sugar Substitute with low-calorie sweeteners for a healthier version.
  • 3 tablespoons Food Coloring (Purple, Green, Yellow) Natural colorants are great for a healthier alternative.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cajun Ninja King Cake
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 2 packets of active dry yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s frothy. Then, mix in 2 eggs, 1/2 cup of melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Gradually incorporate 4 cups of all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms, kneading until smooth.
  2. Transfer the kneaded dough to a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise in a warm area for approximately 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
  3. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Evenly spread a cinnamon sugar mixture over the dough, then roll it tightly from one end to create a log. Carefully form this log into a ring shape, pinching the edges to seal them securely.
  4. Place the shaped King Cake on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it loosely with a kitchen towel and let it rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
  5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the Cajun Ninja King Cake for 25-30 minutes, or until it turns golden brown.
  6. After baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes. Prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of milk until smooth, then pour it over the cake and decorate with vibrant food coloring sugars.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 4gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

To enhance tradition, consider adding a hidden plastic baby or pecan, and remember to warn your guests!

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