Easy King Cake
Don’t have time to make a traditional King Cake? My Easy King Cake recipe using cinnamon rolls as a base and topped with sweet vanilla icing is perfect for you! This delightful dessert not only captures the essence of Mardi Gras celebrations but also suits any occasion, from family gatherings to festive parties. The unique twist of using cinnamon rolls makes preparation a breeze while still delivering that rich flavor everyone loves.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious treat in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon rolls and sweet icing creates a delightful taste that pleases everyone.
- Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for Mardi Gras, birthdays, or any festive gathering, this cake will be a crowd-pleaser.
- Fun Presentation: The colorful sanding sugars add a festive touch that makes the dessert visually appealing.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Involve kids in decorating the cake with icing and sanding sugar for a memorable experience.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bundt pan
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Mixing bowl
- Microwave-safe bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Bundt pan: This special shape helps create an even bake and allows for easy removal of the cake.
- Non-stick cooking spray: Prevents the cake from sticking to the pan, ensuring a smooth release.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients like melted butter and brown sugar before layering.
- Microwave-safe bowl: Perfect for heating the icing to achieve a pourable consistency.
Ingredients
To make your Easy King Cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 26 oz. cans of cinnamon rolls plus included icing
- 1/4 cup salted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- Green, yellow, and purple sanding sugar
How to Make Easy King Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray. Remove the cinnamon rolls from their packaging and set aside the included icing.
Step 2: Prepare the Bundt Pan
Drizzle about 1/3 of the melted butter into the bottom and sides of the bundt pan. Sprinkle with about a third of the brown sugar.
Step 3: Layer Cinnamon Rolls
Use your hands to smash each cinnamon roll slightly so they spread bigger. Line half of the cinnamon rolls around the bundt pan.
Step 4: Add More Butter and Sugar
Drizzle with half of the remaining melted butter and sprinkle with half of the remaining brown sugar.
Step 5: Repeat Layering Process
Repeat smashing and layering with the remaining cinnamon rolls. Drizzle with any leftover butter and sprinkle with the rest of the brown sugar on top.
Step 6: Bake Your Cake
Bake for about 30 minutes until the cinnamon rolls are browned, puffy, and have mostly filled up the bundt pan. Allow to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.
Step 7: Insert Baby or Trinket
Once cooled slightly, make a small hole in your cake to insert your baby or trinket before inverting it onto a plate or cooling rack.
Step 8: Ice Your Cake
Heat up the cinnamon roll icing in your microwave for just 5-10 seconds until it’s easy to spread over your cake.
Step 9: Decorate with Sanding Sugar
Pour icing over your cooled cake, then generously sprinkle with green, yellow, and purple sanding sugar to complete your festive Easy King Cake!
How to Serve Easy King Cake
Serving your Easy King Cake can be a fun and festive experience, especially during celebrations like Mardi Gras. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious treat.
For Breakfast
- With Coffee: Pair a slice of your king cake with a hot cup of coffee for a delightful morning treat.
- Alongside Fresh Fruit: Serve with sliced strawberries or oranges for a refreshing contrast.
As a Dessert
- With Whipped Cream: Top slices with whipped cream for extra sweetness.
- Ice Cream Topping: Serve warm slices over vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
For Parties
- On a Dessert Table: Place the king cake as the centerpiece of your dessert table at gatherings.
- Sliced and Plated: Cut into individual portions and serve on decorative plates for an elegant touch.
For Special Occasions
- Garnished with Candles: Add candles to celebrate birthdays or milestones, making it festive.
- With Festive Decor: Use colorful plates or napkins that match the sanding sugars for an attractive presentation.
How to Perfect Easy King Cake
To make your Easy King Cake even more enjoyable, consider these helpful tips.
- Smash the Rolls: Gently flattening the cinnamon rolls helps them fit better in the bundt pan and creates more surface area for caramelization.
- Evenly Distribute Icing: Make sure to spread the icing evenly over the cooled cake to enhance every bite with sweetness.
- Use Quality Sanding Sugar: Choosing high-quality sanding sugar adds vibrant color and crunch that elevates the cake’s appearance.
- Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; if needed, adjust based on your oven’s performance to avoid undercooking.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure and flavor.
- Add Your Personal Touch: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips between layers for extra flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Easy King Cake
Complementing your Easy King Cake with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great ideas:
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Sausage Links – Savory sausage pairs well with sweet desserts, creating a satisfying contrast.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and berries provides a creamy texture alongside the cake.
- Spinach Salad – A light spinach salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and cuts through the richness of the cake.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses complements the sweet notes and makes for an excellent appetizer option.
- Vegetable Crudités – Crisp veggies served with dip offer a crunchy contrast, perfect for balancing flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Easy King Cake turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.
- Skipping the Butter: Not drizzling melted butter can lead to a dry cake. Always make sure to coat the bundt pan with butter for moisture.
- Overbaking: Baking too long can cause the cake to become hard. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness around 30 minutes.
- Ignoring Cooling Time: Trying to invert the cake too soon can ruin its shape. Allow it to cool in the pan for at least 5 minutes before flipping.
- Not Using Enough Sugar: Insufficient brown sugar may result in less flavor. Be generous when sprinkling on layers of cinnamon rolls.
- Forgetting the Icing: Skipping or rushing the icing step results in a less festive cake. Take your time to warm and spread the icing evenly over the top.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the icing separate if possible to maintain texture.
Freezing Easy King Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Easy King Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds until just warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making this Easy King Cake, check these FAQs.
What is Easy King Cake?
Easy King Cake is a simplified version of the traditional Mardi Gras dessert made with cinnamon rolls, making it quick and delicious.
How do I customize my Easy King Cake?
You can add various fillings, like cream cheese or fruit preserves, between cinnamon rolls before baking for extra flavor.
Can I make this Easy King Cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
What are some serving suggestions?
This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or hot chocolate, perfect for sharing during celebrations or family gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Easy King Cake is not only simple to make but also delightful in flavor and presentation. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or fillings. Whether it’s for Mardi Gras or just a special treat, this recipe will bring joy to your table!
Easy King Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with our Easy King Cake, a delightful twist on the traditional Mardi Gras dessert. This recipe transforms simple cinnamon rolls into a vibrant cake adorned with sweet vanilla icing and colorful sanding sugar. Perfect for any celebration—from Mardi Gras parties to family gatherings—this cake is quick to prepare and sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the rich flavors and fun presentation while creating lasting memories with loved ones. Get ready to celebrate in style with this effortless yet delicious treat!
Ingredients
- 26 oz. cans of cinnamon rolls (with included icing)
- 1/4 cup salted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- Green, yellow, and purple sanding sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- Drizzle 1/3 of the melted butter into the bundt pan and sprinkle with 1/3 of the brown sugar.
- Smash each cinnamon roll slightly and arrange half around the bundt pan.
- Drizzle with half of the remaining butter and sprinkle with half of the remaining brown sugar.
- Repeat layering with the remaining cinnamon rolls, drizzle leftover butter, and top with remaining brown sugar.
- Bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown and puffy. Allow cooling for 5 minutes before inverting onto a plate.
- Heat icing for easy spreading, pour over the cake, and decorate with sanding sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
