Mardi Gras, also known as ‘Fat Tuesday’, is a day full of celebrations, parades, beads, decorated masks, and food! Of course, it wouldn’t be a Mardi Gras celebration without a king cake for dessert, but where did this cake come from and why is it now a staple for any Fat Tuesday party?
The traditional king cake is a twisted ring of brioche-like cake topped with icing or sugar and decked in the colors of Mardi Gras, which are purple, green, and gold. But the most fun part of it all is the baby hiding inside the cake!
The person who receives the slice of cake with the baby (or another small trinket) is said to be ‘king’ for the day and will have luck, prosperity, and the unofficial responsibility of hosting the next Mardi Gras party. Though, these are just some examples, as people tend to make up their own traditions for what the baby symbolizes.
For historical context, king cakes are a traditional dessert usually consumed from January 6. This day is also known as Three Kings Day or Epiphany, a Christian religious holiday that commemorates the visit of the three wise men to baby Jesus. The season for king cake lasts until Fat Tuesday, which is February 21st this year, according to a northjersey article.
The Mardi Gras holiday, with its religious origins, has now become a time of fun and enjoyment for those around the world. In Spain and Latin America, the “Rosca de Reyes” is a similar version to the king cake, and in France, you can get a “Galette des Rois,” which is a flaky pastry stuffed with fruit, sweets, and a paper crown on top.
Where to order a king cake
Looking for an authentic king cake for your Mardi Gras celebration? Goldbelly offers nationwide shipping for handmade local New Orleans king cakes to any of their nearest locations. On their website, they have a variety of sizes and styles to choose from.
Instead, if you want something more local, you can order and pick up your own king cake from La Bon Bake Shoppes, which is only a 10-minute drive from Rutgers campus. The bakery also has other locations around New Jersey, including Edison, Somerset, Woodbridge, and South Plainfield.
According to their website, there are currently two different sizes the shop offers. The medium cake is priced at $20.00 and can serve 10 to 15 people. The large cake is priced at $33.00 and can serve 20 to 25 people. Interested customers can place an order on their website or call the shop from their phone number, (732)-287-1313.
Unfortunately, this year, their order cut-off date has already passed — but it doesn’t mean you still can’t have your cake and eat it too!
How to make a king cake at home
Recipes for a king cake can be found on many different cooking websites and can be made at home. However, the cooking time for a king cake can take anywhere from three to four hours.
If you are not looking to stick around the kitchen for that long, Pillsbury has an alternative recipe for mini king cakes on their website. The cooking time is around 40 minutes, only needs four ingredients, and serves five people.
While these cakes are not like the original, they are a great start for those looking to get into the Mardi Gras spirit. More information about the history of the king cake and the baby can be found in this Delish article.