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Cream Cheese King Cake

A delightful twist on the classic Mardi Gras treat, this Cream Cheese King Cake combines a rich cream cheese filling wrapped in a soft, pillowy dough, making it perfect for celebrations or cozy desserts at home.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast 2 1/4 teaspoons
  • 1/2 cup warm milk 110°F
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Colored sugar for decoration

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Rolling pin
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg, mixing until a dough forms.
  3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
  5. While the dough rises, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
  6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
  7. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the dough. Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, then shape it into a ring.
  8. Place the formed cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

For an extra touch, add a small plastic baby or charm inside the cake before baking.