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 the perfect solution. This delightful dessert is great for Mardi Gras celebrations, family gatherings, or any festive occasion. With its rich flavor and vibrant colors, this cake stands out while being incredibly simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This Easy King Cake comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for last-minute celebrations.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon rolls and sweet icing creates a mouthwatering dessert that everyone will love.
• Festive Presentation: The colorful sanding sugars add a fun touch, making this cake visually appealing for any gathering.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it at parties, brunches, or as a special dessert any day of the week.
• Kid-Friendly: The ease of preparation makes it a fun activity to involve children in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bundt pan
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Mixing bowl
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan: This unique shape allows for even baking and makes presentation easy.
• Non-stick cooking spray: Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the cake after baking.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients like butter and brown sugar before pouring them into the bundt pan.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 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. While it’s heating up, spray your bundt pan generously with non-stick cooking spray. Remove the cinnamon rolls from their packaging and set aside the included icing.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Drizzle about 1⁄3 of the melted butter into the bottom and sides of the bundt pan. Sprinkle with about one-third of the brown sugar to create a sweet base.

Step 3: Shape the Cinnamon Rolls

Use your hands to smash each cinnamon roll slightly so they expand. Line half of these rolls around the bundt pan evenly.

Step 4: Layer More Butter and Sugar

Drizzle half of the remaining melted butter over these rolls. Then sprinkle with half of the remaining brown sugar for added sweetness.

Step 5: Complete the Layers

Repeat smashing and layering with the remaining cinnamon rolls. Drizzle with the rest of the butter before sprinkling on the rest of the brown sugar.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Place your prepared bundt pan in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown and puffy. Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before inserting a baby or trinket into the cake by making a small hole.

Step 7: Invert and Cool

Invert your cake onto a plate or cooling rack, allowing it to cool completely before icing.

Step 8: Prepare Icing

Heat up the icing from your cinnamon rolls in a microwave-safe bowl for just 5-10 seconds until it becomes easy to spread.

Step 9: Decorate Your King Cake

Once cooled, pour the warm icing over your Easy King Cake. Finish by sprinkling with colorful sanding sugars in purple, yellow, and green for that festive touch!

How to Serve Easy King Cake

Serving Easy King Cake is not only about the cake itself but also about creating a festive atmosphere. This delightful treat is perfect for celebrations, especially during Mardi Gras. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

For Breakfast

• Slice and Serve: Enjoy as a sweet breakfast option with coffee or tea.
• Pair with Yogurt: Serve alongside a bowl of yogurt for a balanced meal.

As a Dessert

• Warm with Ice Cream: Heat slices slightly and top with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Garnish with Fresh Fruit: Add fresh berries or banana slices on the side for a fresh contrast.

At Parties

• Cake Stand Display: Present it on a decorative cake stand to impress guests.
• Individual Portions: Cut into smaller pieces for easy grab-and-go servings during parties.

Themed Decor

• Colorful Plates: Use green, purple, and yellow plates to match the Mardi Gras theme.
• Festive Napkins: Include themed napkins for an added festive touch.

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How to Perfect Easy King Cake

Perfecting your Easy King Cake will ensure it is moist, flavorful, and visually appealing. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Cinnamon Rolls: Ensure your cinnamon rolls are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid dryness; the cake should be golden brown but still soft.
• Add More Toppings: Feel free to customize with additional toppings like sprinkles or flavored icing for extra flair.
• Cool Completely Before Icing: Allow the cake to cool fully before adding icing; this prevents it from melting off.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Easy King Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Easy King Cake can enhance your meal. Here are some tasty options that complement this sweet treat perfectly.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing element that balances sweetness.
2. Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche provides a savory counterpoint, making it ideal for brunch.
3. Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and creaminess of coleslaw offer a nice contrast in texture.
4. Spicy Sausage Links: Add a kick to your meal with spicy sausage links, bringing savory flavors into play.
5. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a delightful side that complements the cake’s sweetness.
6. Cinnamon-Spiced Coffee: Brew coffee with hints of cinnamon to echo the flavors in your Easy King Cake.

These side dishes will not only complete your meal but also create a harmonious dining experience!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Easy King Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Bundt Pan Prep: Not properly greasing the bundt pan can lead to sticking. Always spray it well with non-stick cooking spray before adding the cinnamon rolls.
• Ignoring the Baking Time: Overbaking or underbaking your cake can ruin its texture. Keep an eye on it and check for browning after 30 minutes.
• Forgetting the Icing: Some people forget to heat the icing before pouring it over. Heating it makes it easier to spread and ensures a smooth finish.
• Not Using Enough Sanding Sugar: A lack of colorful sanding sugar can make your cake look less festive. Be generous with the sprinkles to enhance its visual appeal!
• Missing the Trinket: Tradition holds that a baby or trinket is hidden inside. Don’t forget this step; it adds fun for everyone enjoying the cake!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Easy King Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy King Cake

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Easy King Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 10-15 seconds until warm but not hot.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making an Easy King Cake.

Can I use homemade dough instead of cinnamon rolls?

Yes, you can use homemade dough if you prefer! Just make sure it has enough sweetness and is easy to handle.

How do I decorate my Easy King Cake?

After icing, sprinkle generously with purple, yellow, and green sanding sugar for that festive look!

What if I can’t find sanding sugar?

You can substitute regular granulated sugar colored with food dye or simply use powdered sugar for a different look.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free cinnamon rolls or dough for a delicious gluten-free version of this Easy King Cake.

Final Thoughts

This Easy King Cake recipe is not only quick and simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different flavors or toppings, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and bring some joy to your celebrations!