What Is the Meaning of a King Cake?

Children especially love king cake at Mardi Gras.

King cake plays an important role in the tradition of Mardi Gras. This delicious cake is used in both child and adult celebrations of the holiday.

Origin

King cakes came to New Orleans with the first French settlers. The cakes were part of a family's private celebration and didn't take on a public role until after the Civil War.

Significance of the Toy Baby

There is a plastic toy baby baked into each king cake, though sometimes it will be a bean or a coin. Whoever gets the baby is responsible for having the next party and baking the king cake.

Seasonal Appropriateness

While the king cake is now associated with Mardi Gras, king cake season officially starts on Twelfth Night (January 6th) and ends on Mardi Gras day.

Appearance

While king cakes can vary greatly in appearance, generally they are made in a fashion that resembles a very large donut, and are typically iced and then decorated in Mardi Gras colored sprinkles (yellow, purple and green).

Taste

The name "cake" is a bit misleading; most king cakes are more of a sweet bread like a brioche in taste. The icing is usually made with a cream cheese base.

References

• Gumbo Pages: King Cake