Decadent King Cake with Cream Cheese Filling Easy Recipe for Festive Baking

Let me tell you, the scent of sweet cinnamon and buttery dough swirling together, wafting from my oven, is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I baked this decadent King Cake with cream cheese filling, I was instantly hooked—the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special. Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma would make simple cinnamon rolls, but this King Cake recipe feels like the grand celebration version of those cozy treats.

Honestly, I wish I’d discovered this recipe years ago. It’s dangerously easy and offers pure, nostalgic comfort with a festive twist. My family couldn’t stop sneaking slices off the cooling rack (and I can’t really blame them). Whether you’re brightening up your Mardi Gras party or just craving a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, this King Cake with cream cheese filling is your new go-to. Tested multiple times in the name of research, of course, it’s become a staple for family gatherings, gifting, and those moments when you want to impress without fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This decadent King Cake with cream cheese filling isn’t just another festive dessert—it’s a celebration in every bite. Drawing from years of kitchen experiments and family feedback, I can confidently say this recipe nails that perfect balance of rich, sweet, and tender. Here’s why it stands out:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 2 hours, perfect for busy weekends or last-minute baking plans.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed; you likely already have everything in your pantry and fridge.
• Perfect for Festive Occasions: Whether it’s Mardi Gras, a holiday brunch, or a celebratory breakfast, this cake shines.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave over the soft dough, sweet cream cheese, and vibrant icing.
• Unbelievably Delicious: Combining a luscious cream cheese filling with a tender, cinnamon-spiced dough creates a texture and flavor combo that feels like comfort food royalty.

This isn’t your everyday cinnamon roll or basic sweet bread. The cream cheese filling adds a luscious creaminess that keeps every bite moist and dreamy. Plus, the colorful glaze topping captures the festive spirit without being overpowering. Honestly, it’s the kind of recipe where you close your eyes after the first bite and savor the moment. It’s festive baking made easy, joyful, and downright addictive.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This decadent King Cake with cream cheese filling uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most are pantry staples, with a few fresh additions, making it easy to whip up anytime.

• For the Dough:
  • All-purpose flour (about 4 cups / 480g) – I prefer King Arthur for consistent texture
  • Granulated sugar (1/2 cup / 100g)
  • Instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp or one packet)
  • Warm whole milk (1 cup / 240ml) – about 110°F (43°C) for activating yeast
  • Unsalted butter (1/2 cup / 115g), melted and cooled slightly (adds richness)
  • Large eggs (2), room temperature
  • Salt (1 tsp)
  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp) for subtle sweetness
• For the Cream Cheese Filling:
  • Cream cheese (8 oz / 225g), softened – I recommend Philadelphia for smoothness
  • Granulated sugar (1/2 cup / 100g)
  • Large egg yolk (1), room temperature
  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
  • All-purpose flour (2 tbsp / 16g) to help set the filling
• For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:
  • Brown sugar (1/2 cup / 100g), packed
  • Ground cinnamon (2 tbsp)
  • Unsalted butter (1/4 cup / 57g), softened
• For the Icing & Decoration:
  • Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups / 180g)
  • Milk (2-3 tbsp / 30-45ml) or cream for thickness adjustment
  • Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp)
  • Food coloring gels in purple, green, and gold for that Mardi Gras flair
  • Colored sugar sprinkles in corresponding colors

If you prefer gluten-free, I’ve swapped all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend successfully. For dairy-free, coconut cream cheese and plant-based butter work well, though texture shifts slightly. In summer, you can add a handful of fresh berries inside the filling for a fruity twist!

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl – I like glass or stainless steel for easy cleanup
• Stand mixer with dough hook attachment (optional but speeds things up)
• Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy matters here!
• Rolling pin – a basic wooden one works fine; silicone versions are easy to clean
• Baking sheet or round cake pan (about 12-inch diameter)
• Parchment paper for lining and easy removal
• Small mixing bowls for icing and filling preparation
• Pastry brush to spread butter and egg wash (optional but helpful)

If you don’t have a stand mixer, no worries! Kneading by hand works just fine (trust me, I’ve done many times). For a budget-friendly option, stick to basic tools—you don’t need fancy gadgets to make this King Cake shine. Just keep your rolling pin well-floured to avoid sticking and treat your baking sheet like a canvas.

Preparation Method

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk (110°F / 43°C), 1 tsp sugar, and instant yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old—start fresh.
2. Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, whisk together flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until dough forms, then knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. Add flour sparingly if needed.
3. First rise: Shape dough into a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Prepare the cream cheese filling: While dough rises, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, vanilla, and flour together in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Set aside in fridge.
5. Make the cinnamon sugar mixture: Combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter in a small bowl until well mixed and spreadable.
6. Shape the cake: Once dough has risen, punch it down gently and turn onto a floured surface. Roll dough into a 12×18-inch (30×45 cm) rectangle. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges. Next, spread the cinnamon sugar mixture over the cream cheese layer.
7. Roll and form: Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch seams and ends to seal. Then, shape the log into a ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet, pinching ends to join. Cover loosely and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
8. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the King Cake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. If the top browns too fast, tent with foil halfway.
9. Prepare the icing: While cake cools slightly, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to a smooth glaze. Divide into three bowls and tint each with purple, green, and gold gel colors.
10. Decorate: Drizzle the colorful icing over the warm cake and immediately sprinkle with matching colored sugars. Let the icing set for 20 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: Keep your hands floured when shaping to prevent sticking. If the filling bubbles out during baking, it means you got plenty in there—embrace the delicious mess! You’ll know it’s done when the cake sounds hollow when tapped and smells irresistible.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Making King Cake with cream cheese filling can feel fancy, but honestly, it’s quite straightforward once you’ve got a few tricks up your sleeve. First, yeast activation is crucial—too hot or too cold milk kills the yeast. When in doubt, use a kitchen thermometer!

Kneading is your friend here. If you don’t have a stand mixer, knead for at least 10 minutes by hand; the dough should be smooth and elastic. Too dry? Add a teaspoon of milk at a time. Too sticky? Dust with flour sparingly.

Rolling and filling can get messy, but spreading softened cream cheese and cinnamon sugar evenly ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Don’t rush the second rise—it lets the dough relax and puff up, giving you that tender crumb.

One mistake I made early on was overbaking, which dries out the cake. Keep an eye during the last 10 minutes and tent with foil if needed. Lastly, the colorful icing is best drizzled warm cake so it sticks and sets beautifully.

Multitask by preparing filling and cinnamon sugar while dough rises. This recipe is forgiving, so if your first try isn’t perfect, tweak the sugar or cinnamon levels next time. It’s all about making this decadent King Cake your own!

Variations & Adaptations

This King Cake with cream cheese filling invites creativity. Here are some tasty twists you might want to try:

• Fruit-Filled Variation: Add chopped strawberries, blueberries, or even diced apples to the cream cheese filling for a fresh, fruity surprise.
• Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Mix mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling or swirl melted chocolate into the cinnamon sugar layer.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace butter with coconut oil, use dairy-free cream cheese, and swap eggs for flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg). The texture changes slightly but still delicious.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free baking blend instead of all-purpose flour and add a teaspoon of xanthan gum to maintain structure.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dough or filling for a warm, aromatic twist.

One personal favorite is adding a thin layer of pecan praline on top of the cream cheese before rolling. It adds a delightful crunch and nutty depth that’s just irresistible.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This King Cake tastes best served slightly warm or at room temperature, with icing set firm but still glossy. Cut into thick slices to show off the vibrant filling swirl inside. It pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea—perfect for cozy mornings or festive brunches.

To store, wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerated for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in the oven.

When reheating, cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out and heat at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. Flavors actually deepen after resting a day, so if you can wait, it’s worth it!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each slice of this decadent King Cake with cream cheese filling offers approximately 350-400 calories, with a balance of carbs, fats, and protein. The cream cheese adds a dose of calcium, while the cinnamon brings antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.

This recipe is customizable to fit dietary needs—swap flours for gluten-free or dairy products for plant-based to suit your lifestyle. Though rich and indulgent, it’s made with real ingredients and no artificial preservatives, making it a wholesome treat to enjoy mindfully.

For those watching sugar intake, consider reducing sugar in the filling or icing slightly; the natural sweetness of the dough and cream cheese shines through beautifully.

Conclusion

This decadent King Cake with cream cheese filling is truly a festive treat that’s easy enough for home bakers yet impressive enough for any celebration. The tender dough, creamy filling, and colorful glaze come together like a party on your plate. Customize it your way—add fruit, nuts, or spice—and make it your own tradition.

I love this recipe because it brings people together, sparks joy, and tastes like a warm hug in cake form. If you give it a try, I’d love to hear how you personalize your version or any tips you discover along the way. Go ahead, bookmark this one—you’re going to want it for every special occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough the night before?

Absolutely! After the first rise, punch down the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and continuing.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can substitute with mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a different but tasty filling. Keep in mind the texture and sweetness may vary.

How do I keep the King Cake moist?

Don’t overbake and store the cake wrapped tightly to lock in moisture. Reheating gently with foil also helps maintain softness.

Is it necessary to color the icing for King Cake?

Not strictly, but the purple, green, and gold colors are traditional and add festive flair. You can keep it plain or use other colors for different occasions.

Can I freeze the King Cake after baking?

Yes, wrap it well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm before serving for best results.

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