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King Cake with Chocolate Ganache

Chocolate Ganache King Cake

A festive King Cake filled with rich chocolate ganache, perfect for celebrations like Mardi Gras.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 slices
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • mixing bowls
  • baking sheet
  • wire rack
  • saucepan
  • Rolling Pin
  • Plastic wrap
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

For the King Cake

  • 1 cup Warm milk 110°F, activates the yeast.
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons Active dry yeast Essential for dough rise.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated sugar Adds sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter Melted, for richness.
  • 3 large Eggs Provides moisture and richness.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Adds flavor.
  • 4 cups All-purpose flour Provides structure.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon Adds warmth.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground nutmeg Enhances flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Colored sugar For decoration (purple, green, gold).

For the Chocolate Ganache

  • 1 cup Heavy cream For making ganache.
  • 8 ounces Semi-sweet chocolate Chopped, for ganache.
  • 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter For richness in ganache.

Instructions
 

  • Activate the yeast by mixing warm milk with active dry yeast and letting it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the frothy yeast mixture and stir well.
  • In another bowl, combine flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
  • Punch down the dough, roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick, and spread a thin layer of chocolate ganache over it. Roll tightly to form a log and shape into a circle.
  • Place the shaped cake on a greased baking sheet, cover, and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
  • While the cake cools, prepare the ganache by heating heavy cream until simmering, then adding chopped chocolate and butter. Stir until smooth.
  • Once the cake is cool, pour the ganache over the top and sprinkle with colored sugar while the ganache is still wet.

Notes

This King Cake is a festive treat perfect for celebrations, especially Mardi Gras. Customize with different fillings and ganache flavors.
Keyword Chocolate Ganache, King Cake, Mardi Gras