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Gluten-Free King Cake: Celebrate! Gluten-Free King Cake: bake this festive and sweet dessert for Mardi Gras. Master the dough and create a delicious, show-stopp

Gluten-Free King Cake: Celebrate!

Gluten-Free King Cake: bake this festive and sweet dessert for Mardi Gras. Master the dough and create a delicious, show-stopping treat for any celebration.
Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tsp instant yeast
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • cup warm milk
  • 3 ½ cups gluten-free bread flour
  • 2 tsp xanthan gum
  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp cinnamon powder
  • 2 tbsp gluten-free all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup chopped apple

Method
 

  1. Prepare the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine instant yeast, 1 tbsp sugar, and warm milk. Mix well, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rest for 10-15 minutes until bubbly. Set aside.
  2. In a standing mixer bowl, mix gluten-free bread flour, xanthan gum, the remaining 3 tbsp sugar, and baking powder. Whisk all dry ingredients until fully incorporated.
  3. Add the large eggs and pour in the yeast mixture. Attach the hook to the standing mixer and mix for 10-15 minutes. Add more milk if the dough appears too dry.
  4. Once the dough is smooth, add the unsalted butter and salt. Mix again until the dough is uniformly smooth.
  5. Transfer the dough to a floured flat surface. Knead for 5 minutes, then form it into a ball. Place the dough in an oiled clean bowl, cover with a damp kitchen towel, and let it rest for 40-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
  6. Prepare the cinnamon filling: Combine brown sugar, cinnamon powder, gluten-free all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and chopped apple. This mixture can be refrigerated until ready to use.
  7. When the dough is ready, transfer it to a flat surface covered with parchment paper. Place another sheet of parchment paper over the dough and roll it into a ¼-inch thick rectangle. Position the longer side closest to you for easier rolling.
  8. Spread the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch clean border. Using the parchment paper, roll the dough into a log, then securely pinch the seam and ends closed.

Notes

- For optimal rise, ensure your warm milk is between 105-115°F (40-46°C) to properly activate the instant yeast. Too hot will kill it, too cold won't activate it.
- Do not over-knead the gluten-free dough; unlike wheat flour, excessive kneading can make it tough. Mix just until smooth and combined.
- Storage: Leftover king cake can be stored at room temperature, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, freeze individual slices for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.