Discover the Magic of King Cakes

What is King Cake?

King cake, also known as galette des rois in French or bolo de rei in Portuguese, is a sweet bread that originated in medieval Europe. It's typically made with laminated dough and filled with cream or butter, often topped with sugar and glaze. The tradition of eating king cakes dates back to the Middle Ages, where it was believed that the cake held magical powers.

The History Behind King Cakes

King cakes have been a part of various cultures for centuries, but the most well-known tradition is associated with the Christian celebration of Epiphany. According to legend, the three wise men followed the star of Bethlehem to find Jesus, and in some countries, it's believed that the cake holds a small figurine or bean inside, which represents the baby Jesus.

Modern-Day King Cake Traditions

Today, king cakes are enjoyed worldwide, often as part of Mardi Gras celebrations. In some cities, it's customary to hide a small plastic baby inside the cake, symbolizing the search for Jesus. The tradition has also evolved to include various fillings and toppings, making each region unique.