What is mardi gras king cake

Mardi Gras 's "Fat Tuesday" falls on February Eating king cake, a messy, breaded treat, is a major Mardi Gras tradition that begins on January 6. Here's the history behind the treat and the meaning of the plastic baby inside. Related Story. This content is imported from Instagram. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

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But they're always round with a hollowed out center—think of it like a crown that you could put on your head if you were feeling particularly festive. On the outside, king cake is usually covered with a delicious icing and oodles and oodles of green, purple, and yellow sprinkles.

Those colors aren't random. The green symbolizes faith; purple stands for power; and yellow represents justice. Oh—and there's always a tiny plastic baby hidden in there too. Don't worry!

It's not that little, so there's no fear that you're going to eat it without knowing. The plastic baby just makes eating king cake more fun. In fact, it kind of makes it a sport. Everyone wants to find that little baby. Some say the little baby is Baby Jesus, and others just think of him as a symbol of luck or prosperity.

Whomever gets the slice with the baby is "crowned" king or queen for the day and is said to be on his or her way to a very good year. So not only do you get to eat cake, but you basically have a shot at becoming royalty, if only for one day. You could make it from scratch—there are tons of recipes online that can meet almost all needs and skill levels, but the basics remain the same.

Don't forget to drop in the tiny plastic baby! After it's baked and completely cooled, you pile on the icing and a lot of sprinkles.

But note: It might take up to four hours for you to make this cake from scratch. Not up to making one from scratch? As of Wednesday, November 10, Louisiana's hospitalization rate is the lowest in the U. Meeting Planners. Travel Professionals. Press and Media. You've added your first Trip Builder item! Keep track of your trip itinerary here. Sign Up. Things to Do. French Quarter. Cultural Arts. Mardi Gras. Find Restaurants. Where to Eat. Traditional Foods. Top Chefs.

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