Mastering the Iconic Dong Phuong King Cake of New Orleans

No Mardi Gras celebration is complete without a slice of king cake, the official dessert of Carnival season. While king cakes abound in New Orleans, the time-honored classic from Dong Phuong Bakery stands above. Known for its pillowy dough, rich filling, and beautifully braided design, this cake brings the flavors of New Orleans into your home. Read on for a history of this icon, step-by-step recipe, and pro decorating tips.

The Story and Tradition of Dong Phuong King Cake

In 1981, the Huynh family opened Dong Phuong Bakery in New Orleans East after arriving from Vietnam. They brought with them traditional French-influenced Vietnamese baking techniques. Their king cake quickly gained renown for its gooey cream cheese filling encased in a golden braided dough.

Mastering the Iconic Dong Phuong King Cake of New Orleans

The signature design symbolizes the communion between cultures in New Orleans. Dong Phuong king cake has been honored by media outlets nationwide as the epitome of this rich tradition. Now shipped nationwide, it marks Mardi Gras wherever it’s enjoyed.

King Cake Dough Secrets

A delicate touch yields Dong Phuong's signature pillowy yet stable dough:

High Quality Flour

Bread flour has more gluten strength to stretch around the filling without tearing.

Scald the Milk

Heating milk before adding blooms the yeast for better rise.

Proof the Yeast

Dissolve yeast in warm milk first to activate and ensure proper fermentation.

Knead Thoroughly

Kneading develops stretchy gluten strands so dough holds its shape when proofing and baking.

Slow Cold Rise

An overnight rest in the fridge builds complex flavors as the yeast ferments slowly.

Crafting the Creamy Filling

The signature Dong Phuong king cake filling features:

Rich Cream Cheese

Full fat brick cream cheese provides unctuous texture and tang.

Whipped Texture

Whipping the cream cheese makes the filling light and airy.

Sweetness

Sugar softens cream cheese’s bite while vanilla enhances the sweetness.

Stiff Peaks

The filling should hold its shape without becoming runny when baked.

Crafting the Creamy Filling

Mastering the Signature Braiding Technique

Braiding the long strands of dough into a perfect design takes practice:

Divide Dough

Divide chilled dough into 3 equal pieces to form each strand.

Roll Out Strands

Working one at a time, roll each piece into a long rope approximately 3 feet long.

Layer and Braid

Overlap the strands slightly, pinching ends together. Begin braiding, tucking ends under at finish.

Shape the Ring

Gently pull braid to stretch and connect ends together to form an oval.

Decorate Top

Brush with egg wash and cover with colored sugar for a sparkling finish.

Baking and Serving

Follow these final steps for king cake success:

Preheat Oven

Crank oven to 375°F to achieve maximum rise before browning.

Add Filling

Pipe filling into center of braided ring, leaving a border clear.

Proof before Baking

Let ring proof for 30 minutes as oven preheats to allow yeast one final rise.

Rotate Midway

Rotate cake halfway through baking to ensure even browning.

Display Proudly

Dust with more colored sugar and decorate with Mardi Gras beads and gems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if dough tears when braiding?

Pinch any tears together as you braid. Moistening fingers with water can help seal seams.

How long does filled cake last?

Store airtight at room temp up to 5 days. Freeze for longer storage.

Can I make mini king cakes?

Absolutely! Divide dough into smaller strands for individual-sized treats.

What if I don't have bread flour?

All-purpose flour works too but may not achieve quite the same rise and stretch.

Can I substitute filling?

While non-traditional, pie fillings like apple or cinnamon work well too.

Conclusion

With its decadent filling and stunning braided design, mastering Dong Phuong’s king cake is a rewarding baking journey. Share this iconic Carnival treat with family and friends and enjoy a sweet taste of New Orleans tradition.