Cream Cheese King Cake Delight

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Cream Cheese King Cake Delight.

1. Step 1

   To start your delicious journey, grab a large saucepan and set it over medium-low heat.

2. Step 2

   In this pan, combine sour cream, 1/3 cup of sugar, butter, and a pinch of salt.

3. Step 3

   Stir gently until the butter melts, which should take about 5 minutes.

4. Step 4

   Once melted, remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool down to a warm 100 to 110 degrees F (38 to 43 degrees C), which will take roughly 15 minutes.

5. Step 5

   While that cools, take a 1-cup glass measuring cup and mix together warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar.

6. Step 6

   Let this sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes creamy and frothy.

7. Step 7

   Now, in the bowl of a heavy-duty electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine your cooled sour cream mixture, 2 cups of bread flour, the yeast mixture, and the beaten eggs.

8. Step 8

   Beat everything together at medium speed until it’s smooth, which should take about a minute.

9. Step 9

   Then, reduce the speed to low and gradually add in 4 more cups of flour, mixing until the dough starts to come together.

10. Step 10

    Next, turn the dough out onto a clean surface that’s been dusted with 1/4 cup of flour.

11. Step 11

    Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, adding the remaining 1/2 cup of flour in 2-tablespoon increments until the dough is smooth and elastic.

12. Step 12

    It should feel tacky but should easily release from the surface.

13. Step 13

    Once you’ve achieved that perfect texture, place the dough in a well-greased bowl, turning it to coat the top.

14. Step 14

    Cover the bowl and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which will take about 45 minutes to an hour.

15. Step 15

    While the dough is rising, let’s whip up the filling! In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugars, cinnamon, and vanilla using an electric mixer on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy.

16. Step 16

    Then, mix in the egg until everything is well combined and set this aside.

17. Step 17

    When your dough has risen beautifully, gently punch it down and divide it in half.

18. Step 18

    Roll one half out into a 22x12-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface, keeping the other half covered to prevent it from drying out.

19. Step 19

    Spread half of your luscious cream cheese filling over the rectangle, making sure to leave a 1-inch border around the edges.

20. Step 20

    Sprinkle 1/2 cup of pecans on top for that delightful crunch.

21. Step 21

    Now, carefully roll up the dough starting from one of the long edges, creating a lovely log.

22. Step 22

    Place this rolled dough seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

23. Step 23

    Bring the ends together to form a ring, moistening them with a little water and pinching to seal.

24. Step 24

    Repeat this process with the remaining dough, filling, and pecans.

25. Step 25

    Cover both rings and let them rise in a warm place until they double in size again, about 45 minutes to an hour.

26. Step 26

    While you wait, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

27. Step 27

    Once the dough rings have risen, uncover them and pop them into the preheated oven.

28. Step 28

    Bake until they turn a gorgeous deep golden brown, which should take about 25 minutes.

29. Step 29

    After baking, allow the cakes to cool completely on wire racks for about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

30. Step 30

    Now, let’s make that irresistible glaze! In a large bowl, stir together confectioners' sugar, melted butter, and vanilla.

31. Step 31

    Gradually mix in milk until you achieve a pourable consistency, adding more milk one teaspoon at a time if needed.

32. Step 32

    Finally, pour the glaze evenly over your cooled cakes and sprinkle with sparkling sugars, alternating colors to create beautiful bands.

33. Step 33

    Enjoy the delightful aroma and the joy of sharing these scrumptious treats with family and friends!.