Description
This King Cake Bubble Up is a festive, easy-to-make dessert inspired by the traditional Mardi Gras King Cake. Featuring fluffy cinnamon roll pieces baked in a creamy custard-like mixture and topped with vibrant purple, yellow, and green sprinkles, this dish brings the flavors and colors of New Orleans’ famous celebration right to your table. A fun surprise Baby Jesus figurine is hidden inside, making it perfect for parties and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Base
- 3 cans refrigerated Pillsbury cinnamon rolls
- Mist for pan: non-stick baking spray
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
Toppings
- Purple, yellow, green sprinkles or colored sugar
- Cinnamon roll icing (reserved from cinnamon roll cans)
- Baby Jesus figurine (for tradition, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly mist a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick baking spray to ensure easy removal of the baked cake.
- Prepare Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cinnamon roll cans and separate the rolls. Cut each cinnamon roll into 4 equal pieces, then place all the pieces evenly in the prepared casserole dish. Set aside the icing packets included with the rolls for later use.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together with an electric hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to combine. Finally, stir in the milk until you achieve a smooth custard-like batter.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the casserole dish. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the custard is set and the cinnamon rolls are golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Hide the Baby Jesus Figurine: When the cake is cool enough to handle, carefully use a knife to cut a small slit into the cake and slide the Baby Jesus figurine inside. Push the cake pieces back together so the figurine is hidden from view. This step is a traditional part of the King Cake celebration.
- Top with Icing and Sprinkles: Pour the reserved cinnamon roll icing over the warm cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula if needed. Decorate the top with festive Mardi Gras colored sprinkles—purple, yellow, and green—to complete the look and add a sweet crunch.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the King Cake Bubble Up and serve warm to enjoy the gooey, custardy cinnamon roll flavors and festive colors perfect for any Mardi Gras celebration or festive gathering.
Notes
- You can substitute the cream cheese with a lower-fat version to reduce calories.
- The Baby Jesus figurine is optional but adds a traditional Mardi Gras element; be sure to warn guests about it to avoid choking hazards.
- Use full-fat milk for a richer custard or replace with almond milk for a dairy alternative.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top before baking.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American