Kid Friendly Way to Make a King Cake

In most parts of the US, the King Cake is associated with Mardi Gras or "Carnival" season. THis is the pre-lenten season which culminates on "Fat Tuesday", or Mardi Gras. The following day is Ash Wednesday when many people pledge to deny themselves something until Easter.

King Cakes are delicious, and can range from the very basic dough, spices and frosting to elaborate ones full of all sorts of fillings. My personal favorite comes from a bakery in Picayune, MS named Paul's Pastry Shop. It is stuffed with three different types of berry filling, and can be shipped overnight to anywhere in the US. MMM mmm mmm!

If you want to start this celebratory tradition with your own young children, there is a simple way to make one, and the little ones will look forward to it every year!

What you'll need:

1. One purchased tray of iced cinnamon rolls
2. One bottle each of yellow, green and purple sprinkles
3. Cream cheese, berry filling, or any other filling (Optional)

On a platter, separate then place individual rolls in a circular shape, with edges touching.

If you want to, you can split the rolls and spread jam, filling, or cream cheese in the middle.

Sprinkle the various traditional Mardi Gras colors on the white icing to make it look like the traditional dessert. Slice and enjoy!