Get ready for a unique confluence of holidays. Ash Wednesday and Valentine’s Day are set to fall on the same day this year. As you prepare for this special day, there is one tradition you might want to consider – indulging in a King Cake.
The King Cake is steeped in history, originating from the biblical story of the three kings who brought gifts to Baby Jesus. Often, a plastic baby is hidden inside the cake, and tradition dictates that the person who finds the baby must buy the cake the following year. It’s a sweet, colorful treat associated with Mardi Gras and a must-have for those celebrating this joyous occasion.
At Graeter’s bakery on Ludlow Street in Cincinnati, the process to make the King Cake is nothing short of remarkable. It takes hours, sometimes days, to perfect this delectable dessert. The Lead Baker, Anthony Schwier, shared that they will have completed about 375 large and 1200 small King Cakes by the time Tuesday rolls around.
Schwier, who has been with Graeter’s for 20 years, takes pride in the intricate process of making their King Cakes. With 16 ingredients in their Danish dough, they put together 500 pounds at a time and fill it with homemade cinnamon butter filling. Then, the dough is sliced into strips and braided together, setting their bakery apart from others.
Schwier also explained that the unique braiding process adds to the authentic appeal of their King Cakes, allowing the icing to perfectly sink down inside the braids. After proofing and baking, the cakes are topped with a colorful sugar mix and little candied cherries, making them truly stand out.
As you savor the flavors of this delightful cake, you can also join in the tradition of hiding a plastic baby along with a necklace and a coin inside the cake. At Graeter’s, these cakes are a hot commodity and often sell out quickly.
Next time you’re in Cincinnati, don’t miss the chance to try one of these iconic King Cakes from Graeter’s bakery. Their dedicated bakers put their heart and soul into creating these beautiful delicacies, and the end result is truly satisfying. Whether you’re celebrating Mardi Gras, Valentine’s Day, or simply enjoying a sweet treat, the King Cake from Graeter’s is a delightful addition to any occasion.
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