Dong Phuong King Cake Recipe

Chef Nora Benson

18 Jul, 2023

Delicious Dong Phuong King Cake Recipe: A Fusion of Vietnamese Flavors in a New Orleans Favorite

Dong Phuong King Cake

Publisher: Lofty Recipes
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Category: Dessert
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 10
Calories: 300 calories

About this recipe

The Dong Phuong King Cake is a delightful pastry that has its roots in the Dong Phuong Bakery, nestled in the vibrant city of New Orleans. This cake is a fusion of Vietnamese and New Orleans culinary traditions, bringing together the best of both worlds.

Imagine a soft and slightly sweet dough, made with love and care. It's enriched with butter, milk, and a touch of vanilla extract, creating a tender and flavorful base. As you take a bite, you'll notice a gentle tanginess that comes from the yeast, giving the cake its light and airy texture.

But the real magic happens with the filling. Picture a luscious mixture of shredded coconut, sugar, water, butter, and a dash of vanilla extract. It's cooked to perfection, becoming a tropical paradise of flavors. The sweetened condensed milk adds a creamy and indulgent touch that makes each bite truly heavenly.

To top it all off, the Dong Phuong King Cake is adorned with sesame seeds. They add a subtle nutty flavor and create a beautiful contrast against the golden-brown exterior. It's like a crown of deliciousness, fit for a king or queen!

When you serve the Dong Phuong King Cake, it's not just about the taste—it's about the whole experience. The cake becomes a centerpiece of celebration, whether it's during Mardi Gras or any gathering with loved ones. It's meant to be shared, enjoyed, and savored together.

So, gather your friends and family around, slice the cake into wedges, and let the joy unfold. Each bite is a delightful journey through Vietnamese-inspired flavors, the sweetness of coconut, the crunch of roasted peanuts, and the love poured into its creation.

Recipe origin and background

The Dong Phuong King Cake recipe is associated with the Dong Phuong Bakery, located in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.

The Dong Phuong Bakery is known for its delicious Vietnamese pastries, and the Dong Phuong King Cake has become a popular variation of the traditional King Cake typically enjoyed during the Mardi Gras season.

The Dong Phuong Bakery was established by the Le family, who emigrated from Vietnam to the United States in the 1970s. They brought their culinary expertise and Vietnamese baking techniques with them, which they incorporated into their bakery's offerings.

Over the years, Dong Phuong Bakery gained a reputation for their high-quality pastries, including their King Cakes.

The Dong Phuong King Cake differs from the traditional New Orleans-style King Cake in its filling and flavors. It incorporates Vietnamese-inspired ingredients such as shredded coconut and roasted peanuts, giving it a unique twist. The cake is typically topped with sesame seeds and has a drizzle of glaze, adding to its visual appeal.

The Dong Phuong King Cake has gained popularity among locals and visitors alike, and it has become a sought-after delicacy during the Mardi Gras season in New Orleans. Its unique flavors and Vietnamese influence make it a standout variation of the traditional King Cake.

Why try this Dong Phuong King Cake recipe?

Unique Flavor: The Dong Phuong King Cake offers a unique flavor experience compared to traditional King Cakes. The combination of ingredients like coconut, roasted peanuts, and sweetened condensed milk creates a delightful fusion of Vietnamese-inspired flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Cultural Fusion: Trying the Dong Phuong King Cake recipe allows you to explore the cultural fusion between Vietnamese and New Orleans cuisine. It's a beautiful blend of traditions that showcases the culinary diversity and creativity found in both cultures.
Homemade Delight: Making the Dong Phuong King Cake from scratch allows you to enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious pastry right in your own kitchen. Baking it yourself allows you to have control over the ingredients, ensuring a fresh and homemade taste.
Impressive Presentation: The Dong Phuong King Cake is visually appealing, with its golden-brown exterior, sesame seed topping, and drizzle of glaze. Serving this cake to your family and friends will surely impress them with both its taste and appearance.
Festive Occasions: The Dong Phuong King Cake is perfect for festive occasions such as Mardi Gras celebrations or any gathering where you want to enjoy a special treat. It can become a centerpiece dessert that adds a touch of cultural flair to your festivities.
Sharing and Tradition: The tradition of sharing a King Cake with loved ones is a wonderful way to celebrate and create lasting memories. By trying the Dong Phuong King Cake recipe, you can embrace and share in this joyful tradition with your family and friends.

So, if you're looking to expand your culinary horizons, indulge in unique flavors, and create a memorable dessert, the Dong Phuong King Cake recipe is definitely worth a try.

What does Dong Phuong King Cake taste like?

The Dong Phuong King Cake has a distinct and delicious flavor profile. The combination of its various ingredients creates a unique taste that sets it apart from the traditional King Cake.

The cake itself is soft and slightly sweet, with a tender crumb that comes from the dough being enriched with butter and milk. The yeast in the dough gives it a subtle, pleasant tanginess. The sweetened condensed milk that is spread over the dough adds a creamy and indulgent element.

The filling of the Dong Phuong King Cake is where its flavors truly shine. The mixture of shredded coconut, sugar, water, butter, and vanilla extract creates a luscious, tropical taste. The coconut brings a hint of sweetness and a delightful chewiness to each bite, while the vanilla extract adds a warm and aromatic note. The roasted peanuts sprinkled on top provide a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.

The sesame seeds sprinkled on the cake's surface not only add a decorative touch but also contribute a subtle, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste experience.

When combined, the flavors of the Dong Phuong King Cake are a harmonious blend of sweetness, creaminess, tropical coconut, and nuttiness. It's a delightful treat that offers a unique twist on the traditional King Cake and is sure to please anyone with a love for Vietnamese-inspired flavors.

What is in Dong Phuong King Cake?

All-Purpose Flour: This versatile flour is commonly used in baking and provides structure to the dough.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and other components of the king cake.
Active Dry Yeast: A leavening agent that helps the dough rise and gives it a light texture.
Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and flavor to the dough when melted and incorporated.
Warm Milk: Helps activate the yeast and adds moisture to the dough for a tender texture.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a pleasant, aromatic flavor to the dough.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dough and balances the sweetness.
Eggs: Contribute moisture, structure, and richness to the dough.
Roasted Peanuts: Finely chopped peanuts that add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the filling.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: A thick, sweet milk that adds creaminess and richness to the filling.
Sesame Seeds: Sprinkled on top of the king cake for a visually appealing touch and a subtle nutty flavor.
Shredded Coconut: Provides a tropical and chewy element to the filling, adding a unique flavor and texture.
Water: Used in combination with sugar, butter, and vanilla to create the coconut filling.
Powdered Sugar: Used for making the glaze, which adds a sweet and decorative touch to the king cake.
Milk: Combined with powdered sugar to create the glaze and adjust its consistency.

Equipment required for this recipe

Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl is needed to combine the ingredients and knead the dough. A stand mixer with a dough hook attachment can be used as a substitute.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the ingredients. Using kitchen scales can be an alternative for precise measurements.
Baking Sheet: A flat baking sheet or tray is used to place the king cake for baking. A round cake pan or a baking dish can be used as a substitute.
Parchment Paper: Used to line the baking sheet and prevent sticking. Greasing the baking sheet or using a silicone baking mat can be an alternative.
Rolling Pin: Needed for rolling out the dough into a rectangular shape. A sturdy bottle or cylindrical object can be used as a substitute.
Saucepan: Used to cook the coconut filling. A small pot or skillet can be used as an alternative.
Pastry Brush: Used for brushing the beaten egg onto the king cake before baking. A clean kitchen brush or even the back of a spoon can be used as a substitute.
Wire Rack: A wire rack is helpful for cooling the king cake after baking. If you don't have one, you can place the cake on a clean, heat-resistant surface to cool.

How to make Dong Phuong King Cake

Indulge in the delightful Dong Phuong King Cake recipe, a fusion of Vietnamese flavors in a New Orleans favorite. A unique and delicious treat to share!

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup warm milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
1/2 cup finely chopped roasted peanuts
1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup sesame seeds

For the filling:

1 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Food coloring (optional)

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
Add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine.
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a saucepan, combine the shredded coconut, sugar, water, butter, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a rectangular shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
Spread the sweetened condensed milk over each rectangle of dough. Then, spread the coconut filling evenly on top. Sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the coconut filling.
Roll up each rectangle tightly, starting from the longer side, to form a log. Pinch the ends to seal.
Place the two logs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and shape them into a circle, joining the ends together. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brush the risen dough with a beaten egg. Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the top.
Bake the king cake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
While the king cake is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl. If desired, divide the glaze into separate bowls and add food coloring to create different colors.
Once the king cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top in a decorative pattern.

How to serve Dong Phuong King Cake

Once the Dong Phuong King Cake has cooled completely, transfer it to a serving platter or cake stand.
Optionally, you can dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal. Sift a light layer of powdered sugar over the cake using a fine-mesh sieve.
Slice the king cake into individual servings using a sharp knife. Traditionally, it is served in wedges, similar to a round cake.
Place the sliced pieces of Dong Phuong King Cake on individual dessert plates or a serving tray.
Arrange the additional toppings or accompaniments on the plates or on a separate platter for guests to help themselves.
Finally, invite your guests to enjoy the Dong Phuong King Cake by serving them a slice with their chosen accompaniments. The cake can be eaten with a fork or even enjoyed by hand.

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 829 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Dong Phuong King Cake, Dong Phuong King Cake Recipe, Recipe, Easy, Homemade, Top rated

What to serve Dong Phuong King Cake with

Hot Beverages: Serve the Dong Phuong King Cake with hot beverages like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. The warm and comforting drinks complement the sweet flavors of the cake.
Fresh Fruits: Add a refreshing touch by serving a side of fresh fruits alongside the king cake. Sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or tropical fruits like pineapple or mango can provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Dollop a generous spoonful of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream, such as vanilla or coconut, next to each slice of cake. The creamy and cool accompaniments balance the flavors and provide a luxurious treat.
Fruit Sauces or Coulis: Drizzle a fruit sauce or coulis over the cake slices for added flavor and visual appeal. Raspberry, strawberry, or passion fruit sauces work well with the Dong Phuong King Cake.
Chocolate Ganache: If you're a chocolate lover, serve the Dong Phuong King Cake with a rich and velvety chocolate ganache. Drizzle it over the cake or serve it on the side for dipping.
Nuts or Toasted Coconut: Sprinkle some chopped nuts, such as toasted almonds or pecans, over the cake for added crunch and nuttiness. Toasted coconut flakes can also be a delicious and complementary topping.
Mardi Gras Decorations: Since the Dong Phuong King Cake is often enjoyed during Mardi Gras, you can decorate the serving platter or table with festive Mardi Gras-themed decorations, such as colorful beads, masks, or small figurines.

These accompaniments can elevate the Dong Phuong King Cake experience and provide a variety of flavors and textures to enjoy alongside the cake. Choose one or a combination of these options based on your preferences and the occasion.

My recommendations and tips

Read the recipe thoroughly: Before you begin, read through the entire recipe to familiarize yourself with the steps and ingredients. This will help you plan and ensure you have everything you need.
Prepare your ingredients in advance: Measure and prepare all the ingredients before you start making the dough. This will make the process smoother and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
Ensure proper yeast activation: Make sure your yeast is active by dissolving it in warm milk and sugar. The mixture should become frothy within a few minutes. If it doesn't froth, it might indicate that the yeast is inactive, and you'll need to start with fresh yeast.
Be patient during the rising stages: The dough needs time to rise, so be patient and allow it to double in size during both rising periods. Find a warm, draft-free spot for the dough to rise, which helps promote a good rise.
Properly shape the king cake: When shaping the dough into a circle, make sure to securely pinch the ends together to seal them. This will prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Customize the flavors: Feel free to customize the filling or experiment with different flavors. You can add additional ingredients such as raisins, chocolate chips, or flavored extracts to the filling to suit your taste preferences.
Get creative with the glaze: Instead of a simple white glaze, you can divide it into separate bowls and add food coloring to create different colored glazes. This adds a fun and festive touch, especially if you're making the cake for a specific occasion.
Decorate and serve with flair: Once the cake is baked and cooled, don't forget to add the finishing touches. Dust it with powdered sugar, drizzle the glaze in a decorative pattern, and consider garnishing with colorful sprinkles or festive decorations to make it visually appealing.
Enjoy and share: The Dong Phuong King Cake is best enjoyed with family and friends. Share it during celebrations or gatherings to create memorable moments and spread the joy of this delicious dessert.

Potential ingredients substitutes

All-Purpose Flour: You can substitute all-purpose flour with bread flour or pastry flour, although the texture of the final cake may vary slightly.
Granulated Sugar: You can use other types of granulated sweeteners like white cane sugar, coconut sugar, or brown sugar. Keep in mind that using different sugars may affect the taste and color of the cake.
Active Dry Yeast: Instant yeast can be used as a substitute for active dry yeast. However, keep in mind that the rising time may differ, so follow the package instructions for instant yeast.
Unsalted Butter: Salted butter can be used as a substitute for unsalted butter. Just be mindful of the overall saltiness of the recipe and adjust the salt accordingly.
Warm Milk: If you don't have warm milk, you can use warm water or a non-dairy milk substitute like almond milk or soy milk.
Vanilla Extract: If you don't have vanilla extract, you can use other extracts such as almond extract or coconut extract. These will impart a slightly different flavor to the cake.
Roasted Peanuts: Chopped almonds, pecans, or cashews can be used as a substitute for roasted peanuts, providing a similar crunchy texture and nuttiness.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: For a dairy-free option, you can use sweetened condensed coconut milk instead of sweetened condensed milk.
Sesame Seeds: If sesame seeds are not available, you can omit them or use other toppings like shredded coconut or slivered almonds for added texture.

Additional note

Storing and Serving Leftovers: If you have any leftover Dong Phuong King Cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can gently reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven before serving.
Variations and Customizations: While the recipe provided is a traditional Dong Phuong King Cake, feel free to get creative and add your own twists. You can experiment with different fillings, such as using different types of nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate. The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to make it your own.
Dietary Considerations: If you have specific dietary needs or preferences, you can adapt the recipe to accommodate them. For example, you can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version or substitute dairy products with non-dairy alternatives for a vegan option. Just ensure you choose suitable substitutes and adjust the recipe accordingly.
Recipe Scaling: If you need to adjust the serving size of the recipe, you can scale the ingredients accordingly. Keep in mind that baking times and rising times may need to be adjusted as well.
Presentation and Decorations: The Dong Phuong King Cake is often associated with festive occasions, especially Mardi Gras. Consider decorating the cake with colorful sprinkles, edible glitter, or Mardi Gras-themed decorations to enhance the visual appeal and match the occasion.
Tradition and Symbolism: In some traditions, a small plastic baby or a dried bean is hidden inside the cake before baking. The person who finds it in their slice is believed to have good luck or is designated as the one responsible for hosting the next gathering or providing the next king cake. If you decide to incorporate this tradition, be sure to inform your guests to avoid any accidental ingestion of the hidden object.

Final Remark

Impress your guests with the Dong Phuong King Cake recipe, a delightful fusion of Vietnamese and New Orleans flavors. Whether for Mardi Gras or any celebration, this unique treat will leave everyone craving for more. Enjoy the deliciousness and create unforgettable moments with this remarkable pastry!