King Cake Crescent Rolls Recipe

It’s January, which means it’s time for King’s Cake! Admittedly, I just discovered King’s Cake a few years back- having grown up far, far away from New Orleans all the way in Nevada, it’s not exactly common here. But once I saw the beautifully decorated cakes and found out they had a hidden small plastic baby figure inside, I knew I had to try one. And it was delicious!

It’s hard to find King’s Cake where I live, so I decided to make my own- but with a twist- with this King’s Cake Crescent Rolls recipe! This easy recipe for individual king cake rolls puts a creative spin on the classic king’s cake by using store-bought crescent rolls as the perfect shortcut for getting these made quickly.

Inspired by the vibrant traditions of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, King’s Cake holds a special place in the hearts and celebrations of many- and this recipe makes it easier than ever to enjoy the tradition at home, no matter where you are. These are my take on mini king cakes- though unlike a real king cake I don’t include the baby {but you do you}.

The tradition of king’s cake traces its roots back to medieval Europe, where it was associated with the celebration of Epiphany on January 6th. Over time, this tradition evolved, and when French settlers brought it to Louisiana in the 18th century, it became deeply embedded in the culture of New Orleans and the wider Mardi Gras festivities.

Today, King’s Cake is an iconic part of the Carnival season, enjoyed from Twelfth Night (January 6th) through Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras Day)- although different regions prepare and bake them differently! This is definitely in the running for the easiest king cake recipe, though.

What is the significance of the purple, green and gold colors in the King Cake?

Just like many holiday traditions, these colors have specific meanings. Purple symbolizes justice, the green colors symbolize faith, and gold represents power. This color combination makes up the traditional colors of Mardi Gras!

Can I use homemade crescent dough instead of store bought dough?

Of course! I prefer using store bought Pillsbury dough sheets because it cuts down on a lot of time and even makes this recipe easier for the kids to help me make. If you’d prefer to make your own, however, you can definitely do that. Use your favorite recipe, just make sure it’s pretty similar in texture to the store-bought kind and you should be all set. {If you prefer a thicker dough, you’ll need to add more bake time; thinner dough will require less time.}

Do I need to use a specific type of vanilla extract?

You can use any kind, but I generally recommend using pure vanilla extract if possible for the best taste and quality. It can be quite a bit more expensive than the imitation vanilla extract, but if you shop at stores like HomeGoods or T.J. Maxx they often have pure vanilla extract at an absolutely great price. {You can even grab this one on -affiliate link- Amazon for cheaper than most grocery stores!}

Can I adjust the recipe to make it a little less sweet?

One of the easiest ways to adjust the recipe’s sweetness is to cut the powdered sugar in the cream cheese mixture. Just keep in mind that the sugar doesn’t just add flavor but changes the consistency too, so don’t skip it entirely! If you need to for health reasons or just REALLY don’t like sweet stuff, add additional cream cheese in it’s place until you get the consistency you prefer.

Can I use a different type of icing or glaze for this recipe?

Yes! You can make a cream cheese glaze, lemon glaze, maple glaze, or even a chocolate drizzle. Feel free to get creative!

Where can I find purple, green and gold sugar sprinkles?

I can usually find a variety of sugar sprinkles at my local craft store, but if you can’t find the right colors there you can grab them here on Amazon! {Purple sugar sprinkles, green sugar sprinkles, gold sugar sprinkles} You may also be able to find them at specialty baking stores if you have one of those near you.

Can I make these ahead of time for a party or event?

Yes! If you’re hosting a Mardi Gras celebration or just want to serve these at your next gathering, here’s how to make them ahead:

Prepare and Assemble: Follow the recipe up to the point of rolling the crescent rolls and placing them on the lined baking sheet. Stop before baking.

Freezing {Optional}: If you’re making these FAR in advance, or are making a second batch with the intent to freeze them, this is where you’ll do that. Place the assembled, unbaked rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. The rolls can be stored in the freezer in this way for 1-2 months.

Thawing: If you chose to freeze them, thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking to prevent them from getting soggy.

Baking: Preheat the oven and bake them according to the recipe instructions {below}. They might take a little extra time if they’re still cold or frozen, so be sure to check that they’re done.

Icing and Sprinkles: Wait until you’re serving the rolls to apply the icing and sprinkles so they’re still fresh!

How can I make these for an event besides Mardi Gras?

If you’re not celebrating Mardi Gras but still want to try these rolls, here are some other great uses for this simple recipe:

Brunch: These make a delicious brunch addition with the sweet and creamy filling!

Baby showers: Instead of using purple, green, and gold, use different colors like blue or pink {or whatever the baby shower colors are!} to decorate them instead.

Holidays: You can definitely use these for other holidays- use red and green for Christmas, pink for Valentine’s Day, whatever you want!

Tea Parties: Hosting a tea party? {Can I come?} These would be a fun and sweet addition to your spread.

How should I store any leftover crescent rolls? Can I reheat them?

You can definitely store your leftovers- here’s how to do it:

Cool: Allow your rolls to cool completely to room temperature before storing.

Store: Place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to prevent them from drying out. 

If enjoying within 2-3 days: They will require refrigeration due to the cream cheese.

If enjoying after 3 days: The crescent rolls can definitely be frozen for later- I’d recommend wrapping them individually or in layers with parchment paper and placing them in a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn. The rolls can be stored in the freezer for 1-2 months.

Thaw: If you’ve frozen them, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat by preheating the oven to 300, placing the rolls on a baking sheet, and warming for a few minutes until they’ve reached the desired temperature. You CAN microwave them, but they may end up soggy, so I recommend using the oven.

What supplies do you need to make these Delicious King Cake Crescent Rolls?

To make this easy king cake recipe, you’ll need:
{These links are affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission on your purchase at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!}

• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Small bowl
• Wire rack
• Purple sugar sprinkles
• Green sugar sprinkles
• Gold sugar sprinkles

Step by Step Guide

Ready to bake? Grab the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post and come back here to get started!

Preheat oven to 375 degrees and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate crescent rolls.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine 4 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract with a whisk until smooth and well combined.

In a second bowl, stir together the brown sugar and cinnamon.

Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese filling mixture over the top of each crescent roll triangle. Top with a layer of cinnamon brown sugar.

Roll each crescent roll up and place it on the lined baking sheet. Bake the rolls for 10 to 12 minutes, until golden brown.

Allow the crescent rolls to cool completely on a wire rack, then heat the icing in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds to soften.

Spread a layer of icing over the top of each crescent roll and immediately decorate with purple, green, and gold sugar sprinkles.

Hungry for More?

Want more delicious crescent roll recipes? Try these:

• Pumpkin Pie Crescent Rolls
• Apple Butter Twists
• Cinnamon Crescent Rolls
• Easter Bunny Crescent Rolls
• Taco Pinwheels
• Peach Cobbler Casserole
• S’mores Crescent Rolls
• Taco Crescent Rolls
• Brown Sugar Cinnamon Apple Crescent Rolls