Crawfish King Cake Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed to about 110°F
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange (optional for subtle citrus notes)
• 1 pound cooked and peeled Louisiana crawfish tails
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/4 cup diced bell peppers (preferably green for color and flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Colored sanding sugars in purple, green, and gold (about 1/4 cup each)