Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup warm water and the active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes frothy and bubbly.

Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.

Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, heat the milk until it’s warm but not hot (around 110°F). Add the butter and stir until it melts. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Make the dough: Add the yeast mixture and the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together.

Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.

Let it rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Mix the cinnamon filling: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Add the softened butter and mix until it’s a smooth, spreadable paste.

Roll out the dough: Once your dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

Spread the filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges.

Roll and shape: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the edges to seal it.

Form the ring: Carefully shape the dough into a ring by bringing the ends together and pinching them. Transfer the ring to a greased baking sheet, making sure it’s evenly spaced.

Cover the ring with a clean towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise ensures your cake will be fluffy and light.

Preheat the oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake the cake: Once the dough has risen, bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

While your king cake is cooling, make the cream cheese frosting:

Beat together the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, then add milk a little at a time until you reach your desired frosting consistency.

Frost the cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.

Add the sprinkles: Decorate with purple, green, and gold sprinkles to make it look as festive as it tastes! And don’t forget to hide the baby figurine (if you’re following the tradition)!