KING CAKE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD

Celebrate Mardi Gras in the King Cake Capital of the World—Jefferson Parish!

Jefferson Parish, known as the "King Cake Capital of the World," offers endless opportunities to indulge in this favorite Mardi Gras dessert.

With a rich tradition and a sheer volume of king cakes produced annually, the parish is home to numerous renowned bakeries, crafting treats that range from classic cinnamon-filled cakes to adventurous flavors like praline or cream cheese.

The Jefferson Parish Interactive King Cake Map makes it easy to discover the best bakeries and hidden gems, guiding you to your perfect king cake. These bakeries ship their creations worldwide, spreading Mardi Gras cheer far beyond Louisiana, and their dedication to perfecting this festive dessert cements Jefferson Parish as the ultimate destination for king cake lovers.

January 6 marks the start of Carnival season in Louisiana and the time when king cakes make their grand return. Known as Twelfth Night, this day celebrates the Feast of the Epiphany in the Catholic faith, but for many, the day is the official start of king cake season!  Use the map below to find all  of the Jefferson Parish king cake bakeries:

History of King Cakes

King cakes have a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Early tribes celebrated surviving winter by baking a crown-shaped cake with the previous year’s wheat, hiding a seed, bean, or nut inside. Later, the Romans adopted a similar custom, choosing a festival king by drawing lots. By the 4th century, the Catholic Church linked these traditions to the Feast of the Epiphany, celebrating the Magi’s visit to the Christ Child.

In 17th and 18th-century Europe, the "Roi de la Fève" (King of the Bean) was a popular celebration, featured in art, literature, and England’s “Twelfth Cakes.” French settlers brought this tradition to New Orleans, where Creole families enjoyed the gateau des rois (king cake) during Twelfth Night festivities. The connection between king cakes and Mardi Gras became official in 1870 when the Twelfth Night Revelers hosted their first parade and ball.

oday’s king cakes are a delicious centerpiece of Mardi Gras celebrations. The oval-shaped brioche dough, flavored with cinnamon and topped with purple, green, and gold sugar, hides a small plastic baby inside. According to tradition, whoever finds the baby buys the next cake or hosts the next party. True enthusiasts won’t touch a king cake before Twelfth Night!

By the 21st century, over a million king cakes were enjoyed each year in Louisiana, with an additional 75,000 shipped across the country, spreading the joy of this sweet tradition far and wide.

Bead Dog Sculptures

Brightly colored Mardi Gras Bead Dog statues are scattered throughout Jefferson Parish and New Orleans, offering a unique blend of art, culture, and a good cause. Inspired by bead dogs crafted from Mardi Gras beads by Louisiana schoolchildren, these whimsical sculptures are part of the Louisiana SPCA’s "Paws on Parade" public art project. The initiative raises awareness for animal welfare, supports local artists, and beautifies the community. These vibrant statues not only celebrate creativity but also make fantastic photo opportunities, so be sure to snap a picture when you spot one!

Discover More King Cakes

Don't see your favorite?

These beloved bakeries aren’t on the official map just yet, but they’re serving up some of the best King Cakes around.

• Hubig's Pies

• Pigeon Catering