6 Simple Mardi Gras Desserts You Can Make at Home

Mardi Gras is a time for bold flavors, festive colors, and unforgettable treats. 6 simple Mardi Gras desserts you can make at home brings you easy, celebratory recipes that capture the spirit of this lively event. Whether you’re baking up a classic King Cake, mixing up some colorful pralines, or indulging in beignets, these fun desserts will bring the party straight to your kitchen.

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake with Whipped Cream

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a classic dessert that brings a delightful tropical twist to any celebration. With its moist cake base topped with sweet caramelized pineapple and a hint of maraschino cherry, this treat is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for Mardi Gras, it’s a simple dessert that captures the festive spirit and is a great addition to your list of easy Fat Tuesday desserts.

This cake is not only delicious but also incredibly straightforward to make, making it an ideal choice for both beginner-friendly Mardi Gras desserts and last-minute Mardi Gras desserts. The combination of flavors creates a lovely balance, and the vibrant colors make it a standout on any dessert table. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful cake!

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained
• Maraschino cherries
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Melt the butter in a 9×13 inch baking dish and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over it.
3. Arrange the pineapple slices over the brown sugar mixture and place a cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
4. In a mixing bowl, prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions, adding the eggs and water.
5. Pour the cake batter over the pineapple and cherries in the baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool for a few minutes, then carefully invert it onto a serving platter.
8. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Mardi Gras Cupcakes with Festive Toppers

Mardi Gras cupcakes are a delightful treat that packs flavor and fun into every bite. These bright and colorful desserts are perfect for the festive season, making them great for parties or family gatherings. With a moist cake base topped with creamy frosting, they embody the spirit of Mardi Gras with their vibrant purple, green, and gold colors.

This recipe is simple to follow, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to whip up some easy Fat Tuesday desserts. Even beginners can create these homemade Mardi Gras treats in no time, ensuring everyone can join in on the celebrations with these tasty delights!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Food coloring (purple, green, yellow)
• Frosting (store-bought or homemade)
• Mardi Gras toppers (mini masks, sprinkles)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk and vanilla until fully incorporated.
4. Divide the batter into three bowls. Dye one portion purple, one green, and leave the last one yellow.
5. Layer the colored batter in each cupcake liner, filling each about two-thirds full.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely.
7. Once cooled, frost your cupcakes and decorate with Mardi Gras toppers and sprinkles.

Creole Cream Cheese Cheesecake

Creole Cream Cheese Cheesecake is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, embodying the rich culinary traditions of Louisiana. This cheesecake showcases a smooth and creamy texture, with the unique tang of Creole cream cheese that sets it apart from regular cheesecakes. It’s perfect for those looking for simple Mardi Gras desserts that bring a taste of the Crescent City to their table.

This recipe is not only simple to make but also offers flexibility for those looking for quick Mardi Gras desserts. Topped with fresh berries or a fruit sauce, it becomes a festive addition to any celebration. Whether you’re planning a Mardi Gras party or just craving a slice of something sweet, this cheesecake is sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups Creole cream cheese
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup sour cream
• Fresh berries for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create the crust.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the Creole cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice until fully combined.
3. Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust in the springform pan. Bake for about 50 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
4. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool. After cooling, spread sour cream over the top and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
5. Before serving, top with fresh berries or your choice of fruit sauce for an added touch of color and flavor.

King Cake with Colorful Icing

King Cake is a delightful treat that captures the spirit of Mardi Gras with its vibrant colors and festive charm. This soft, sweet bread is typically filled with a cinnamon mixture and topped with a colorful icing that reflects the traditional Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold. It’s not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual feast, making it one of the best Mardi Gras desserts.

This cake is easy to make and perfect for beginners looking for simple Mardi Gras desserts. Whether you’re hosting a Fat Tuesday gathering or just treating yourself, this cake is a fun and delicious way to celebrate. Plus, it can easily be made ahead of time and decorated just before serving, making it a great option for last-minute Mardi Gras desserts!

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons milk (for icing)
• Food coloring (purple, green, and yellow)
• Optional: small plastic baby or trinket (for tradition)

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, remaining sugar, eggs, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and gradually stir in the flour until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead and Rise: Place the dough on a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes. Shape into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
4. Prepare the Filling: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, spread softened butter, and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly over it.
5. Shape the Cake: Roll the dough tightly and shape it into a circle. Seal the ends and place on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool.
7. Decorate: Mix powdered sugar and milk to create a thick icing. Divide into three bowls and color each with food coloring. Drizzle the icing over the cooled cake in stripes of purple, green, and yellow. If using, hide the plastic baby inside the cake before serving.

Chocolate-Covered Bourbon Balls

Chocolate-covered bourbon balls are a delightful treat perfect for Mardi Gras celebrations. These little bites pack a rich chocolate flavor combined with a hint of bourbon, making them a fun indulgence. They’re easy to make and require no baking, which makes them a hit for those looking for quick and easy Mardi Gras treats.

With a soft, fudgy center and a smooth chocolate coating, these balls are a great way to enjoy the festive spirit. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, allowing for stress-free party planning. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a taste of Mardi Gras at home, these sweet bites are sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 cup finely crushed vanilla wafers
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine crushed vanilla wafers, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, bourbon, and chopped pecans. Mix until everything is well combined.
2. Form the Balls: Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Chill: Refrigerate the balls for about 30 minutes to firm them up.
4. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips and vegetable oil together in 30-second intervals until smooth.
5. Coat the Balls: Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off. Place them back on the parchment-lined sheet.
6. Decorate: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with decorations of your choice.
7. Chill Again: Return the chocolate-covered balls to the fridge for about 20 minutes to set the chocolate.

Beignets with Powdered Sugar

Beignets are fluffy, pillowy pastries that are a true delight, especially during Mardi Gras! These Louisiana-inspired desserts are fried to golden perfection and are generously dusted with powdered sugar, making them sweet and irresistible. They’re light, airy, and just the right amount of indulgent, perfect for celebrating Fat Tuesday or any festive occasion.

Making beignets at home is simple and fun, requiring just a few basic ingredients. They’re a great option for anyone looking for quick Mardi Gras desserts that can wow your family and friends. Whether served as part of a larger spread of festive Mardi Gras dessert ideas or enjoyed on their own, these delicious treats are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Create the Dough: Stir in the melted butter, milk, and egg. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Beignets: Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut into squares or rectangles.
5. Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot over medium heat. Fry the beignets for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. Dust with Sugar: While still warm, generously dust the beignets with powdered sugar. Serve with a side of chocolate sauce or fruit preserves for dipping, if desired.

Celebrate Mardi Gras with Homemade Treats

If you’re excited to try these Mardi Gras desserts or want to find local bakeries offering festive treats, check out our dessert directory to discover small businesses near you. Supporting local shops means you can enjoy handcrafted sweets made with care and traditional ingredients.

For those who love making holiday desserts from scratch, why not share your best Mardi Gras recipes? Submit your recipe here and connect with a community of food lovers celebrating delicious traditions.

Mardi Gras is known for its rich, indulgent treats that bring a touch of New Orleans magic to the table. Whether you’re frying up golden beignets, layering a colorful trifle, or creating a festive take on a classic Southern dessert, these recipes will make your celebration even more special.

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At Creme Filled Churros, we’re here to make every occasion delicious. Try these 6 simple Mardi Gras desserts, and bring the spirit of the celebration into your home!