8 Irresistible Mardi Gras Desserts to Celebrate Before Lent

Okay, you ready to really celebrate Mardi Gras the right way? Because let’s be honest, Mardi Gras is all about indulging, right? Before Lent kicks in, you need to go all out. And what better way to do that than with some seriously amazing desserts? Forget holding back – this is the time to treat yourself!

So, get ready to bake up a storm with these 8 Irresistible Mardi Gras Desserts to Celebrate Before Lent. We’re talking desserts that totally capture that wild, festive, over-the-top spirit of Mardi Gras. From the must-have King Cake to ridiculously rich chocolate creations and other sweet surprises, these are the treats that will make your Mardi Gras celebrations extra special. Seriously, these desserts are guaranteed to make your festivities a whole lot sweeter – and a whole lot more fun!

Bananas Foster Beignets

Bananas Foster Beignets are a delightful twist on traditional New Orleans beignets, combining the beloved classic with the rich flavors of bananas foster. These treats are fried to golden perfection, then dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with a luscious caramel sauce. With the warm, sweet taste of rum-soaked bananas, they bring a festive flair, making them a popular choice among unique Mardi Gras dessert ideas.

Easy to make and perfect for sharing at Mardi Gras parties, these beignets are sure to impress your guests. They embody the spirit of the French Quarter while being simple enough for anyone to whip up. Whether you’re looking for easy New Orleans-style sweets or simply want to indulge in some carnival-themed desserts, these beignets are a delightful addition to your Fat Tuesday celebrations.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, mashed banana, and vanilla. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined.
2. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until hot.
3. Fry the Beignets: Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, drop batter into the hot oil, frying a few at a time until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Serve: Dust the warm beignets with powdered sugar and drizzle with caramel sauce before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!

Mardi Gras Praline Cheesecake

Mardi Gras praline cheesecake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining creamy cheesecake with the rich flavors of pralines. This dessert is a showstopper, perfect for celebrating Fat Tuesday with its layers of flavor and texture. It boasts a smooth and velvety filling with a nutty crunch, making it a standout among festive king cake cupcakes and other colorful Mardi Gras desserts.

This cheesecake is surprisingly simple to make, allowing you to enjoy the festive spirit without spending all day in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a Mardi Gras party or simply indulging yourself, this recipe is sure to be one of the best pre-fasting desserts you can serve.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon bourbon (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan to form an even layer.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
4. Add the Heavy Cream: Mix in the heavy cream until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
5. Incorporate the Pecans: In a separate bowl, mix the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and bourbon (if using). Fold this mixture into the cheesecake batter.
6. Pour and Bake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust in the springform pan. Bake for about 55-60 minutes or until the center is set and slightly jiggly.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. Garnish with additional pecans and a drizzle of caramel if desired.

Bourbon Pecan King Cake Bread Pudding

Bourbon Pecan King Cake Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on the traditional King Cake, perfect for celebrating Mardi Gras. This rich dessert combines the flavors of a classic king cake with the comforting texture of Southern bread pudding, making it a satisfying treat for any gathering. The sweet bourbon caramel and crunchy pecans elevate the taste, while the colorful sprinkles add a festive touch.

Easy to make, this dessert is a fun addition to any Mardi Gras party. Whether you’re enjoying it during Fat Tuesday festivities or as a pre-Lent indulgence, it’s one of the best desserts for Mardi Gras parties. Plus, it’s a unique Mardi Gras dessert idea that will impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of day-old king cake, cubed
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Caramel sauce for drizzling
• Colorful sprinkles for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, bourbon, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the cubed king cake and chopped pecans to the mixture, gently folding until the bread is soaked.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the liquid.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted comes out clean.
6. Let it cool slightly before drizzling with caramel sauce and topping with colorful sprinkles. Serve warm and enjoy!

Purple, Green, And Gold Eclairs

These colorful purple, green, and gold eclairs are a festive treat that captures the spirit of Mardi Gras. With a light, airy choux pastry filled with delicious cream and topped with vibrant icing, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Not only are they eye-catching, but they’re also relatively easy to make, making them a fun activity for any Mardi Gras celebration.

Each bite of these eclairs delivers a delightful blend of flavors, reminiscent of traditional New Orleans desserts. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging in some pre-Lent sweets, these treats are sure to be a hit. Plus, their colorful appearance makes them one of the best desserts for Mardi Gras parties!

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Purple, green, and yellow food coloring
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (for icing)
• Sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1. Make the Choux Pastry: In a saucepan, bring water and butter to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in flour and salt until a dough forms. Let it cool slightly, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
2. Pipe the Eclairs: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the dough to a piping bag and pipe long strips onto parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they are golden and puffed.
3. Prepare the Filling: While the eclairs cool, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Once the eclairs are cool, cut them in half and fill with the whipped cream.
4. Make the Icing: In a bowl, mix powdered sugar with milk and divide into three portions. Color one portion purple, another green, and leave the last one yellow. Dip the tops of the eclairs in the icing and decorate with sprinkles.
5. Serve: Let the icing set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy these festive eclairs at your Mardi Gras celebration!

Creole Cream Cheese Ice Cream

Creole cream cheese ice cream is a delightful twist on traditional ice cream, packed with rich, tangy flavor that’s sure to impress. This creamy treat is perfect for celebrating Mardi Gras with its unique taste and smooth texture, making it a standout among festive Fat Tuesday treats.

It’s surprisingly simple to whip up at home, so you can enjoy a taste of New Orleans without any fuss. Pair it with colorful Mardi Gras desserts like king cake or serve it alongside beignet bites with praline sauce for an unforgettable dessert experience!

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup Creole cream cheese (or regular cream cheese, softened)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Sprinkles for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and Creole cream cheese. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
2. Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and lemon juice. Mix until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
4. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours to firm up.
5. When ready to serve, scoop into bowls, sprinkle with festive sprinkles, and enjoy your delicious Creole cream cheese ice cream!

Beignet Bites With Praline Sauce

Beignet bites with praline sauce are delightful little treats that capture the essence of Mardi Gras in every bite. These soft, pillowy pastries are dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with a rich, buttery praline sauce that adds a touch of sweetness and a hint of crunch from the pecans. They make for an easy Mardi Gras dessert recipe, perfect for those who want to indulge without spending all day in the kitchen.

These easy-to-make carnival treats bring together the classic flavors of New Orleans, making them a unique addition to any Mardi Gras celebration. Whether you’re hosting a Fat Tuesday party or just looking for the best pre-Lent sweets to enjoy, these beignet bites are sure to please your guests. Pair them with coffee or serve them alongside other traditional New Orleans desserts for a festive spread!

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring until just combined.
2. Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
3. Fry the Beignets: Using a spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil, frying a few at a time to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes, turning until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Make the Praline Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt brown sugar and heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth. Add chopped pecans and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Serve: Dust the warm beignet bites with powdered sugar and drizzle with praline sauce before serving warm.

Cajun Spiced Chocolate Truffles

Cajun spiced chocolate truffles are a delightful twist on traditional chocolate treats, blending rich chocolate with a hint of Cajun heat. The smooth, creamy filling is enhanced with spices that create an unexpected flavor profile, making each bite a little adventure. These truffles are not only delicious but also simple to make, perfect for those looking to whip up a festive Fat Tuesday treat without too much fuss.

These truffles are an excellent addition to your Mardi Gras celebrations, adding a unique flair alongside typical favorites like king cakes or mini Mardi Gras cheesecakes. They are sure to impress your guests while also satisfying your sweet tooth before Lent. Enjoy them at your next gathering as part of a selection of colorful Mardi Gras desserts!

Ingredients

• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
2. Melt the Chocolate: Add the chopped chocolate to the saucepan and let it sit for a minute. Stir until smooth and fully melted.
3. Add Spices: Stir in Cajun seasoning and vanilla extract until well combined. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
4. Chill: Once cooled, cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for about 2 hours or until firm.
5. Form Truffles: Use a small scoop or spoon to portion out the chocolate mixture. Roll into balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Coat: In separate bowls, mix cocoa powder and powdered sugar. Roll each truffle in the cocoa powder or powdered sugar to coat.
7. Serve: Allow the truffles to set in the refrigerator before serving, and enjoy your easy New Orleans-style sweets!

Mardi Gras Moon Pies With Marshmallow Filling

Mardi Gras Moon Pies with marshmallow filling are a delightful treat that captures the essence of Fat Tuesday celebrations. These sweet, round cookies are sandwiched with a fluffy marshmallow center and coated in chocolate, making them a delicious indulgence that’s hard to resist.

Easy to make, these moon pies offer a fun twist on traditional Mardi Gras desserts. They’re perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a festive snack while you prepare for the festivities. With their colorful presentation and delightful taste, they make a fantastic addition to your collection of easy Mardi Gras dessert recipes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup marshmallow fluff
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, then gradually add the dry ingredients until well combined.
2. Shape the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into small balls and flatten them into rounds. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each.
3. Bake the Cookies: Bake for about 10-12 minutes, until firm. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Fill the Cookies: Once the cookies are cool, spread a generous dollop of marshmallow fluff on the flat side of half of the cookies. Top with the other half to create sandwiches.
5. Coat in Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with vegetable oil. Dip each cookie sandwich into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Place them back on the wire rack to set.

Experience the Sweet Side of Mardi Gras
If you’re excited to try these Mardi Gras dessert recipes or want to find local businesses offering festive treats, check out our dessert directory to discover small businesses near you. Supporting local dessert shops means you can enjoy fresh, creative desserts made with passion and festive flair.

For those who love experimenting in the kitchen, why not share your own Mardi Gras dessert creations with us? Submit your recipe here and become part of our community of dessert enthusiasts celebrating Mardi Gras in the sweetest way possible.

And if you’re all about showing your love for desserts in style, don’t forget to visit our shop! We offer unique churro-themed apparel and foodie-inspired clothing, perfect for adding a festive twist to your wardrobe.

These 8 irresistible Mardi Gras desserts are your ticket to celebrating the season with flavor and fun. From vibrant colors to decadent flavors, these treats are all about embracing the spirit of Mardi Gras and savoring every bite before Lent arrives.

At Cream Filled Churros, we’re here to inspire your next baking adventure. Try these delicious Mardi Gras dessert recipes and make your celebrations as festive and flavorful as possible!