10 Facts About Mardis Gras’ History

These glazed and frosty pastries are a result of the Medieval Times, when Spanish, French, and Belgian cultures marked the 12th of December with sweets and gifts. Biblically, this was when kings visited the baby Jesus and brought gifts and sweets. This is where the “king” part of king cake gets its name. Today, the cakes can be fried and glazed with a mardi Gras color. To resemble a crown of kings, they are usually shaped and braided. Most cakes have a tiny figurine of a baby inside. The host of the next big party must locate the toy as tradition dictates.