One of the most popular foods during Mardi Gras is the king cake. The tradition makes its way to Louisville and beyond, as Fat Tuesday approaches. Adrienne & Company Bakery and Cafe's Adrienne Holland and brother Bernie Pasquantino are getting in the spirit with their own version of this Mardi Gras favorite.
The tradition of king cake dates back to the Middle Ages when a popular devotion during Christmas was placed on the Three Wise Men (or Kings) who followed the North Star to find Christ. The twelfth night after the birth of Christ marks the end of Christmas and the celebration of Epiphany. Thus, Twelfth Night in some cultures became a time for pageants and giving special presents to children. Along with gifts came the celebratory cake, or king cake.
Today's king cake is a confection made of braided Danish pastry, laced with cinnamon. It is always iced in the Mardi Gras colors of purple (justice), green (faith) and gold (power). Hidden in each king cake is a tiny plastic baby or a bean. The person who finds the baby or bean must buy the next king cake or host the next party. Contemporary king cakes are often filled with cream cheese, fruit fillings, such as apple or strawberry, and other fillings.
Adrienne & Co. Bakery and Café
129 W. Court Ave.
Jeffersonville, IN 47130
Phone: (812) 282-2665
Fax: (877) 648-4329
