15 Mardi Gras Desserts Worthy of Throwing a Party
Fat Tuesday is the time to indulge in king cake and beignets.
Carnival season is here, and that means it's time to indulge! This festive time leading up to Lent is all about celebrating with delicious Mardi Gras foods, lively traditions, and of course, plenty of sweets. (Gotta get those in before you decide what to give up for Lent!) Just like any big holiday, there are classic Mardi Gras desserts that make the occasion even more special. From bourbon balls to fluffy beignets dusted with powdered sugar, these treats are the perfect way to get in the spirit. Whether you're hosting a party or just treating yourself at home, you can't go wrong with these freshly baked cookies, cakes made from scratch, and homemade pies that are all fit for celebrating.
For some, it wouldn't be Mardi Gras without king cake. With its beautiful gold, purple, and green design, the king cake is a show-stopper at any Mardi Gras party. But there are other notable Mardi Gras treats worth trying, too. Ahead, you'll find favorite Southern comfort foods like pecan pralines, banana cream pie, and more sweets to pair with a round of Mardi Gras drinks. If you want to take a trip to New Orleans without ever leaving your home, try overnight beignets topped with lots of powdered sugar. Or give Chantilly cake a try—it's impressive as it is tasty. Of course, there's also a recipe for king cake on this list—and you won't be disappointed. Just be sure to hide a whole almond (or plastic baby) inside the cake—it's a Mardi Gras tradition!
Berry Chantilly Cake
Light and airy, Chantilly cake can trace its origins back to the French influence of the early 1800s in New Orleans. It remains a popular staple year-round and can easily be recreated at home. This cake stacks three fluffy layers with fresh berries and a frosting that's truly unforgettable.
Get the Berry Chantilly Cake recipe.
Overnight New Orleans Beignets
No need to travel to New Orleans for these sweet, pillowy bites of fried dough. Prep the dough the night before, then fry, dust, and serve them piping hot. Oh, and don't hold back on the powdered sugar!
King Cake
If you're a fan of cinnamon rolls, you'll love this traditional Mardi Gras cake. It's a yeasted dough, rolled up with cinnamon and sugar, then drizzled with a sweet glaze! Use purple, green, and gold sparkling sugars for even more festive flair.
Get the King Cake recipe.
Pecan Pralines
This Southern candy is great for gifting to your friends. It's soft, buttery caramel candy loaded with toasted pecan halves and finished with a pinch of flaky sea salt to balance the sweetness. They're easy to make at home and can even be made up to a week in advance.
Get the Pecan Pralines recipe.
Pecan Pie Bars
For a fun spin on classic pecan pie, this recipe turns it into easy-to-share bars (without losing any gooey flavor)—perfect for packing up for a potluck or bringing along on a Bourbon Street parade stroll.
Get the Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
Banana Cream Pie
Not everyone is a fan of bananas (we're looking at you, Ree Drummond), but if you want to add this Southern pie to your Mardi Gras celebration we highly suggest a hefty dollop of whipped cream on top!
Get the Banana Cream Pie recipe.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Nothing says Southern indulgence like pecan pie and cheesecake—so why not have both? This rich and creamy dessert combines the best of both worlds with a caramel-like topping that screams New Orleans decadence.
Get the Pecan Pie Cheesecake recipe.
Macaroons
Coconut lovers, this one's for you! These chewy, chocolate-dipped macaroons are the perfect addition to any Mardi Gras celebration. To give them a festive twist, swap the chocolate for white chocolate and sprinkle on some purple, green, and gold sugar before they set.
Get the Macaroons recipe.
Bourbon Balls
New Orleans is known for its love of bourbon, so these boozy little treats feel right at home on a Mardi Gras dessert spread. Made with vanilla wafers, toasted walnuts, and a healthy splash of bourbon, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Get Ree's Bourbon Balls recipe.
Coconut Cream Pie
Coconut is a staple in many New Orleans desserts, so why not bring that flavor to the Mardi Gras table? With its flaky crust, creamy coconut custard, and fluffy whipped topping, this pie is just what you need to cool down after a plate of spicy jambalaya!
Get the Coconut Cream Pie recipe.
Cannoli
Did you know that New Orlean's famed bakery Angelo Brocato has been serving these Italian classics since 1905? They pop up on "must have" dessert lists all the time, so why not make your own if you can't visit this year!
Get the Cannoli recipe.
Coconut Layer Cake
You'll find coconut cake available in plenty of bakeries, restaurants, and homes around the South, including New Orleans! And you love coconut, you'll absolutely adore Ree's recipe.
Get Ree's Coconut Layer Cake recipe.
Pretzel Turtles
You'll find classic turtle candy all over the state of Louisiana. And while it's not hard to make, Ree found and even easier way by using store-bought candy for a satisfyingly bite of both sweet and salty.
Get Ree's Pretzel Turtles recipe.
Chocolate Pecan Pie
Dark chocolate chips give this classic pie a fudgy filling that's out-of-this-world good. If you like the balance of salty and sweet, try topping the pie with a pinch of flaky sea salt.
Get the Chocolate Pecan Pie recipe.
Candied Pecans
Keep a handful of these sweet nuts with you no matter where your Mardi Gras party takes you. They're perfect for snacking!
Get the Candied Pecans recipe.
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