Soft yellow cake layered with cinnamon-brown sugar ribbons, soaked in a buttery vanilla milk syrup, and topped with a light cream cheese cloud. Made richer with milk and coffee in the cake batter, because Mardi Gras doesn’t do flat flavors.
bake the cake
1 Preheat the oven according to the cake mix directions. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2 Prepare the cake batter as directed on the box, using half whole milk and half brewed coffee instead of water. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
3 Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
add the cinnamon layer
5 In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pecans. If using butter, gently rub it into the mixture until it looks slightly crumbly.
6 Sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly over the batter.
7 Carefully spread the remaining cake batter over the top, covering the filling as evenly as possible.
23 Add the plastic baby to the batter, pushing it down until it's hidden.
8 Bake according to the package directions, until golden and a toothpick inserted into the cake portion comes out clean.
make the poke syrup
10 While the cake bakes, combine sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and vanilla in a small saucepan. Warm gently over low heat, stirring until smooth. Do not boil.
soak the cake
12 Remove the cake from the oven. While it’s still hot, poke holes all over the surface using the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw.
13 Slowly pour the warm milk mixture over the cake, letting it sink into every corner. Pause between pours if needed—this cake likes attention.
14 Allow the cake to cool completely.
make the topping
16 Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and almond extract until smooth and fluffy.
17 Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully combined.
18 Spread the topping evenly over the cooled cake.
decorate and chill
20 Sprinkle generously with purple, green, and gold sanding sugar.
21 Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours before serving so everything sets up just right. Overnight is best.
