kingcake

A kingcake is a ring-shaped pastry traditionally eaten during the Carnival season, from Epiphany through Mardi Gras.

The cake is typically decorated in purple, gold, and green—the colors of Mardi Gras—and contains a small plastic baby or bean hidden inside.

Whoever finds the token in their slice is said to have good luck, or must host the next party or buy the next cake.

The tradition is especially strong in New Orleans and Louisiana.

Also spelled king cake.