Their king cakes hold its flavor longer than any other brand. Take the rode trip to Metairie and buy one. You won't regret it.” Monica Crout, 37, of Thibodaux: “Cajun Pecan House, hands down. Fresh ingredients, unique fillings and moist, pillow-soft

By Judy Walker, The Times-Picayune Chris Granger/The Times-PicayuneThe winner of the 2012 King Cake King contest is the pecan praline made by Manny Randazzo. Q: You have to taste the king cake at (name your favorite) bakery. A. No, I don't.

A picture taken on January 5, 2011 shows crowns and traditional 'galette des rois' (King cakes) baked for the epiphany at a bakery in Paris. The King cake, with its broad beens or figurines, is traditionally sold an consumed few days befor and after

Let's not beat around the bead-covered bush any longer. Our panel of tasters has placed the 2012 Times-Picayune/NOLA.com King Cake King crown on the pecan praline king cake at Manny Randazzo King Cakes in Metairie

Note: The cake can be adapted to any occasion by substituting or eliminating the colored sugars. Colored sugars and plastic king cake babies are generally available at baking supply stores, as well as online. For better flavor, rehydrate the raisins in