This is a recording of a class that originally took place on February 22, 2022. King Cake is an iconic New Orleans pastry, deeply tied to Carnival season and the traditions that lead up to Mardi Gras. In this class, Chaya Conrad demonstrates how to make Bywater Bakery’s most popular King Cake while exploring its history, cultural significance, and the many variations you’ll find across Louisiana. Along the way, she shares insights into dough handling, filling choices, finishing, and what makes a truly great King Cake—one worthy of gathering friends, family, and neighbors around the table. ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR Chaya Conrad is the co-owner of Bywater Bakery in New Orleans, which she runs with her husband, Alton Osborne. Her baking career spans early kitchen experiences in New York and Vermont, formal training at the Culinary Institute of America, and a deep professional love affair with New Orleans that began during her externship. After years baking for farmers markets, managing commissary and large-scale grocery bakeries, and shaping some of the most beloved cakes in Louisiana—including Chantilly and Gentilly—Chaya returned to the Crescent City to open Bywater Bakery in 2017. Known for its community spirit, live music, and some of the city’s most celebrated King Cakes, Bywater Bakery reflects Chaya’s belief that baking is about joy, generosity, and connection. You will receive access to a private YouTube link. This is an unedited recording of a live webinar originally offered via Zoom. You may watch it at any time and as many times as you like, but you may not share the link or distribute any part of the video or audio. Guild Members: Please log in to your account to access exclusive member pricing.