Matt Haines, the connoisseur of seasonal cakes, has recently unveiled his latest creation, ‘The Big Book of King Cake,’ showcasing his passion for this traditional pastry. Based in New Orleans, Haines delves into the rich history of king cakes, sharing insights into his personal favorite variations and teasing the release of a new book later this year.

Originally from Long Island, Haines found his way to New Orleans over a decade ago, initially drawn by an internship opportunity that extended into a long-term stay. His fascination with king cakes sparked in 2017 when he attended his first king cake party, igniting a quest to discover the best rendition of this beloved treat. What began as a simple search for the top king cakes in New Orleans soon evolved into a comprehensive exploration, leading Haines to sample a staggering 88 different varieties.

The winning king cake at the party, a cinnamon cream cheese creation from Tartine, not only claimed the title but also captured Haines’ heart as his personal favorite. Reflecting on his transition from a career in nonprofit management to a food writer, Haines credits his trail nickname, King Cake, earned during a hike on the Appalachian Trail, as the inspiration behind his foray into documenting the diverse world of king cakes.

Haines’ upcoming book celebrates over 75 bakeries and showcases more than 200 unique king cakes, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of this centuries-old tradition. Collaborating with photographer Randy Krause Schmidt, Haines embarked on a series of interviews and photo shoots, capturing the essence of each bakery’s contribution to the king cake legacy.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Haines managed to sample every king cake featured in his book, emphasizing the importance of experiencing each creation firsthand. As the king cake culture continues to evolve, with innovations like king cake flights and drive-thru experiences gaining popularity, Haines remains at the forefront of this culinary revolution.

Excitingly, Haines hints at his next project, ‘The Big Book of Po’Boy,’ slated for release later this year, promising another immersive exploration of a beloved Southern delicacy. As Haines’ culinary adventures unfold, his dedication to preserving and celebrating traditional flavors while embracing modern twists cements his status as a true aficionado of seasonal cakes.