Even before the clock struck midnight on the 12th night of Christmas, the smell of king cakes wafted out from bakeries across Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes.

Traditionally, king cakes aren’t brought out until the Epiphany, but the colorful rolled pastries hit many bakery shelves just after Christmas Day.

According to The Courier and Daily Comet readers, one of the most popular places in town to grab one is Best Bakery in Houma.

The small shop is located at 996 W. Tunnel Blvd. and is said to have some of the best French bread, king cakes and any other baked goods you can dream of.

Outside of Mardi Gras, the shop is known for its traditional Cajun pastries, Chix de Femme, spiraled sweet, sticky rolls made from a secret family recipe.

So it’s only natural that the bakery would excel at making south Louisiana's other favorite sweet treat.

While Rouses and Cannata’s markets remain as some of the local leaders in mass king cakes sales, readers also praised Rob’s Donuts in Thibodaux for its spin on the traditional king cake.

Other local favorites include Mr. Ronnie’s in Houma, Cajun Pecan House in Cut Off, Caro’s Cakes, Chez Cake and Petersen Donuts & Desserts in Houma.

With another early Mardi Gras in 2018, king cake lovers only have five weeks to get their fill of this yearly treat before the purple, green and gold sprinkles are sent back to hibernation.

Staff Writer Julia Arenstam can be reached at 448-7636 or julia.arenstam@houmatoday.com. Follow her on Twitter at @gingerale214.