The Galette des Rois, or King Cake, is a delightful French pastry traditionally enjoyed to celebrate Epiphany. This cake is famous for its flaky, buttery crust and rich almond filling, making it a treat fit for royalty. Whether you’re gathering with family or indulging alone, the Galette des Rois brings a touch of elegance and pleasure to any occasion. Simple to make yet impressive to serve, this recipe is perfect for baking enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Tips to Make the Galette des Rois Recipe:
1. Use Store-Bought Puff Pastry: To simplify the process, opt for high-quality store-bought puff pastry. It saves time and ensures you get those delicious layers without the hassle of making pastry from scratch.
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2. Chill the Almond Mixture: After preparing the almond filling, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to spread and helps maintain the integrity of the layers during baking.
3. Seal the Edges Well: Ensure the edges of the pastry are sealed properly by pressing them with a fork or your fingers. This prevents the filling from leaking out during baking, giving you a neat and tempting appearance.
4. Use an Egg Wash: Brush the top of the pastry with an egg wash before baking to achieve a beautiful golden-brown color. This not only enhances its look but also gives the galette an appetizing sheen.
How to Make Galette des Rois (King Cake with almond filling) Recipe?
Galette des Rois Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Rolling pin For rolling the pastry
- 1 Baking sheet To bake the galette
- 1 Pastry brush For egg wash
Ingredients
- 500 g Puff pastry Store-bought or homemade
- 100 g Almond flour
- 100 g Butter Softened
- 100 g Sugar
- 2 Eggs 1 for filling, 1 for egg wash
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 Fève Optional, a small charm or bean
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the almond flour, 1 egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined to form the almond cream.
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut into two circles of equal size.
- Place one pastry circle on a baking sheet and spread the almond cream over it, leaving a margin at the edges.
- Optionally place a fève in the filling. Cover with the second pastry circle and seal the edges.
- Beat the second egg and use a pastry brush to apply an egg wash on the top layer of pastry.
- Using the back of a knife, lightly score a decorative pattern on the pastry without cutting through the dough.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Nutrition
The Galette des Rois, or King Cake with almond filling, is more than just a delicious treat; it’s a celebration of tradition and community. Easy to make, it combines buttery puff pastry with a rich almond filling that delights both children and adults. Baking this cake offers a delightful way to bring family and friends together, sharing joy and creating lasting memories.
Beyond its taste, the cake’s tradition of hiding a small figurine or bean inside adds an element of surprise and fun. The person who finds it is crowned “king” or “queen” for the day, highlighting the playful spirit of this festive treat. Whether you’re celebrating Epiphany or just want to enjoy a slice, this cake adds a touch of magic to any gathering.
In essence, the Galette des Rois is a simple yet meaningful treat to make and share. With its delectable almond filling and flaky pastry, it’s sure to be a favorite in your home. Enjoy the warmth it brings to your table, and perhaps start a new tradition of your own.
