Galettes des Rois

The Galette des Rois, or “King Cake,” is a traditional French pastry enjoyed during the celebration of Epiphany. This delightful dessert is made with puff pastry and filled with a rich, almond frangipane. It’s not only delicious but also fun to share with friends and family. Here’s how you can make this classic treat at home.

Ingredients

For the Frangipane Filling:

• 1 1/2 cup (150g) almond meal
• 1/2 cup (100g) sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Zest of 1/2 orange (organic)
• 3 1/2 ounces (100g) unsalted butter, cubed, at room temperature
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/8 teaspoon almond extract

To Assemble:

• 2 puff pastry sheets (450g; 225g each)
• A fève (or a whole almond, if you can’t find one)
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon milk

Directions

For the Frangipane Filling:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the almond meal, sugar, salt, and orange zest.
2. Add the butter and cream all ingredients until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the eggs one at a time, followed by the almond extract.
4. Cover and chill the mixture for at least 15 minutes or up to 3 days.

To Assemble:

1. Thaw the puff pastry sheets and roll them out into 9 1/2 inch circles on a lightly floured surface. Chill the pastry circles for at least 30 minutes.
2. Lay one pastry circle on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread the frangipane filling in the middle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge.
3. Place a fève in the filling.
4. Brush the border of the pastry with water, then cover with the second pastry circle. Seal the edges by pressing them together.
5. Flute the sides for a decorative touch. Brush the top with a mixture of egg yolk and milk.
6. Score the top of the pastry with a knife in a decorative pattern. Poke a small hole in the center to allow steam to escape.
7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
8. Let the galette cool on a wire rack before serving.

Serving and Enjoying

Serve the Galette des Rois warm or at room temperature. Traditionally, the person who finds the fève in their slice is crowned king or queen for the day and gets to wear a paper crown. This delightful tradition adds a fun and festive touch to your celebration.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Calories: 350 kcal per slice
• Servings: 8

Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Galette des Rois with your loved ones! Happy baking and happy Epiphany!