Galette des Rois: Traditional French King Cake Recipe
Galette des Rois: Traditional French King Cake Recipe
Introduction
Originating from France, Galette des Rois, or King Cake, is a traditional pastry enjoyed during the Epiphany season. This delectable treat is typically shared on January 6th to celebrate the arrival of the Three Wise Men. Filled with almond cream and often containing a hidden trinket, it’s a delightful dish that brings warmth and joy to gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 sheets of puff pastry
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1 tbsp rum (optional)
- 1 fève (small trinket or dried bean)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix almond flour, granulated sugar, softened butter, 1 egg, almond extract, and rum (if using) until smooth.
- Place one sheet of puff pastry on a baking sheet and spread the almond cream mixture, leaving a border around the edges.
- Press the fève into the almond cream (make sure it’s hidden).
- Place the second puff pastry sheet on top and press the edges to seal.
- Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the pastry for a golden finish.
- With a sharp knife, make light decorative patterns on the galette.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Traditionally, the youngest person present goes under the table and dictates who each slice goes to, ensuring a random recipient of the fève.
FAQ About Galette des Rois: Traditional French King Cake Recipe
What is a Galette des Rois?
A Galette des Rois is a traditional French pastry that is enjoyed during the Epiphany period, typically from the end of December through early January. It is a puff pastry cake filled with almond cream or frangipane and often contains a hidden figurine or fève. The person who finds the fève in their slice is considered the king or queen of the day.
What is the significance of Galette des Rois?
Galette des Rois is a symbolic dessert that celebrates the arrival of the Three Wise Men to visit baby Jesus. The cake is shared among family and friends, and the person who finds the fève in their slice is believed to be blessed with good luck for the coming year.
How is Galette des Rois made?
To make a traditional Galette des Rois, one typically uses puff pastry sheets filled with almond cream or frangipane. The pastry is then folded over, sealed, and decorated with a crisscross pattern before baking. Once baked, the Galette des Rois is often dusted with powdered sugar before serving.
