Imagine a magical pastry that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also crowns a lucky winner with royal status! The Galette des Rois, or King Cake, is more than just a dessert - it's a centuries-old French tradition that brings excitement, mystery, and delectable almond-filled layers to your table. With its golden, flaky crust and creamy frangipane filling hiding a secret surprise, this cake transforms an ordinary gathering into an extraordinary celebration of flavor and fun!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 sheets of puff pastry
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
- 1 fève (figurine)
Instructions
- Prepare the almond cream filling by combining softened butter, sugar, and almond flour in a mixing bowl. Cream together until smooth and light.
- Add 2 whole eggs and vanilla extract to the almond mixture, whisking until fully incorporated and creating a smooth, creamy frangipane filling.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut two identical circular shapes, approximately 9 inches in diameter. Place one pastry circle on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spread the almond cream filling evenly across the center of the first pastry circle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Hide the fève (figurine) within the filling.
- Brush the exposed pastry border with water to help seal the layers. Carefully place the second pastry circle on top, pressing edges to seal completely.
- Create decorative patterns on the top pastry layer by gently scoring curved lines with a sharp knife, being careful not to cut through the pastry.
- Brush the entire surface with egg yolk wash to ensure a golden, shiny finish when baked.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and deeply golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. Traditionally served slightly warm.
- When serving, whoever finds the hidden fève becomes the "king" or "queen" and gets to wear a paper crown.
Tips
- Ensure your butter is perfectly softened for a smooth, creamy almond filling that blends seamlessly.
- When sealing the pastry layers, press firmly but gently to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Use a sharp knife for scoring decorative patterns, creating that classic, elegant French pastry look.
- For the most authentic experience, serve slightly warm and have a paper crown ready for the lucky fève finder!
- If you can't find a traditional fève, a small ceramic or plastic figurine works perfectly - just warn your guests to eat carefully!
- Parchment paper is crucial for preventing sticking and ensuring an even, golden bottom crust.
- Don't rush the cooling process - letting the galette rest helps the flavors meld and makes cutting easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 425kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 110mg
