French King Cake (Galette des Rois)
This classic French King Cake, also known as Galette des Rois, is a beloved pastry traditionally enjoyed in January to celebrate Epiphany. Made with flaky puff pastry and a rich almond filling, this elegant dessert is simple to prepare yet impressive to serve. For tradition’s sake, a small trinket—or fève—is often hidden inside, and whoever finds it is crowned king or queen for the day.
Ingredients
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2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
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1 cup almond flour
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½ cup granulated sugar
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¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
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2 large eggs
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½ teaspoon almond extract
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 egg yolk
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1 tablespoon water
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Optional: a small trinket or fève (traditionally hidden inside the cake)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Almond Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, granulated sugar, and softened butter. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract, then blend until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Roll out one sheet of puff pastry onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread the almond filling evenly over the pastry, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
If using a fève, gently press it into the filling.
Step 4: Seal and Decorate
Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork for a decorative finish.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Score
In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk and water to create an egg wash. Brush it evenly over the top of the pastry. Using a sharp knife, lightly score a decorative pattern on the surface, taking care not to cut through the pastry.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cake is puffed and golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. Traditionally, the person who finds the fève in their slice is crowned king or queen for the day.
Enjoy your delicious French King Cake, a timeless pastry perfect for sharing and celebrating tradition.
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