King’s cake with almond cream

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The King’s Cake, or Galette des Rois, is a timeless French pastry that carries with it a rich tradition of celebration. Often enjoyed during the Epiphany, this flaky, buttery pastry is filled with a luscious almond cream known as frangipane. Its golden crust and hidden trinket or “fève” add an element of surprise, making it a cherished centerpiece for gatherings. This recipe not only pays homage to the cultural significance of the King’s Cake but also provides a foolproof way to recreate this delicious dessert at home, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

  • 2 sheets of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)

For the Almond Cream (Frangipane):

  • 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
  • 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 100g (1 cup) almond flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
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For the Egg Wash:

  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Almond Cream:

  1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  3. Stir in the almond flour, all-purpose flour, and almond extract until the mixture is smooth. Set aside.

2. Assemble the Cake:

  1. Roll out the puff pastry sheets. Place one sheet on a parchment-lined baking tray.
  2. Spread the almond cream evenly over the pastry, leaving a 2 cm (1-inch) border around the edges.
  3. If adding a “fève” (a small trinket or bean) for tradition, place it into the almond cream now.
  4. Lay the second puff pastry sheet on top and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
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3. Decorate:

  1. With the back of a knife, gently score a pattern (e.g., spirals, diamonds) on the surface of the pastry. Be careful not to cut through the dough.
  2. Brush the top with the egg wash (egg yolk mixed with milk).

4. Bake:

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Bake the galette for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and puffed.

5. Cool and Serve:

  1. Allow the galette to cool slightly before serving.
  2. Tradition: The person who finds the “fève” is crowned king or queen for the day!

Tips:

  • Ensure your puff pastry is cold when assembling to prevent it from becoming sticky or difficult to handle.
  • For extra flavor, you can add a splash of rum or vanilla extract to the almond cream.
  • Serve warm with a side of coffee or tea for the perfect treat!
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Conclusion:

The King’s Cake with almond cream is more than just a dessert; it’s a tradition that brings joy and togetherness. With its delicate puff pastry and velvety frangipane filling, this treat is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Whether you’re celebrating Epiphany or simply indulging in a sweet moment, this cake is sure to impress. So gather your family and friends, crown a king or queen for the day, and savor every bite of this delightful creation. Let this recipe be your gateway to creating memories filled with warmth and flavor.

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