French Epiphany Cake – A Sweet Way To Celebrate The Holidays

April 02, 2023 Post a Comment

Black Forest Gâteau Recipe with images Meilleur du Chef from www.meilleurduchef.com

Epiphany is celebrated in many countries around the world, but in France, it is particularly famous. On Epiphany, families come together to celebrate the Three Kings’ arrival in Bethlehem and exchange gifts. The meal is followed by a traditional French Epiphany cake, known as the Galette des Rois. This rich, buttery cake is filled with a creamy almond-flavored pastry cream and is a delicious way to celebrate the holidays. Here’s how to make a Galette des Rois.

Ingredients

For the pastry:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 sticks butter, cold and diced
1/4 cup ice water
1 egg, beaten

For the filling:

1/2 cup almond paste
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
2 eggs, separated
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
3/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions

Making the pastry:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the butter, and use a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Add the ice water and mix until the dough comes together. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times until it forms a smooth ball. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 375°F. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out into a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the almond paste in the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks, almond extract, and cream and mix until smooth. Spread the filling on top of the almond paste and fold the edges of the dough up and over the filling, pleating it as you go.

In a small bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Spread the egg whites over the pastry and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown. Let the cake cool completely before serving.

Serving:

The French Epiphany cake can be served at room temperature or chilled. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy!