Celebrate tradition and indulgence with this irresistible Twelfth Night Cake, also known as King Cake or Galette des Rois. Perfect for Epiphany festivities or any special occasion, this French-inspired dessert features layers of golden, flaky puff pastry encasing a rich almond frangipane filling made with almond flour, softened butter, and a hint of vanilla. Complete the experience by hiding a fève (a small charm or bean) in the filling, adding a fun and festive touch that crowns one lucky guest as king or queen for the day! With its stunning decorative scoring and glossy egg wash, this bake is as visually enchanting as it is delicious. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature, and pair with a hot beverage for a truly regal treat.
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy.
Add 1 egg, almond flour, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), salt, and all-purpose flour to the butter mixture. Mix until smooth and well combined. This is your frangipane filling.
Roll out the puff pastry sheets if they are not pre-rolled. On a lightly floured surface, cut two equal-sized circles about 25 cm (10 inches) in diameter. Use the base of a large bowl as a guide if needed.
Place one circle of puff pastry on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon the frangipane filling onto the center of the pastry, spreading it evenly, but leaving about a 2.5 cm (1 inch) border around the edges.
If you are using a fève, press it gently into the frangipane filling. Be sure to position it near the edge for easier serving.
Brush the edge of the pastry with a beaten egg (from the remaining egg mixed with 1 tablespoon of milk). Place the second circle of puff pastry over the first and seal the edges by gently pressing with your fingers or a fork.
Using a sharp knife, score the top layer of the pastry with decorative patterns (such as spirals or sunburst designs), being careful not to cut all the way through. Poke 2-3 small holes to allow steam to escape during baking.
Brush the entire surface of the pastry with the egg wash for a shiny golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and beautifully golden brown.
Remove the galette from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Traditionally, the youngest person in the room hides under the table to assign slices so the fève is distributed randomly.
Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your Twelfth Night Cake with family and friends!
Calories |
2535 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 187.4 g | 240% | |
| Saturated Fat | 69.2 g | 346% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 592 mg | 197% | |
| Sodium | 749 mg | 33% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 187.0 g | 68% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.2 g | 54% | |
| Total Sugars | 108.1 g | ||
| Protein | 47.4 g | 95% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.5 mcg | 18% | |
| Calcium | 369 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 9.2 mg | 51% | |
| Potassium | 297 mg | 6% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.