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Kings Cake

Kings Cake is a festive dessert with golden, flaky layers and a rich frangipane filling, traditionally enjoyed during celebrations. Each slice carries the essence of joy and camaraderie.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Celebration, Dessert
Cuisine: French, Pastry
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pastry and filling ingredients
  • 2 sheets Puff pastry (approximately 500 to 600 g total)
  • 1 large Egg (beaten with 1 tablespoon water for egg wash) For egg wash
  • 150 g Butter (softened) Should be at room temperature
  • 150 g Sugar
  • 3 large Eggs
  • 150 g Ground almonds Consider toasting for extra flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
  • 1 piece Zest from one orange
  • 1 piece Lucky charm bean or almond Symbolizes good fortune
Syrup ingredients
  • 60 ml Water
  • 50 g Sugar (for syrup)

Method
 

Preparation of Pastry
  1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut two 9-inch circles. Place them on a baking sheet and refrigerate.
Making the Frangipane Filling
  1. In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition.
  2. Stir in ground almonds, vanilla extract, and orange zest until well combined.
Assembly
  1. Place one pastry circle on a lined baking sheet. Brush the outer edge with egg wash, and pipe or spoon the frangipane filling in a spiral, leaving a one-inch border.
  2. Press the lucky charm into the filling, then place the second circle on top, sealing the edges.
  3. Brush the top with egg wash and chill for at least one hour.
Baking
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Brush the chilled cake with egg wash and score a design on top.
  2. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until golden and puffed.
Making the Syrup and Serving
  1. While the cake bakes, heat sugar and water in a pan until dissolved to create syrup.
  2. Brush the hot cake with syrup for a shiny finish. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Store the Kings Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to a week. Consider toasting almonds and using almond extract for added flavor.