With Epiphany 2025 around the corner on January 5th, many are preparing to indulge in the traditional galette des rois, a delightful pastry typically filled with frangipane. This year, there's even more to celebrate as renowned pastry chef Nina Métayer presents her innovative takes on this classic treat.
This year marks the return of the galette's old friend, the well-loved pâtissière, who was distinguished as the World Pastry Champion just this past year. Nina Métayer is serving up not just one, but three exquisite varieties of galettes for the Epiphany. Her creations, which are rich with flavor yet light enough to enjoy after the holiday feasts, are sure to please any palate.
The first is called 'La Boussole.' It features a chocolate-infused feuilleté base with hints of sarrasin and cacao, creating a deliciously unique flavor profile. This galette pays homage to Métayer’s roots, with ingredients celebrating her connections to La Rochelle, where she was born, and Paris, where her bakery flourishes.
The second creation, named 'La Notre-Dame,' commemorates the iconic cathedral of Paris, which suffered devastating fire damage back on April 15, 2019. Now, set to reopen, this beauty brings together the comforting flavors of spices, caramel, and buttery goodness, all wrapped up in delicate layers of pastry, topped with artistic tuiles representing the cathedral's grand stained-glass windows.
Finally, the third variety is called 'L'Ambrée,' which focuses on the classic frangipane flavor but is made with high-quality French butters and features notes of amber rum. It's light on sugar, making it both delicious and digestible.
Alongside Métayer's gourmet offerings, home bakers seeking healthier options can prepare their own galette with lower glycemic index ingredients. An interesting recipe shared by Max de Génie recommends substituting almond flour for traditional almond powder, significantly reducing sugar levels. With two layers of puff pastry, this recipe involves heating milk, mixing it with egg yolks and coconut sugar, and then blending this mixture with the similar almond cream for the filling, before baking at 200°C for about 30 minutes.
This approach not only provides the joy of indulging during Epiphany but also allows for enjoyable flavors without the nasty sugar spikes often associated with traditional recipes. The epitome of indulgence without compromise, this galette is characterized by being less caloric than conventional recipes, thanks to the almond flour's lower calorie count.
Baking enthusiasts interested in trying their hand at the brioche alternative to galettes can opt for the delicious 'Brioche des Rois.' This sweet bread, adorned with candied fruits, is another beloved tradition. The recipe involves mixing dry yeast with warm milk, followed by incorporating flour, sugar, butter, and adding eggs, before letting it rise. After shaping it like a crown and allowing it to rest again, the brioche is ready to be baked to perfection.
Each of these treats—be it the classic galette des rois or the brioche version—offers up delectable flavors perfect for sharing on Epiphany. Nina Métayer's innovative recipes combined with guilt-free alternatives allow everyone to fully enjoy this festive occasion.