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### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Almond Cream Filling
1. **Mix the dry ingredients**: In a medium bowl, combine the almond flour and powdered sugar. Stir until well mixed.
2. **Cream the butter**: In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter with a spoon or hand mixer until light and fluffy.
3. **Add the egg**: Beat in the whole egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
4. **Add the almond flour mixture**: Gradually fold in the almond flour and powdered sugar mixture. If desired, add a splash of rum or milk for a subtle flavor boost.
5. **Season**: Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and stir everything until the filling is smooth and creamy.
#### Step 2: Assemble the Galette
1. **Prepare the puff pastry**: Unroll the two sheets of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Using a plate or a lid as a guide, cut two circles of pastry, about 9 inches in diameter each. One will be the base, and the other will form the top.
2. **Spread the almond cream**: Place one sheet of pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the almond cream evenly over the surface, leaving about an inch around the edges. If you have a fève (the traditional figurine or bean), now is the time to hide it in the filling, but be sure to warn your guests before they bite into it!
3. **Cover with the second pastry**: Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top of the filling. Press the edges down gently to seal the galette. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative effect.
4. **Egg wash**: In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk with a teaspoon of water. Brush the egg wash over the top of the galette to give it a golden, glossy finish.
#### Step 3: Bake the Galette
1. **Preheat the oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Score the top**: Use a sharp knife to lightly score the top of the galette in a decorative pattern, making sure not to cut all the way through the pastry. This helps the pastry rise evenly during baking.
3. **Bake**: Place the galette in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed. If you want an extra crispy finish, you can increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 5 minutes of baking.
4. **Cool**: Allow the galette to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
#### Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooled slightly, cut the galette into wedges and serve. Traditionally, the person who finds the fève in their slice is crowned “King” or “Queen” and is expected to choose their “royal” partner for the day. Enjoy this delicious treat with a warm cup of tea or coffee, and share it with friends and family for a festive celebration.
### Tips for Success:
– **Store-bought puff pastry**: To make this recipe even more convenient, use high-quality store-bought puff pastry. It will save you time and effort without compromising the final result.
– **Customize the filling**: If you prefer a more decadent filling, you can add a tablespoon of heavy cream or a dash of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.
– **Fève alternatives**: If you don’t have a fève, you can use a small, clean bean or any other small, oven-safe object. Just make sure to inform your guests before they take a bite!
– **Golden finish**: For a beautiful golden sheen, brush the galette with egg wash before baking and after it comes out of the oven, for an extra glossy appearance.
### Conclusion:
This **Galette des Rois Express** is a fast and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of the traditional French dessert without the lengthy preparation time. With its flaky pastry and rich almond cream filling, it’s the perfect treat for celebrating the Epiphany or simply indulging in a special dessert. Easy to make, yet wonderfully impressive, this galette will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
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