As a beloved January tradition in France, the galette des rois reigns supreme during Epiphany celebrations. This iconic king cake comes in many forms—classic frangipane, apple-filled varieties, or the fruit-studded brioche from the South—but renowned pastry chef Cyril Lignac elevates it with his indulgent chocolate version. Featured on his hit show Tous en Cuisine, this recipe has won over families and food lovers alike, promising rich flavors and flawless results.
How to Make Cyril Lignac's Chocolate Galette des Rois
Preparation time: 35 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
For the puff pastry and gilding:
- 2 rolls of puff pastry
- 1 egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tbsp. water
For the chocolate cream:
- 30 cl whole milk
- 20g caster sugar
- 20g cornstarch
- 85g chopped milk chocolate
- 85g chopped dark chocolate
For the syrup:
Step-by-Step Recipe for Cyril Lignac's Chocolate Galette des Rois
- Preheat the oven to 200°C.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and sugar. Bring the milk to a boil and pour a portion over the cornstarch mixture, whisking constantly. Return to the pan with the remaining milk and boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, add the chopped chocolates, and stir until melted. Let cool.
- Prepare the glaze: Mix the egg, egg yolk, and water. For the syrup, boil the sugar and water, then set aside.
- On a perforated baking sheet lined with parchment, cut one 18 cm circle and one 22 cm circle from the puff pastry using a stainless steel ring and knife. Spread the chocolate cream in a spiral from the center of the smaller circle, leaving a 2 cm border. Place the fève (bean or charm), brush the edges with water, top with the larger circle, and seal edges tightly to trap no air.
- Chicquer (score) the edges with a paring knife. Brush the top lightly with glaze and score decorative patterns.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 200°C, then 45 minutes at 180°C.
- Brush with syrup upon removal from the oven and cool completely.
Homemade Galette des Rois vs. Supermarket: Which is Best?
For superior quality, bake your own. 60 Millions de Consommateurs reports that many supermarket galettes skim on almond powder—a key frangipane ingredient—compromising taste and value. Cyril Lignac's homemade recipe ensures premium results at a fraction of the cost.
Does Galette des Rois Make You Gain Weight?
Yes, it's indulgent: the classic frangipane version packs about 500 calories per 100g, thanks to buttery puff pastry and sugary filling. Enjoy occasionally, but for lighter options, try yogurt, apple, or raspberry variations to savor without the guilt.
