Galette des Rois: Unveiling the Sweet Tradition and History Behind France's Iconic Epiphany Cake

Synonymous with French holiday festivities, the galette des rois has earned its place as a culinary staple within the country’s many pâtisseries. However, aside from tasting delicious, the galette des rois actually has deep history in French culture, and its customary traditions have become adopted by pastry lovers around the world. Curious to learn more? Dive into everything you need to know about France’s sweetest holiday tradition, here. 

Galette des Rois: A Piece of Gastronomic History 

The roots of the galette des rois date back to the Middle Ages, when the Benedictine monks would celebrate the arrival of the three kings’—often referred to as Three Wise Men’s—visit to the newborn Christ. This special day, also known as the Epiphany, is celebrated on January 6th, which is exactly 12 days after the Christmas holiday is celebrated. 

Today, the galette des rois has become a symbol of French tradition and gastronomic culture, and is beloved by pâtisserie fans of all ages. Although numerous variations exist, the traditional galette des rois cake is generally prepared with puff pastry and almond cream, known as frangipane in French. However, despite the numerous variations, the customs surrounding the enjoyment of the cake are relatively universal. 

Regardless of preparation, within each galette des rois lies a tiny ceramic baby known as the fève (bean, in French). Historically, the fèves were actually fava beans or almonds, though over time, the hidden items evolved to little ceramic charms. When ready to enjoy, the galette is sliced evenly (generally six to eight slices, depending on the size of the cake), ensuring that every person receives the same size cut. 

The youngest person of the group then hides under the table and decides which person receives each slice as they’re cut. Whoever ends up with the slice containing the ceramic fève is crowned king or queen for the day and gets to wear the foil crown, as well as choose their partner! Whether crowned king / queen or not, each guest enjoys an equal-sized portion of the galette, emphasizing the French cultural foundations of conviviality and inclusion. 

Artisanal Savoir-Faire: How the Galette des Rois Is Made

Over the years, the galette des rois has garnered a permanent place in French gastronomic culture, and has become a distinct symbol of savoir-faire. Crafting the perfect galette is no small feat, and many professional pâtissiers have spent years perfecting their craft. The traditional galette des rois recipe calls for pâte feuilleté (puff pastry) and frangipane (almond cream). To try your hand at making one at home, simply line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat your oven to 400°F. 

Cut your store-bought or homemade puff pastry—we recommend reaching for the former for simplicity’s sake—into two nine-inch circles. Spread the filling over the pastry circle leaving approximately one-inch from the edge dry, so as to create the crust. Place the fève randomly into the mixture, wet the edge of the pastry with egg wash, then add the second puff pastry on top. Let chill in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes, then brush with egg wash, create a handful of slits, and bake for 40-45 minutes (or until the galette is puffed and a golden hue).  

💡 Fun fact: According to La Route des Gourmands, over 30 million galettes des rois are made in France each year—meaning their economic impact on small, family-owned patisseries has certainly left a mark!

The Different Types of Galettes des Rois (and Its Iterations Abroad)

However, this traditional recipe isn’t the only way to whip up a galette des rois at home. In the south of France, many pâtissiers create their galette des rois in a more brioche-style way and add candied fruit, whereas international bakers across the United States and beyond have taken to adding various fillings—chocolate, fruit based, and more. Other modern variations have also become popular over the years, including gluten-free options, as well as those with almond substitutes, so as to be inclusive to those with allergies and dietary restrictions. 

Additionally, the galette des rois tradition has become emulated abroad, namely in the US city of New Orleans with the King’s Cake. Contrary to the golden-hued French expression, the Louisiana King’s Cake is a multi-colored cross between an American coffee cake and cinnamon roll, finished with yellow, green, and purple icing. The cake is often stacked with fruit filling or cream cheese, and similar to its French counterpart, includes a hidden baby. 

The hues of the King’s Cake are the official colors of Mardi Gras, as the cake is generally enjoyed in New Orleans from January through Ash Wednesday. Rather than being crowned king / queen, whoever’s slice has the baby is required to throw the next party and bring the next King’s Cake to the table! The King’s Cake, along with the many classic and unique interpretations alike, are an homage to how this festive French tradition has become adopted and appreciated around the globe. 

Perfect Pairings: Wine, Cider & Beyond 

Traditionally, the galette des rois has long been paired with cider, as the drink’s effervescence, touch of sweetness, and generally lower level of alcohol make for a light and refreshing marriage with the buttery puff pastry and frangipane cream. However, sparkling wines also make for an excellent alternative, including Champagne and crémants from various regions in France (Alsace, Burgundy, and the Loire to name a few). 

A good rule of thumb to stick to when pairing wine with desserts is to always keep your beverage slightly sweeter than what’s on your plate. For those looking for still options over bubbly, reaching for a luscious Sauternes from Bordeaux or a demi-sec Chenin Blanc from the Loire Valley (Coteaux du Layon or Quarts de Chaumes) promise to make for an equally unforgettable pairing. 

From our Taste France family to yours, we wish you a joyful holiday season! ✨