The People of Franche-Comté Speak Out: Their King Cake Reigns Supreme
The residents of Franche-Comté aren’t shy about it: the best king cake isn’t the typical frangipane-filled pastry… but rather their own lighter, equally tempting local specialty!
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Brioche or Galette: What’s Your Epiphany Choice?
During the Epiphany season, nearly 92% of us participate in the tradition of sharing a king cake at least once in January, according to a survey conducted by Ifop for the Federation of Bakery Entrepreneurs (FEB). The data reveals a strong preference for the traditional frangipane, with its rich, almond-filled center nestled between layers of flaky pastry, capturing the hearts of 73% of respondents. In contrast, only 13% opt for the southern variation flavored with orange blossom. This culinary divide almost splits France in two.
However, in Franche-Comté, neither option stirs much enthusiasm. The locals advocate for a third choice: the Comtoise king cake. “The best of all king cakes,” proclaim Mona and Claire on Instagram, proudly championing this underrated traditional pastry from their region. This unique version, also known as the ‘Bisontine galette,’ eschews the typical almond filling and puff pastry for a choux pastry base scented with orange blossom, poured directly into a pie dish, then brushed with egg yolk and scored with a fork. It’s lighter than a frangipane yet just as delicious!
Ready to Try Making It?
The local connoisseurs guide you through the process. Start by bringing 25cl of milk, 70g of butter, 50g of sugar, and a pinch of salt to a boil in a saucepan. Off the heat, add 140g of flour all at once. Return to heat and dry out the dough for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring with a wooden spoon. Remove from the heat and gradually mix in 4 eggs one by one until the dough is smooth and even. Finish by stirring in 4 tablespoons of orange blossom water.
Pour the mixture into a buttered pie dish, brush the entire surface with egg yolk, create stripes with the back of a fork, and bake for about 30 minutes at 180°C (350°F). A final tip? Let it cool completely before serving… and hurry to try it out: it might just become your new favorite!
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