The Best Galette des Rois (King's Cake) in Paris 2025
Categories : Lifestyle, published on : 1/2/25
But do you know the origins of this delicious treat? Its roots date back to Roman times, when it was part of the Saturnalia celebrations, honoring the god Saturn. Over time, it evolved to become the must-have dessert on January 6th, the day of the Epiphany, commemorating the visit of the Three Wise Men to the infant Jesus.
The Different Recipes of the Galette des Rois
Frangipane Galette: The Traditional Recipe
The frangipane galette des rois, filled with almond cream and pastry cream, remains an irresistible classic. Wrapped in a carefully baked all-butter puff pastry, it achieves the perfect balance between softness and crunchiness.
Gourmet Variations
For a twist on tradition, new gourmet versions emerge each year: dark chocolate, praline, or hazelnut, fillings with pears, raspberries, or pistachios, bold flavors like orange blossom, salted butter caramel, or candied fruits.
The Ritual of the Fève: King or Queen for a Day
A key element of the galette des rois is the fève. Once a simple dried bean, it has evolved into a porcelain figurine representing characters, animals, or symbols of good luck. Whoever finds the fève becomes the king or queen for the day, complete with a crown to mark the moment. This ritual brings family and friends together for a warm and joyful celebration.
Where to Find the Best Galette des Rois in Paris for 2025
We’ve handpicked the top spots in Paris to enjoy an unforgettable Galette des Rois!
1. À la Mère de Famille & Stohrer
These historic establishments offer an exceptional artisan galette, filled with frangipane, almond cream, hazelnut paste, and homemade praline, topped with dark chocolate pieces and caramelized hazelnuts.
16 Rue Rambuteau, 75004 Paris
2. Benoît Castel
Known for its inverted puff pastry, which ensures a unique crunch, this bakery offers a filling made with Madagascar vanilla and almond powder that will delight food enthusiasts.
72 Rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud, 75011 Paris
3. Carette
Located on Place des Vosges, Carette serves a traditional galette featuring all-butter puff pastry and a creamy frangipane—perfect for lovers of authentic flavors.
25 Place des Vosges, 75003 Paris
4. Jacques Génin
Famed for his chocolate creations, Jacques Génin presents a dark chocolate galette with intense flavors. Visit him on Rue de Turenne near the FABRIC hotel.
133 Rue de Turenne, 75003 Paris
Make Your Own Galette des Rois!
Are you a cooking enthusiast looking to make your own Galette des Rois? Follow this simple recipe:
- Prepare puff pastry from scratch or use a store-bought version.
- In a mixing bowl, combine: almond powder, soft butter, icing sugar, a splash of rum and a hint of bitter almond, egg yolks to create a smooth frangipane cream.
- Roll out the pastry and spread the cream over it. Cover with a second pastry circle, seal the edges with a fork, and brush with an egg wash using a pastry brush.
- Don’t forget to hide the fève for crowning your king or queen of the day. Bake in a preheated oven until the galette is golden brown and the puff pastry rises perfectly.
Enjoy your warm homemade galette with a glass of craft cider or some homemade compote for an extra gourmet touch.
A Sweet Tradition to Share
Whether classic or reinvented, the galette des rois invites us to share moments of joy and sweet indulgence. Ready to celebrate and crown your king or queen this year? Happy New Year and enjoy!
Photo generated by AI
