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Each year, as soon as January begins, the King Cake makes its grand return to our tables.

A symbol of sharing and conviviality, this traditional pastry is an essential part of Epiphany celebrations. But where does this tradition come from? How can you prepare it to delight your loved ones? Balladins Hotels invites you to discover this delicious ritual.

The Origin of the King Cake : The King Cake has its roots in an ancient pagan festival: the Roman Saturnalia. During these celebrations, roles were reversed, and a temporary king was chosen using a bean hidden inside a cake. With the Christianization of the Roman Empire, this custom was reinterpreted to celebrate the Epiphany, marking the arrival of the Magi in Bethlehem.

Regional Variations of the King Cake

Depending on the region of France, the King Cake takes on different forms:

• In the north and Île-de-France, it is typically made of puff pastry filled with frangipane, a delightful mixture of almond cream and pastry cream.
• In the south of France, a brioche scented with orange blossom water and adorned with candied fruits is the star

The Bean: The Little Star of the King Cake

The bean, hidden in the heart of the cake, adds a playful touch to this dessert. Once a simple legume seed, it has been replaced by porcelain figurines, which are often collected by enthusiasts.

A Simple Recipe for a Homemade King Cake

Want to make your own King Cake? Here’s an easy and delicious recipe for 6 to 8 people.

Ingredients:

2 sheets of puff pastry

100 g of almond powder

100 g of powdered sugar

75 g of softened butter

2 eggs + 1 yolk for glazing

1 tablespoon of rum (optional)

1 bean

Preparation:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).

In a bowl, mix the almond powder, sugar, softened butter, and 2 eggs until a smooth cream is formed. Add the rum if desired.

Place one sheet of puff pastry on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Spread the almond cream, leaving a 2 cm border.

Insert the bean into the filling, positioning it near the edge to reduce the risk of cutting into it.

Cover with the second sheet of puff pastry. Seal the edges firmly by pinching them together.

Draw patterns on the top with the tip of a knife (without piercing the pastry) and brush with the egg yolk for a golden finish.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cake is golden and puffed.

Whether you prefer it with frangipane or as a brioche, the King Cake is a delicious way to celebrate Epiphany. Visit your nearest Balladins Hotel for even more ideas to enrich your festive traditions!