Crispy and melt-in-your-mouth, this king cake will please the whole family! Here is a modern recipe with caramelized apples and pecans that is very easy to prepare for Epiphany. It turns this celebration into a moment of indulgence with no fuss! Your turn to create the cake that will crown you with success without a doubt.
The new apple and pecan king cake that will wow all gourmands
Traditionally, the king cake is made with frangipane (a mix of almond cream and pastry cream), but there are a multitude of variations to delight young and old! You can add hazelnuts, chocolate, fruits, pistachio… You can also reinvent its shape as individual mini cakes, a crown, or even rolled. Otherwise, there is always the king cake brioche for those who prefer a softer sweetness!
But this cake might change your mind. In this ultra-crispy-on-the-outside version, you’ll find a generous and melt-in-your-mouth filling based on pecans and caramelized apples. Here, we skip the classic frangipane: we make a pecan cream, it’s so delicious! And the caramelized apples that melt in your mouth… It’s truly a marvel! And don’t forget to hide the fève to crown the king or queen of the year.
Ingredients list for 6 servings
– 2 sheets of puff pastry
– 120 g whole pecans
– 100 g unsalted butter
– 140 g sugar
– 2 eggs
– 2 apples
– 1 egg yolk
Simple preparation steps for a crispy and melt-in-your-mouth king cake
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Peel the apples and cut them into small cubes. Melt a little butter in a pan with a bit of sugar and let it caramelize slightly.
3. Add the apples and cook them until they are very tender and caramelized. Set aside and let cool.
4. Put the pecans, the remaining butter, the remaining sugar and the eggs in a blender. Blend until you obtain a smooth and homogeneous cream.
5. Cut discs from the puff pastry. Place in the center a spoonful of pecan cream on half of the discs, then add a few cubes of caramelized apples.
6. Moisten the edges, then cover with a disc of unfilled puff pastry. Seal the edges and brush with the egg yolk. Draw patterns on the top with a knife.
7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a nicely golden cake is obtained. Let cool before tasting.
The king cake, a simple yet irresistible dessert
What we love above all about the king cake is its very convivial side. Epiphany is the first pastry challenge of the year and, above all, it’s the opportunity to gather with friends or family after the holidays to share a moment of indulgence in total simplicity. Paired with a glass of cider (of course, in moderation), the king cake is a pure delight.
We recommend enjoying it while still a little warm to savor all its gourmand aromas, whether as a dessert or at tea time. You won’t leave a crumb! Bon appétit 😋
