As I pulled this Apple and Almond Galette out of the oven, the warm, sweet aroma filled the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy autumn afternoon. My family gathered around, eagerly waiting to take a bite of this rustic dessert, and their reactions did not disappoint. The flaky, golden crust paired perfectly with the tender, spiced apples and the subtle nuttiness of the almonds. We all agreed this recipe is a keeper, destined to become a staple in our home for both special occasions and simple, comforting treats.
Ingredients
The magic of this Apple and Almond Galette lies in its simplicity and the freshness of its ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions
Creating this galette is a straightforward process that even novice bakers can follow. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, almond flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 2: Gradually add the ice water, stirring until the dough comes together. Shape it into a disc, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: In a mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Arrange the apples in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border.
Step 5: Fold the edges of the dough over the apples, pleating as necessary. Brush the crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with sliced almonds and turbinado sugar.
Step 6: Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden and the apples are tender. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Facts
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings, with each serving containing about 290 calories. It’s a delightful way to indulge in a sweet treat without overindulging.
Preparation Time
The preparation time for this galette is around 20 minutes, with an additional 40 minutes of baking, and 30 minutes of cooling. This means you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in about an hour and a half, which is perfect for weekend baking or entertaining guests.
How to Serve
Serving this Apple and Almond Galette can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish. Here are some suggestions to enhance the experience:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream to add a light, airy touch.
- Enjoy with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Additional Tips
Here are some tips to ensure your galette turns out perfectly every time:
- Chill the dough: Make sure your dough is thoroughly chilled to prevent it from becoming too sticky or difficult to work with.
- Choose the right apples: Opt for firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that hold their shape during baking.
- Use parchment paper: This will prevent the galette from sticking to the baking sheet and make cleanup easier.
- Don’t overfill: Be careful not to overfill the galette with apples to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of ginger or cardamom for a unique twist.
FAQ
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out.
Q: What can I substitute for almond flour?
A: You can use additional all-purpose flour if you don’t have almond flour, though the almond flavor will be less pronounced.
Q: Can I use other fruits?
A: Absolutely! Pears or peaches make excellent substitutions or additions to the apples.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Q: Can I freeze the galette?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked galette. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
