18 Comments
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Sara Avant Stover's avatar

I recently moved to Bordeaux from the US as well, and have been seeing these in all the boulangerie windows. It's good to learn more about the history. I'll be getting our Pithiviers this week!

Jenn Davis's avatar

Welcome to Bordeaux!! The Pithiviers are fabulous! So many options to choose from across the city!

Barrie Kaufman's avatar

I am having a dinner party for 8 on Sat. Will make it then. Thank goodness I bought 2 packages of puff pastry at Christmas

I was hoping you would post this if I can’t find European unsalted butter can I use salted?

Jenn Davis's avatar

In the states I use Plugra and Kerrygold butter.

Jenn Davis's avatar

Oh fun!! Yes you can swap for salted butter, just look for one that doesn’t have the large salt crystals. And skip adding any salt to the cream. ☺️

Stephen E Moss's avatar

The bits of candied fruit are very much a feature of the GdR here in Provence. My wife has from time to time made them, but one can find such an excellent selection in the local patisseries I think it takes a real enthusiast to make their own - well done!

Jenn Davis's avatar

Hi Stephen! I love the bite of orange☺️ I bought one too, but definitely wanted to try my own, thanks so much!

Mary S's avatar

Wow! I've never been brave enough to try to make my own galette des rois. Living in the "far south" of France I've developed a taste for the southern version - very light and fluffy, but just as sweet .... A fun tradition we have signed right up for!

Jenn Davis's avatar

I cheated with pre-made pastry☺️ I’m loving both versions! I do think I’ll try a chocolate one next, even though it’s not traditional.

We Wander France's avatar

I tried to make it last year. I was not successful! Maybe I’ll try again this year.

Jenn Davis's avatar

This one is pretty easy☺️ Just almond cream..next year I might get fancy and do chocolate with frangipane 🤎

We Wander France's avatar

I live in USA but I brought home the Frangipane mix. Just add egg and water. But for some reason the center turned firm after baking. I have 2 more bags of the mix though and it’s that time of year…

Jenn Davis's avatar

Oh! Never tried it!

Cindy Dreibelbis's avatar

Same. If at first you don’t succeed…👩🏼‍🍳

Kathy Janiec's avatar

Jenn, this looks Fab with the orange marmelade layer!! I've always made mine with a bit of rum, but I might try it with Amaretto this year to 'up' the almond flavor.

Cindy Dreibelbis's avatar

I’m late, but going to practice with Amaretto also!

Lucy Hearne Keane's avatar

This looks delicious. I hadn't heard of this Epiphany tradition in France. In Ireland for Halloween we bake breacs and put a gold ring in them. They are light fruit breads. The ring is to bring good luck.

Christine 🇨🇦's avatar

Thanks from 🇨🇦for posting the recipe !!

Will definitely try ..

Do you think there will be some in the boulangerie mid month still …??