Frangipane Rhubarb Galette

The Frangipane Rhubarb Galette is a delightful fusion of rustic charm and sophisticated flavor. This dessert features a flaky, buttery crust enveloping a luscious almond frangipane filling, topped with tart rhubarb. The contrast between the sweet, nutty frangipane and the tangy rhubarb creates a harmonious balance that is both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for showcasing seasonal produce, this galette is an elegant yet approachable treat suitable for any occasion.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
  • 3–4 tablespoons ice water
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • ½ cup almond flour
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract
  • 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar (for sprinkling)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add apple cider vinegar and ice water gradually, mixing until the dough comes together. Form into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Make the Frangipane: In a food processor, combine almond flour, sugar, egg, softened butter, and almond extract. Blend until smooth and set aside.
  3. Assemble the Galette: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled dough on parchment paper into a 12-inch circle. Spread the frangipane in the center, leaving a 2-inch border. Arrange the chopped rhubarb over the frangipane. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating as necessary.
  4. Bake: Brush the crust with egg wash and sprinkle with turbinado sugar. Transfer the galette with parchment to a baking sheet and bake for 35–40 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling is set. Cool slightly before serving.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (1 slice, based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: 290
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 5g

The Charm of a Galette

A galette is not just a dessert, but a visual and culinary treat that offers the perfect balance between rustic charm and elegance. Unlike traditional pies or tarts that require precise measurements and exacting techniques, galettes are free-formed and often more forgiving. The folded edges of the dough provide a natural, handcrafted look that gives this dessert a beautiful, homemade feel. Its slightly imperfect shape, contrasted with the perfectly golden, flaky crust, makes it a comforting and approachable dessert that is as much about flavor as it is about appearance.

One of the best aspects of the galette is its versatility. It is a versatile pastry, as you can mix and match fillings depending on the season, availability of ingredients, and personal preferences. Whether you choose to make a sweet dessert or a savory dish, the galette dough provides the perfect backdrop for almost any filling. The simplicity of the dough allows the filling to shine, and in the case of the Frangipane Rhubarb Galette, the balance between the almond frangipane and tart rhubarb is a perfect example of how different textures and flavors can come together harmoniously.

Rhubarb – A Springtime Favorite

Rhubarb, often considered a vegetable but treated like a fruit in culinary dishes, is one of the first signs of spring in many gardens. Its bright red stalks and tart flavor make it a unique addition to a wide variety of dishes, particularly desserts. While rhubarb is commonly paired with strawberries, in this galette, it takes center stage, showcasing its tangy, slightly sour flavor that complements the rich almond frangipane perfectly.

Rhubarb is known for its distinct tartness, which can balance the sweetness of many desserts, making it an excellent pairing with the almond-flavored frangipane in this galette. While it may seem unusual to some, rhubarb’s natural acidity helps to cut through the richness of the almond filling, creating a balanced and satisfying dessert that isn’t overly sweet.

Additionally, rhubarb is incredibly nutritious. It is low in calories and packed with antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which give it its red color. Rhubarb is also a good source of vitamin K, which plays a key role in bone health, as well as calcium, magnesium, and fiber. By incorporating rhubarb into a dessert like this galette, you’re not only treating your taste buds to a delicious flavor but also reaping some nutritional benefits.

The Almond Frangipane Filling

Frangipane is a classic pastry filling that originated in Italy and France and is made primarily of almond flour, butter, sugar, and eggs. It is often used as a filling for tarts, galettes, and other pastries, thanks to its rich, nutty flavor and smooth, creamy texture. In this recipe, the frangipane filling serves as the perfect base for the tart rhubarb, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

The almond flour in the frangipane adds a delicate nuttiness, while the butter lends a rich, velvety texture. The inclusion of egg in the filling helps to bind the ingredients together, giving the frangipane its signature smooth consistency. When baked, the frangipane becomes golden and slightly caramelized, offering a rich, indulgent taste that complements the rhubarb’s tartness.

In addition to its fantastic flavor, frangipane can also be a versatile filling for a wide range of desserts. You can experiment with different types of nuts, such as hazelnuts or pistachios, to create unique variations of the frangipane filling. However, the traditional almond flavor pairs particularly well with fruit fillings, like the rhubarb in this galette, making it a classic choice for this particular recipe.

A Quick and Easy Dough for Galette

One of the many appealing aspects of making a galette is the simplicity of the dough. Unlike pie dough, which often requires precise handling and chilling, galette dough is much easier to work with and can be made in a single bowl. The dough is typically made by cutting cold butter into flour and then adding ice water to bring the dough together. There’s no need to worry about perfectly shaping the dough into a circle or placing it into a pie dish. Instead, the dough is rolled out into a rough circle, the filling is added, and the edges are simply folded over to form a rustic, freeform pastry.

The beauty of galette dough is that its imperfections add to the charm of the finished dessert. There’s no need to worry about achieving a perfect crust, as the folds and slightly uneven edges only add to the rustic, homemade look of the galette. The dough should be buttery and flaky, with just the right amount of crunch to complement the smooth frangipane filling and tender rhubarb. When baked, the galette’s crust becomes golden and crisp, providing a delicious contrast to the creamy almond filling and juicy rhubarb.

Baking the Galette

Baking a galette is a straightforward process, but there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure the best results. The key to a successful galette lies in the perfect balance between the filling and the crust. You want the crust to be golden and crisp, while the filling should be cooked through and slightly caramelized.

When baking the Frangipane Rhubarb Galette, it’s important to monitor the baking time closely, as the tart rhubarb and almond frangipane filling will need just the right amount of time in the oven to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. The galette should be baked at a high temperature, typically around 400°F (200°C), which will help the crust puff up and become crispy. It’s also a good idea to place the galette on a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure easy cleanup and prevent any sticking.

The golden, flaky crust, coupled with the tender frangipane and vibrant rhubarb, creates a dessert that is both rustic and refined. Once baked, the galette should cool slightly before serving, allowing the filling to set while the crust retains its crisp texture. You can serve the galette warm or at room temperature, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Serving and Pairing

The Frangipane Rhubarb Galette is a delightful treat on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of accompaniments to enhance the overall experience. A dollop of freshly whipped cream, lightly sweetened with a touch of vanilla, provides a creamy contrast to the tart rhubarb and rich almond frangipane. Alternatively, a scoop of vanilla ice cream can add a cool, creamy element that complements the warm galette.

For a more decadent touch, you could also drizzle the galette with a bit of honey or a fruit compote. The sweetness of the honey pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the rhubarb, while the fruit compote can enhance the natural flavors of the filling.

When it comes to pairing drinks with the Frangipane Rhubarb Galette, a light, crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Prosecco would complement the tart rhubarb beautifully. For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, a refreshing herbal tea or a chilled glass of lemonade can also be the perfect pairing.

Conclusion

The Frangipane Rhubarb Galette is a perfect dessert for those who enjoy the combination of rich, nutty flavors and tart, refreshing fruit. Its simple, rustic appearance belies the depth of flavor it offers, making it an excellent choice for any occasion, from casual gatherings to more formal celebrations. With its buttery, flaky crust, smooth almond filling, and tangy rhubarb topping, this galette is a wonderful way to showcase seasonal produce while indulging in a delicious, homemade treat.

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