A true tradition dating back to the 14th century, Epiphany brings together young and old around the essential and delicious King Cake (galette des rois). This Christian holiday, which celebrates the arrival of the Messiah in the world and the visit of the Three Wise Men, falls this year on Saturday, January 6, 2018.
However, as the biblical date is not a public holiday, it is customary to celebrate it on the first Sunday after the 1st of January. This year, that falls tomorrow, Sunday, January 7.
As we begin 2018, I’d like to share my small selection of cakes for this first celebration of the year, and I also wish you to finish this convivial moment with a crown on your head, if possible…
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My small selection of King Cakes
Of course, this selection is by no means exhaustive and only concerns the few cakes that I have had the opportunity to taste.
The Sève house cake
I am a huge fan of the red praline King Cake from the iconic Lyon master chocolatier and pastry chef, Richard Sève. I think it is difficult to find it anywhere other than in Lyon, but it is my personal favorite!
Sève, master chocolatier and pastry chef / Lyon Price: from €17.50 to €59.90 depending on size Trinket sale prices: €4.50 individually / €13 for a box of 3 / €55 for a box of 13 available in stores starting January 2, 2017
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The Monoprix cake by Christophe Adam
This cake features frangipane and salted butter caramel with Guérande fleur de sel. It is a collaboration with the famous chef Christophe Adam from Eclair de Génie, and incidentally, the trinkets (fèves) in these cakes are shaped like éclairs!
The tip / the yellow diamond contest: among all the cakes sold at Monoprix, 10 winning trinkets have been hidden inside, which will allow winners to receive a diamond of at least 0.5 carats (valued at €1920).
Monoprix cake price: 530g cake for €15.50
Available since December 11 at Monoprix_
The cake from Version Originale pastry shop
Version Originale is the beautiful establishment in Issy-Les-Moulineaux run by two enthusiasts: Maxime Olivier (formerly of Michalak, Eddie Benghamen, Carl Marletti) and Alexandre Verrier (formerly of Jean-Paul Hévin for 18 years!).
In their shop, they offer high-end products with special attention to quality ingredients. The praline frangipane version with whole hazelnuts completely won us over, along with my favorite photographer! It’s truly amazing!
Version Originale 42 rue Danton 92130 Issy-les-Moulineaux Price: €22 for 4 people / €33 for 6 people / €44 for 8 people
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If you have any great addresses, a preference, or tips for finding the best King Cake, don’t hesitate to leave a little comment to share your top pick! And happy Epiphany to everyone!
Photo credits: Nicolas Diolez Photos are not royalty-free; the photographer's authorization is mandatory before any use
