Easy Galette Recipe from Food52 - Simple Elegance

There's something truly enchanting about a galette. This rustic, free-form tart captures the hearts of bakers and eaters alike with its simple elegance and forgiving nature. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice, a galette is your ticket to an impressive dessert without the fuss of a traditional pie. Here, we explore an easy galette recipe inspired by the classic techniques, perfect for showcasing seasonal fruits.

Ingredients for Your Galette

Before we delve into the steps, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for both the crust and the filling:

• For the crust:
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 3-4 tablespoons ice water
• For the filling:
  • 2-3 cups fresh fruit (like apples, pears, peaches, or berries), thinly sliced
  • 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch or tapioca flour (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice or zest
  • 1 egg for egg wash (optional)

Steps to Bake a Simple Galette

Now, let’s go through the process of assembling and baking this delightful dessert:

Prepare the Crust

1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork, just until the dough holds together when pinched.
3. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Assemble the Galette

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about a 12-inch circle, then transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Toss your fruit with sugar, cornstarch (if using), and lemon. Arrange the fruit in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the edges of the dough over the fruit, pinching to seal where needed. Brush the exposed dough with egg wash for a glossy finish.

Bake Your Galette

1. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
2. Allow the galette to cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set.

🥧 Note: If the crust seems too brittle when you start folding, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to become more pliable.

Serve Your Masterpiece

Serve the galette warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The beauty of a galette is its adaptability, both in presentation and taste, enhancing the natural flavors of the fruits you choose.

Tips for Perfecting Your Galette

• Choose ripe yet firm fruits for the best texture and flavor balance.
• Don’t overwork your dough. This ensures a flakier crust.
• If you want a crunchier bottom, consider using a preheated baking stone or bake directly on your oven rack, with parchment paper beneath for easy removal.
• Experiment with different flavors; a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a hint of cardamom can elevate your galette to new heights.

💡 Note: If you're using high-water content fruits like berries or peaches, consider adding a cornstarch slurry to prevent sogginess.

As you've seen, crafting a galette is both straightforward and a delightful way to showcase the beauty of your ingredients. This dessert captures the essence of simple elegance in its preparation and presentation, making it perfect for any occasion or as an impromptu treat. The versatility of the galette allows you to experiment with different seasonal fruits, ensuring you can savor this dish all year round. With every bite, you'll appreciate the interplay of textures between the flaky, buttery crust and the tender, flavorful filling.

Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh for the galette?

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Yes, you can use frozen fruit, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid first. This prevents the galette from becoming too soggy. Consider adding extra cornstarch to compensate for the added moisture.

How long will the galette keep after baking?

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The galette can be stored at room temperature, loosely covered, for about 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 4 days or freeze it, well-wrapped, for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore its flakiness.

Can I make the galette dough ahead of time?

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Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freeze it for up to 2 months. Just allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen before rolling out.