Warm Caramelized Walnut Galette

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Warm Caramelized Walnut Galette is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, nutty flavor of caramelized walnuts with a flaky, buttery crust. This rustic French pastry is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a sweet indulgence. The combination of warm walnuts and a hint of cinnamon creates a cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal dessert for chilly evenings. In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making this delicious galette, ensuring that you can impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 4-6 tablespoons ice water
  • 1 cup walnuts, chopped
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and granulated sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Caramelize the Walnuts

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter. Stir in the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Once the mixture is bubbling, add the chopped walnuts and stir to coat them evenly. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the walnuts are caramelized and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Assemble the Galette

Spread the caramelized walnuts evenly over the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges. Fold the edges of the dough over the walnuts, pleating as you go to create a rustic look. Brush the exposed dough with the beaten egg to give it a golden finish.

Step 5: Bake the Galette

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the walnuts are bubbly. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.

How do I store leftover galette?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

What can I serve with Warm Caramelized Walnut Galette?

This galette pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

You can make a vegan version by replacing the butter with a plant-based alternative and using a flax egg instead of the regular egg wash.

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