Pecan Glazed Apple Galette: A Rustic French Delight with a Modern Twist

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The Pecan Glazed Apple Galette is a delightful homage to rustic French baking, bringing together the warmth of autumn apples with the nutty richness of pecans. Originating from the French countryside, the galette is a free-form pastry known for its imperfection and rustic charm. This dish combines the classic comfort of baked apples with the sophistication of a delicate butter pastry, all topped with a tantalizing pecan glaze that adds both texture and flavor. Perfect for cozy family gatherings or as a centerpiece for a festive feast, this galette is bound to captivate both the eyes and the taste buds.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:
– 4 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Pecan Glaze:
– 1/3 cup pecans, roughly chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– A pinch of salt

Optional:
– Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the chilled cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form it into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Filling:
1. In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and flour. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Roll Out the Dough:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.

4. Assemble the Galette:
1. Place the apple filling in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border. Arrange the apples as you like for visual appeal.
2. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating as necessary, to encase the apples slightly.

5. Bake:
1. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.

6. Prepare the Pecan Glaze:
1. While the galette bakes, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and honey, bringing it to a simmer.
2. Add pecans, heavy cream, and salt, continuing to simmer for a few minutes until thickened.

7. Finish the Galette:
1. Remove the galette from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle the warm pecan glaze over the top, allowing it to seep into the nooks of the apples.

Cooking Tips and Serving Suggestions:
– Tip: Use a combination of apple varieties for a more complex flavor.
– Serving Suggestion: This galette is divine served warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
– Pairing Idea: Pair with a spicy ginger beer or a lightly sweet Riesling to complement the warm, earthy tones of the pecan glaze.

Enjoy the delicious symphony of flavors and textures that this Pecan Glazed Apple Galette brings to your table — a treat for any occasion to celebrate the art of rustic French baking with a modern, nutty twist!
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