Cherry Almond Galette with Flaky Crust

There is something inherently magical about a rustic galette. It offers all the buttery, flaky satisfaction of a traditional pie without the stress of perfect crimping or lattice work. This Cherry Almond Galette is the ultimate summer dessert, featuring juicy, jammy bing cherries nestled inside a crust that shatters with every bite. The addition of almond extract and toasted slivered almonds creates a sophisticated flavor profile that elevates simple fruit into a gourmet treat. Whether you are hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a cozy Sunday baking project, this galette is your new go-to recipe for effortless elegance.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings
• Difficulty: Medium

Nutrition values

• Calories: 345 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 42g

Why Make This Cherry Almond Galette with Flaky Crust

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. Unlike a deep-dish pie, the galette’s open-face design allows the moisture from the cherries to evaporate slightly, concentrating the fruit flavor and preventing a “soupy” bottom. The crust uses a high butter-to-flour ratio, ensuring a pastry that is both sturdy enough to hold the fruit and tender enough to melt in your mouth. Plus, the combination of cherries and almonds is a classic pairing—the nuttiness of the almond enhances the natural floral notes of the stone fruit.

Ingredients

• For the Crust:
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • ¼ cup ice water
• For the Filling:
  • 4 cups fresh sweet cherries, pitted and halved
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• For the Topping:
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
• 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar (coarse sugar)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized bits of butter remaining. Gradually drizzle in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, tossing with a fork until the dough just begins to come together. Shape the dough into a flat disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Mix the Cherry Filling

While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a medium bowl, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, almond extract, and lemon juice. Toss gently to ensure all the cherries are evenly coated. The cornstarch will help thicken the juices as the galette bakes, preventing the crust from becoming soggy.

Step 3: Roll and Assemble

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. It does not need to be a perfect circle; the rough edges add to the rustic charm. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pile the cherry mixture into the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges. Gently fold the edges of the dough over the fruit, pleating it as you go to hold the filling in.

Step 4: Add Finish and Bake

Brush the folded edges of the crust with the beaten egg wash. Sprinkle the sliced almonds and turbinado sugar over the crust and the exposed fruit. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the cherry juices are bubbling. Remove from the oven and let the galette cool on the baking sheet for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cherry Almond Galette with Flaky Crust

The secret to a flaky crust is keeping the butter cold. If your kitchen is warm, put the flour and butter mixture in the freezer for 5 minutes before adding the water. When rolling out the dough, work quickly to prevent the butter from melting. For an extra layer of flavor, spread a thin layer of almond paste or frangipane on the dough before adding the fruit. Finally, always use fresh cherries when they are in season for the best texture and natural sweetness.

Delicious Variations

If you want to experiment, try swapping half of the cherries for blueberries or blackberries for a mixed-berry twist. For a chocolate lover’s version, sprinkle a handful of dark chocolate chips over the cherries before folding the crust. You can also make this recipe vegan by using a high-quality plant-based butter substitute and replacing the egg wash with a splash of almond milk. For a savory-sweet profile, add a few sprigs of fresh thyme to the cherry mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before tossing them with the sugar and cornstarch. You may need to add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch to account for the extra moisture.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom?
Baking the galette at a high temperature (400°F) helps set the bottom crust quickly. Additionally, don’t skip the cornstarch, as it binds the fruit juices into a thick syrup.

Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely. You can store the dough disk in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. If frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight before rolling.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover galette at room temperature for up to 24 hours, or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to crisp up the crust.

What should I serve with this galette?
A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is the classic choice. For something lighter, try a dollop of sweetened whipped cream or a drizzle of crème fraîche to balance the sweetness.

Conclusion

This Cherry Almond Galette is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients handled with care. Its golden, crispy edges and vibrant, flavorful center make it a showstopper on any table. By following these steps, you will master the art of the rustic tart and create a dessert that tastes like a professional bakery find. Grab some fresh cherries today and start baking!

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