French King Cake with Nuts (Galette des Rois)

Instructions

1. In a food processor, process the nuts, ground almonds and sugar into a fine powder. Add the butter and process until the mixture is very smooth. Add 3 of the eggs, one at a time and blend until smooth. Add the cream and pulse until just incorporated. Transfer to a bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours or until very firm.
2. Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper.
3. On a floured work surface, roll out the dough into two disks, each 11 inches (28 cm) in diameter. Place on the baking sheet. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
4. With the rack in the middle position, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. In a small bowl, beat the remaining egg.
6. Spread the filling on one disc of dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border of dough intact. Brush this border with the beaten egg. Insert the bean into the filling. Cover with the second disc of dough and press firmly all around to seal the edges of the dough.
7. Cut around the circumference of the dough for a uniform disc, if needed.
8. Draw several curved lines in the dough without piercing it, starting from the middle outward. Pierce a hole in the centre to allow steam to escape. Brush with the egg and sprinkle with sugar.
9. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the cake is golden brown. Let cool completely.