Imagine yourself nestled in a charming French village, the scent of fresh bread and pastries wafting from a nearby boulangerie.
You take a seat at a quaint cafe, sunlight dappling through the window, and a plate arrives holding a golden slice of cake.
This, my friend, is your introduction to the Breton Butter Cake Recipe, a dessert that embodies the rustic charm and rich flavors of Brittany.
The Gateau Breton is more than just a dessert; it’s a taste of tradition. Its origins can be traced back to the resourceful people of Brittany, who used readily available ingredients like flour, butter, and eggs to create a comforting and satisfying treat.
The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity. No fancy ingredients, no complicated techniques, just pure, unadulterated flavor.
So, are you ready to take a bite out of Brittany? Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the magic of the Breton Butter Cake.
Why Is It Called Butter Cake?
The name “Butter Cake” is derived from its key ingredient: butter. This cake is renowned for its rich, buttery flavor and tender texture, which are achieved through the generous use of butter in the recipe.
Unlike other types of cake where butter may be supplemented with oil or other fats, Butter Cake highlights the luxurious taste and mouthfeel of butter, making it a true indulgence for pastry enthusiasts.
About the Recipe
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: French
Yield: 8 serving
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Spatula
- Rolling pin
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cake flour (not self-rising)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Bake It Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Work is Key
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line the bottom of your cake pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mix aside.
2. Creaming the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer, or a good 5-7 minutes by hand (great arm workout!).
3. Introducing the Eggs
Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, making sure each yolk is fully incorporated before adding the next. Once all the yolks are in, stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Bringing it Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix – a few streaks of flour are perfectly fine.
5. Shaping and Baking
Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough into a circle about ½ inch thick. Gently transfer the dough to your prepared cake pan and press it down to evenly distribute it.
Use a fork to prick the top of the dough a few times. Bake the cake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. A Touch of Sweetness (Optional)
While the cake cools, you can whip up a simple glaze by mixing together 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar with a splash of milk or lemon juice. Drizzle this over the cooled cake for a touch of extra sweetness.
Nutrition Facts Breton Butter Cake Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Fat | 30g |
| Saturated Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Sugar | 25g |
| Protein | 5g |
Why Is My Butter Cake Hard?
If your butter cake turns out hard, several factors could be at play. Over mixing the batter can lead to the development of too much gluten, resulting in a dense and tough texture.
Additionally, baking the cake at too high a temperature or for too long can cause it to dry out and become hard.
Insufficient moisture in the batter or using expired or low-quality ingredients may also contribute to a tough cake.
To ensure a soft and tender butter cake, follow the recipe closely, avoid overmixing, and monitor the baking time and temperature carefully.
Can I Keep Freeze?
Yes, you can freeze Breton Butter Cake Recipe for later enjoyment. To freeze the cake, allow it to cool completely after baking.
Then, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and moisture loss. Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container or freezer bag to further protect it from freezer odors.
Stored this way, butter cake can be kept in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
Once thawed, you can reheat slices in the microwave or oven for a warm and delicious treat.
Conclusion
With its buttery richness and subtle sweetness, the Breton Butter Cake Recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients.
It’s a cake that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones, a delightful accompaniment to afternoon tea, or a decadent treat to savor all on your own.
So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and embark on this delicious journey. You might just discover your new favorite French dessert.