Gâteau Breton, also known as Breton butter cake, is a traditional dessert hailing from the Brittany region in north-western France. Renowned for its dense, buttery texture and subtly sweet flavour, this cake has become a beloved treat both in France and internationally.thebakingwizard.com+3Tasting Table+3Eat More Butter+3
🧈 What Is Gâteau Breton?
Gâteau Breton is a rustic, shortbread-like cake made primarily from butter, sugar, egg yolks, and flour. Its rich, dense consistency sets it apart from lighter sponge cakes, offering a satisfying bite that pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. Traditionally, the cake is baked in a round or square pan and often adorned with a crisscross pattern on top.The Feedfeed
While the classic version is plain, many variations incorporate fruit preserves, such as black cherry or apricot jam, sandwiched between layers of dough, adding a delightful contrast to the buttery base. The Feedfeed
🍰 Ingredients
To prepare a traditional Gâteau Breton, you will need:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (225g) salted butter, softened
- 1 whole egg + 4 egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ cup fruit jam (optional, for layering)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.Nefarious Cellars+1The Feedfeed+1
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the whole egg and egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Divide the dough into two portions: one slightly larger than the other.
- Press the larger portion into the bottom of the prepared pan, smoothing it into an even layer.
- If using jam, spread it evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll out the remaining dough between two sheets of parchment paper and place it over the jam layer, sealing the edges gently.The Feedfeed
- Decorate and Bake:
- Using a fork, lightly score the top of the cake in a crisscross pattern.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
🧠 Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Butter: Since butter is the primary ingredient, using high-quality salted butter enhances the flavour of the cake.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, well-incorporated dough.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough becomes too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before rolling out.
- Fruit Variations: Experiment with different fruit jams or fresh fruits to customise the flavour to your liking.
🍷 Pairing Suggestions
Gâteau Breton pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages:Wikipedia+7The Feedfeed+7thebakingwizard.com+7
- Tea: A strong black tea, such as Earl Grey or Assam, complements the richness of the cake.
- Coffee: A freshly brewed cup of coffee balances the sweetness and enhances the flavours.
- Wine: A light, fruity white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, can provide a refreshing contrast.
Gâteau Breton is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of French heritage that brings a taste of Brittany to your table. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack or as a special treat for guests, this cake is sure to impress with its rich flavour and satisfying texture.