Welsh-inspired Gâteau Basque

Ingredients

In this Welsh-inspired version of Gâteau Basque, we incorporate Welsh ingredients to give it a unique twist. Instead of using regular butter, we use locally sourced Welsh butter, which adds a distinct richness to the pastry. The filling is made with creamy Welsh cheese and sweet honey, providing a delightful contrast of flavors. Additionally, we sprinkle traditional Welsh sea salt on top to enhance the overall taste. We alse have the original recipe for Gâteau Basque, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (225g) Welsh butter, cold and cubed 1 cup (225g) Welsh butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (225g) creamy Welsh cheese (such as Caerphilly or Welsh cheddar) 1 cup (225g) creamy Welsh cheese (such as Caerphilly or Welsh cheddar)
• 1/4 cup (85g) honey 1/4 cup (85g) honey
• 1/4 teaspoon Welsh sea salt 1/4 teaspoon Welsh sea salt
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories: 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 22g (13g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 34g (16g sugars)
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the cold cubed Welsh butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, beat one egg and vanilla extract together. Add the beaten egg mixture to the flour mixture and mix until the dough comes together.
3. 3.
   Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
5. 5.
   In a small bowl, mix the creamy Welsh cheese and honey until well combined.
6. 6.
   Roll out one portion of the dough to fit the bottom of the cake pan. Place it in the pan and spread the cheese and honey mixture evenly over the dough.
7. 7.
   Roll out the second portion of the dough to fit the top of the cake pan. Place it over the filling and seal the edges.
8. 8.
   Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the top of the cake. Sprinkle Welsh sea salt on top.
9. 9.
   Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
10. 10.
    Allow the Gâteau Basque to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve at room temperature.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Welsh butter — Make sure the butter is cold and cubed before incorporating it into the pastry dough. This will help create a flaky texture.
• Creamy Welsh cheese — Choose a creamy Welsh cheese such as Caerphilly or Welsh cheddar for the filling. These cheeses provide a smooth and rich flavor.
• Welsh sea salt — Sprinkle a pinch of Welsh sea salt on top of the Gâteau Basque before baking to enhance the overall taste.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist, add a handful of chopped Welsh walnuts or dried berries to the filling.
• Serve the Gâteau Basque with a dollop of clotted cream or a scoop of Welsh vanilla ice cream.
• If you can't find Welsh butter, you can substitute it with high-quality unsalted butter.
• Make sure to refrigerate the dough before rolling it out to ensure it is easier to handle.
• Dust the powdered sugar just before serving to maintain its visual appeal.

Serving advice

Serve the Welsh-inspired Gâteau Basque at room temperature to fully enjoy its flavors and textures. Cut it into wedges and serve on individual dessert plates.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, dust the powdered sugar in a decorative pattern on top of the Gâteau Basque. You can also garnish each slice with a sprig of fresh mint or a drizzle of honey.