Basque-style Gâteau de Ménage

Ingredients

In this Basque-style adaptation of Gâteau de Ménage, we incorporate Basque spices and ingredients to infuse the cake with the unique flavors of Basque cuisine. This includes the use of Espelette pepper, a staple in Basque cooking, which adds a mild heat and smoky undertones to the cake. Additionally, we replace some of the traditional ingredients with Basque alternatives, such as using Basque butter and local honey to enhance the richness and depth of flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Gâteau de ménage, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups (340g) Basque butter, softened 1 1/2 cups (340g) Basque butter, softened
• 1 1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar 1 1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Espelette pepper 1/2 teaspoon Espelette pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
• 2 tablespoons Basque honey 2 tablespoons Basque honey
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 14g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 26g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a round cake pan.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, cream together the Basque butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, Espelette pepper, and salt.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk.
6. 6.
   Stir in the Basque honey until well combined.
7. 7.
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
8. 8.
   Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. 9.
   Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. 10.
    Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Basque butter — The use of Basque butter adds a distinct richness to the cake. If Basque butter is not available, you can substitute with high-quality unsalted butter.
• Espelette pepper — Espelette pepper is a key ingredient in Basque cuisine, providing a mild heat and smoky flavor. If you can't find Espelette pepper, you can use a combination of paprika and cayenne pepper as a substitute.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of Basque flavor, you can sprinkle some ground cinnamon on top of the cake before dusting it with powdered sugar.
• Serve the Basque-style Gâteau de Ménage with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
• To enhance the presentation, you can garnish the cake with fresh berries or a drizzle of Basque honey.

Serving advice

Serve the Basque-style Gâteau de Ménage at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. Cut the cake into slices and serve on individual dessert plates.

Presentation advice

To present the Basque-style Gâteau de Ménage beautifully, dust the serving plates with a sprinkle of powdered sugar before placing the cake slices. You can also add a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant touch.