Dorset Delight Gâteau

Ingredients

The Dorset Delight Gâteau takes inspiration from the traditional Gâteau Nantais but incorporates Dorset-specific ingredients and flavors. While the original recipe uses rum, the Dorset version replaces it with a delicate elderflower syrup, adding a unique floral note. Additionally, the use of locally sourced honey enhances the sweetness of the almond sponge, giving it a distinct Dorset touch. We alse have the original recipe for Gâteau Nantais, so you can check it out.

• 200g (1 3/4 cups) ground almonds 200g (1 3/4 cups) ground almonds
• 200g (1 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour 200g (1 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp Dorset honey 2 tbsp Dorset honey
• 100ml (1/2 cup) elderflower syrup 100ml (1/2 cup) elderflower syrup
• 200g (1 cup) Dorset clotted cream 200g (1 cup) Dorset clotted cream
• Fresh seasonal berries, for garnish Fresh seasonal berries, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat: 25g (total), 12g (saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 34g (total), 20g (sugars)
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a round cake tin.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated 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, combine the ground almonds, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
6. 6.
   Stir in the Dorset honey, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. 7.
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. 8.
   Bake for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. 9.
   While the cake is still warm, poke several holes on the surface using a skewer and drizzle the elderflower syrup over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
10. 10.
    Allow the cake to cool completely in the tin before transferring it to a serving plate.
11. 11.
    Once cooled, spread a generous layer of Dorset clotted cream over the top of the cake.
12. 12.
    Garnish with fresh seasonal berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
13. 13.
    Serve slices of the Dorset Delight Gâteau and enjoy the harmonious blend of French and Dorset flavors.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Ensure the ground almonds are fresh and finely ground for a smooth texture in the cake batter.
• Dorset honey — Use a high-quality, locally sourced honey to enhance the flavor of the cake.
• Elderflower syrup — If elderflower syrup is not available, you can make your own by infusing elderflower blossoms in a simple syrup.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of elderflower liqueur to the syrup before drizzling it over the cake.
• Serve the Dorset Delight Gâteau with a dollop of clotted cream on the side for an extra indulgence.
• Experiment with different seasonal berries for the garnish to add variety and visual appeal.
• To make the cake even more moist, brush the layers with additional elderflower syrup before spreading the clotted cream.
• If you prefer a stronger almond flavor, add a few drops of almond extract to the batter.

Serving advice

Serve the Dorset Delight Gâteau at room temperature to allow the flavors to fully develop. Accompany each slice with a spoonful of clotted cream and a few fresh berries for a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

Presentation advice

Present the Dorset Delight Gâteau on a decorative cake stand or platter. Dust the top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Arrange fresh berries around the base of the cake to create a visually appealing display.