I’m absolutely thrilled to share one of my most favorite recipes with you – Basque cake! This creamy dessert is a delightful treat that always brings a smile to my face. I first stumbled upon this cake during a trip to the Basque region, where I was instantly captivated by its unique blend of flavors and textures. The buttery crust encases a luscious filling, and every bite feels like a little slice of heaven. Plus, it’s a wonderful recipe to whip up when you’re looking to impress your friends at a gathering or simply indulge in a well-deserved piece of cake on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
What I love most about Basque cake is that it’s not overly sweet, making it perfect to accompany a cup of coffee or tea. And let’s be honest, it just looks so darn impressive! I thought it would be difficult to make, but once I nailed it, I knew I’d found a recipe I could proudly share with others.
What’s in Basque Cake?
Flour: The foundation of our cake, all-purpose flour works perfectly for the tender crumb we want. I usually choose a good brand like King Arthur or Bob’s Red Mill for the best results.
Butter: Ah, the key player in any delicious cake! Unsalted butter gives the perfect richness and helps create a flaky texture. I prefer using European-style butter for its higher fat content, which takes the cake to a whole new level.
Sugar: A bit of granulated sugar not only sweetens the cake but also contributes to its lovely golden color when baked. I typically use plain white sugar, but you could try brown sugar for a deeper flavor profile.
Eggs: These little wonders help bind everything together and give the cake its lovely structure. Fresh, large eggs are the way to go!
Almond Paste: This is the real star of the show. It adds a rich, sweet, and nutty flavor that makes Basque cake so distinctive. I love using Odense almond paste for its smooth texture and flavor.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract enhances the flavor, making everything taste just that much better. Always go for pure vanilla over the imitation stuff!
Is Basque Cake Good for You?
Well, it’s certainly a treat! Basque cake can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Almond Paste: Almonds are a great source of healthy fats, fiber, and protein. They can be beneficial for heart health and help to keep you feeling full.
Butter: While butter does add saturated fat to your diet, using it in moderation along with a varied diet can be fine. It’s all about balance!
One thing to keep in mind is that this cake is definitely on the indulgent side. So when you treat yourself to a slice, just make sure to enjoy it mindfully!
Ingredients for Basque Cake (Serves 8)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup almond paste
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt (to taste)
How to Make Basque Cake?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan, or you can line it with parchment paper for easy release.
2. In a bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes with an electric mixer.
3. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Blend in the almond paste, breaking it up with your hands to make sure it combines well with the butter and sugar mixture.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.
6. Gradually add in the flour and salt to the mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix!
7. Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth it out.
8. Spoon a layer of almond paste over the first layer and then top with the remaining batter, spreading it evenly.
9. Bake in your preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Basque Cake
– If you like a more pronounced almond flavor, you can add almond extract to the batter.
– Keep an eye on the baking time, as it can vary depending on your oven.
– Feel free to sprinkle some powdered sugar on top before serving for a beautiful finish!
– This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or fresh berries!
I can’t stress enough how delightful Basque cake is, and I genuinely think you’ll fall in love with it just as I have. It truly embodies comfort and warmth and holds a special place in my heart. So why not give it a try and enjoy a slice, or two? I’d love to hear how it turns out for you – happy baking!