How to Make a Classic French Gâteau de Mamie

Gâteau de Mamie, or Grandmother’s Cake, is a beloved classic in French cuisine, known for its simplicity and rich flavor. This cake embodies the essence of home baking and is perfect for any occasion. Here’s how to make a delightful Gâteau de Mamie that will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients You Will Need

To make a classic Gâteau de Mamie, gather the following ingredients:

  • 200g of all-purpose flour
  • 200g of granulated sugar
  • 200g of unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • A pinch of salt
  • Zest of one lemon (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a round cake pan with butter and lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes.

3. Add the Eggs

One at a time, add the eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Ensure that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

4. Incorporate Vanilla and Lemon Zest

Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest if you’re using it. These ingredients add a lovely aroma and flavor to the cake.

5. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s important to keep the batter light and airy.

6. Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve the Gâteau de Mamie plain or dusted with powdered sugar for a classic touch. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.

Tips for the Perfect Gâteau de Mamie

  • Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Experiment with flavors by adding chocolate chips or your favorite fruits.
  • For a moister cake, consider adding a splash of milk or yogurt to the batter.

This Gâteau de Mamie recipe is a delightful way to bring a taste of France into your home kitchen. Its simplicity is what makes it special, and it’s a cake that evokes memories of family gatherings and warm afternoons. Enjoy baking and sharing this classic treat!