Gateau Cake 🎂

Certainly! Here's a detailed and human-friendly recipe for a classic gateau cake:

Classic Gateau Cake Recipe

Ingredients

For the Sponge Cake:

- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour

- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

- 4 large eggs, at room temperature

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

- 1/2 tsp baking powder

- 1/4 tsp salt

- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk

- 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling and Topping:

- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream, chilled

- 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

- 2 cups fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, etc.)

- 1/4 cup (60ml) berry jam (optional)

- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sponge Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer on high speed until thick and pale, about 5 minutes.

4. Gradually add the sugar to the eggs, beating until the mixture is fluffy and light.

5. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

6. Gently fold in the flour mixture using a spatula until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.

7. In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter is melted. Gradually fold this mixture into the batter until well combined.

8. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.

9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Filling and Topping:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

2. Wash and dry the berries. If using strawberries, hull and slice them.

3. Assemble the Gateau Cake:

1. If the cakes have domed tops, level them with a serrated knife to make them flat.

2. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of berry jam on top (optional).

3. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the jam.

4. Arrange a layer of mixed berries over the whipped cream.

5. Place the second cake layer on top.

6. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream over the entire cake to create a crumb coat. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

7. Once the crumb coat is set, spread the remaining whipped cream evenly over the top and sides of the cake.

8. Decorate the top with more berries and garnish with chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder, if desired.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

1. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cream to set.

2. Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy your delicious gateau cake!

Tips:

- Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for a better rise in the sponge.

- Be gentle when folding the flour to keep the batter airy.

- Chill the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream for best results.

- Customize the cake with your favorite fruits or flavors.

Bon appétit!