How to Make Gâteau Basque – A Traditional French Basque Cake Recipe

 

Looking for a unique French dessert that’s both rustic and refined? Say hello to the Gâteau Basque – a beloved regional cake from the Basque Country, nestled between France and Spain. Filled with either creamy pastry cream or cherry jam, this buttery cake boasts a golden crust and a soft, tender interior. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make Gâteau Basque step-by-step using British English, complete with SEO-friendly keywords and top baking tips.

--- published by foodie Parmod.

🇫🇷 What Is Gâteau Basque?

Gâteau Basque is a traditional dessert from the French Basque region. It’s made with a rich, sweet dough similar to shortcrust pastry, known as pâte sucrée. The cake is typically filled with vanilla pastry cream or black cherry jam, then baked until golden and slightly crisp. This cake is often served as a teatime treat or a dessert and is a proud symbol of Basque culinary heritage.

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🛒 Ingredients

For the pastry dough (pâte sucrée):

250g plain flour

150g unsalted butter (cold, cubed)

100g caster sugar

1 egg + 1 egg yolk (for brushing)

1 tsp vanilla extract or zest of 1 lemon

Pinch of salt

For the pastry cream filling:

250ml whole milk

2 egg yolks

50g caster sugar

20g cornflour

½ tsp vanilla extract

OR use 150g of good-quality black cherry jam for a fruity version.

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🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the pastry dough

1. In a large bowl, rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

2. Stir in the sugar, salt, and lemon zest or vanilla.

3. Add the whole egg and mix gently until the dough just comes together – do not overwork.

4. Divide into two portions (one slightly larger than the other), wrap in cling film, and chill for at least 1 hour.

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2. Prepare the pastry cream (if using)

1. In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornflour until smooth.

2. Heat the milk in a saucepan until just boiling, then slowly whisk into the egg mixture.

3. Return the mixture to the pan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened.

4. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and let cool completely. Cover with cling film touching the surface to avoid a skin forming.

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3. Assemble the Gâteau Basque

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / Gas Mark 4.

2. Grease and line the base of a 20cm round tart tin or cake tin.

3. Roll out the larger piece of dough and gently press it into the tin, covering the base and sides.

4. Spread the cooled pastry cream or cherry jam evenly over the base.

5. Roll out the second piece of dough and place it on top, sealing the edges by pinching or pressing with a fork.

6. Brush with beaten egg yolk for a glossy finish. Optionally, score a criss-cross or spiral pattern on top using a knife for decoration.

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4. Bake and cool

1. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and firm to the touch.

2. Cool completely in the tin before removing and slicing. The flavour improves after resting for a few hours.

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🍰 Serving Suggestions

Slice and serve Gâteau Basque with a cup of coffee or tea.

Add a spoonful of whipped cream or fresh berries for a café-style dessert.

It travels well and makes a great picnic or lunchbox treat.

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💡 Tips for the Perfect Gâteau Basque

Chill the dough well – this helps prevent it from shrinking while baking.

If using jam, go for Basque black cherry jam or a thick, good-quality cherry preserve.

Let the cake cool before slicing for a cleaner presentation and better flavour.

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❄️ Storage

Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

It can also be kept in the fridge but should be brought to room temperature before serving.

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🔍 

Learn how to make Gâteau Basque, the classic French Basque cake filled with pastry cream or cherry jam. Easy recipe in British English with baking tips and variations.

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💬 Final Thoughts

Now you know how to make Gâteau Basque, you can enjoy this deliciously unique French dessert at home. Whether you choose the creamy or fruity version, its rich flavour, golden crust, and rustic charm make it a crowd-pleaser for all occasions.

--- write ✍️  foodie Parmod.