Le Gteau Payernois (Payernois Cake)
If you’re on the hunt for a delightful, nutty cake that melts in your mouth, look no further than Le Gteau Payernois, or Payernois Cake. This French delicacy hails from the Payerne region and is a beloved treat for its rich flavor and simple preparation. Made with ground hazelnuts, this cake has a unique texture and taste that will impress your family and friends. Whether served with coffee or at a festive gathering, this cake is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Le Gteau Payernois is not just another cake; it is a heavenly blend of flavors and textures. Here’s what makes it special:
- Rich hazelnut flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry.
- Easy to prepare, making it suitable for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Versatile – enjoy it as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat.
- A beautiful presentation that looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredient Notes
To make Le Gteau Payernois, you will need the following ingredients:
- 150g butter: Use unsalted butter for a rich flavor.
- 100g sugar: Granulated sugar will work best for sweetness.
- 1 pinch of salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 150g flour: All-purpose flour provides structure to the cake.
- 125g ground hazelnuts: The star of this cake, adding nutty depth.
- 80g sugar: For the cream topping, ensuring a sweet finish.
- 10g vanilla sugar (1 sachet): Adds a lovely vanilla aroma.
- 150ml cream: Heavy cream is ideal for a luscious topping.
Before You Start: Equipment
Before diving into the recipe, gather the following equipment:
- Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
- Whisk: To mix and aerate the batter.
- Spatula: For folding ingredients gently.
- Cake pan: A round or square pan, greased and ready.
- Oven: Preheated to the right temperature for baking.
Make Le Gteau Payernois (Payernois Cake): A Simple Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that the cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the 150g butter and 100g sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter, yielding a lighter cake.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the 1 pinch of salt, 150g flour, and 125g ground hazelnuts to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Topping
While the cake is cooling, whip the 150ml cream in a bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add 80g sugar and 10g vanilla sugar, continuing to whip until the cream is thick and holds its shape.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the whipped cream evenly on top. For added flair, consider garnishing with additional ground hazelnuts or chocolate shavings. Slice and serve, enjoying each delicious bite of your Payernois Cake!
International Equivalents
For those outside of Europe, here are some helpful conversions:
- 150g butter: approximately 5.3 ounces
- 100g sugar: approximately 3.5 ounces
- 150g flour: approximately 5.3 ounces
- 125g ground hazelnuts: approximately 4.4 ounces
- 150ml cream: approximately 5.1 fluid ounces
- 80g sugar: approximately 2.8 ounces
- 10g vanilla sugar: approximately 0.35 ounces
Pro Perspective
Le Gteau Payernois is a delightful cake that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients. The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in the balance between the ground hazelnuts and flour. Make sure to sift the flour to avoid lumps, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of nuts if you’re feeling adventurous! A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the whipped cream can enhance the flavors beautifully, adding a touch of sophistication to your dessert.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
To keep your Payernois Cake fresh:
- Store: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have leftover cream, store it separately in the refrigerator.
- Freeze: You can freeze the uniced cake for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheat: If you prefer your cake warm, simply pop individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds until just warmed through. Be careful not to overheat!
Le Gteau Payernois (Payernois Cake) Q&A
Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
Absolutely! While hazelnuts are traditional, feel free to experiment with almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a different flavor profile.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend has a good structure to support the cake.
Can I add chocolate to this recipe?
Yes! Adding chocolate chips to the batter or drizzling melted chocolate over the whipped cream topping can elevate the cake to another level of indulgence.
What other toppings pair well with Le Gteau Payernois?
Fresh fruits like raspberries or strawberries complement the cake beautifully. You can also consider a dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture.
Before You Go
As you embark on making Le Gteau Payernois, remember that baking is as much about the experience as it is about the end result. Enjoy the process, take in the aromas, and share your creation with loved ones. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and a testament to the art of simple baking.
In conclusion, Le Gteau Payernois (Payernois Cake) is a deliciously nutty cake that is sure to impress anyone who tries it. With its easy preparation and delightful taste, it’s a perfect addition to any gathering or a sweet treat for yourself. Enjoy every bite of this beautiful cake, and don’t forget to share the joy with others! Happy baking!
Le Gteau Payernois (Payernois Cake)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Step 2: Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 3: Gradually add the salt, flour, and ground hazelnuts, mixing gently.
- Step 4: Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Step 5: Whip the cream until soft peaks form, then add sugar and vanilla sugar.
- Step 6: Once the cake is cool, spread the whipped cream on top and serve.
Notes
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze the uniced cake for up to a month, tightly wrapped.
- Warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
