
Basque cake, also known in French as Gâteau Basque, is a traditional dessert from the Basque region of France and Spain. The origins of the Basque cake can be traced back to the 17th century, when it was originally prepared by Basque housewives in their homes.
A traditional Basque cake is a simple but delicious pastry consisting of a buttery, crumbly pastry filled with creamy custard or sweet fruit preserves. The most common Basque cake filling is a thick layer of cherry or apricot jam, but other options may include pastry cream, almond cream or even dark chocolate.
The Basque cake method involves making a dough from scratch, which usually consists of flour, sugar, butter, eggs and sometimes ground almonds. The dough is then rolled out and placed in a tart pan with a layer of filling placed on top. The top crust is often decorated with a crisscross of fork tines or a lattice pattern.
Once assembled, the pie is baked in the oven until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. Basque pie is usually served at room temperature and can be enjoyed as a dessert or teatime treat.
Overall, Basque cake is a beloved traditional dessert that showcases the culinary heritage of the Basque region and continues to be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.