Gateaux Lait

Gateaux Lait, or Milk Cake, is a classic French dessert known for its rich and creamy texture. This delightful cake has its roots in the Normandy region of France, famous for its dairy products. The name translates directly to "Milk Cake," emphasizing the importance of high-quality milk in its creation. Normandy's lush pastures and temperate climate provide the perfect conditions for dairy farming, lending its milk cake a unique richness unparalleled by other regional varieties.

Ingredients

• Butter
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Whole milk

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan with butter.
2. In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour and baking powder.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with whole milk.
7. Pour batter into the prepared cake pan.

Cooking Process

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. It is always good to set a cooking timer to keep track of the time.
2. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and Enjoyment

Gateaux Lait is best served slightly warm, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly with each bite. This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an added touch of luxury, drizzle with caramel sauce. Perfect for cozy afternoons with a cup of Earl Grey tea or as a comforting dessert after dinner.

Gateaux Lait embodies the qualities of love and warmth from its origins in Normandy. Every region in France prides itself on its culinary specialties, and this milk cake serves as a charming reminder of the comfortable haven that homemade desserts can provide. Whether enjoyed on a rainy day or shared amongst family and friends, Gateaux Lait remains a timeless delicacy that continues to enchant those who savor its gentle sweetness.