Quatre Quarts Cake: A Delicious French Butter Cake
A delightful French classic, the Quatre Quarts cake is incredibly simple yet full of flavor. This rich, buttery dessert is a perfect treat for those who appreciate traditional desserts with minimal ingredients. Inspired by the principle of “equal parts,” this cake combines flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, resulting in a beautifully moist cake with a delicate crumb. Whether served with a cup of tea or enjoyed as an afternoon snack, the Quatre Quarts is sure to impress with its soft texture and rich vanilla aroma.
Ingredients for Quatre Quarts Cake
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 160g |
| All-purpose Flour | 160g |
| Granulated Sugar | 160g |
| Butter (melted) | 160g |
| Baking Powder | 8g |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | A pinch |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 16g |
| Sodium | 75mg |
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredients used.
Instructions for Preparing Quatre Quarts Cake
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Prepare the Ingredients
Start by melting the butter. You can do this in the microwave or using a double boiler. Once melted, set it aside to cool slightly. -
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar. Add in the vanilla extract, or alternatively, you can use the seeds from a vanilla pod for an even richer flavor. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on high speed until it becomes pale and frothy. -
Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Sift the all-purpose flour and baking powder together. Then, gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, one tablespoon at a time. Mix until fully combined, ensuring there are no lumps. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. -
Add the Butter
Once the flour mixture has been incorporated into the batter, slowly pour in the melted butter. Continue to mix until the batter is smooth and well-blended. -
Prepare the Baking Pan
Butter and flour a rectangular loaf pan (about 26 x 11.5 cm in size and 7.5 cm deep). This will help the cake release easily once it’s done baking. -
Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F) in static mode. Pour the prepared batter into the loaf pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Bake the cake for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. -
Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly in the pan. Then, transfer it onto a serving plate. Allow the Quatre Quarts to cool completely before slicing and serving. It can be enjoyed as is or paired with a dusting of powdered sugar or fresh fruit.
Additional Tips
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Customization: If you’d like to add a personal twist to this classic cake, you can experiment with adding citrus zest, dried fruits, or even a few handfuls of chocolate chips to the batter for extra flavor.
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Serving Suggestions: Quatre Quarts pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. It can also be enjoyed with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh berries for a more decadent dessert experience.
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Storage: This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. It also freezes well if you want to save some for later.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Quatre Quarts cake is the epitome of simplicity, yet it offers a delightful, moist crumb that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, it’s an ideal recipe for novice bakers or those looking to make something quick but delicious. Its rich butter flavor and delicate texture will transport you straight to the heart of France. Give it a try and let its classic charm win you over!
Enjoy baking this timeless French dessert, and feel free to experiment with different flavors or toppings to make it your own!
