Discover the classic recipe for Gâteau de Mamie, a beloved traditional sponge cake perfect for any occasion. Light, fluffy, and versatile, this French sponge cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or your favorite jam. Learn how to make this timeless dessert with our step-by-step guide and enjoy a slice of nostalgia.

Ingredients:

- 4 large eggs

- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour

- 1 tsp baking powder

- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

- A pinch of salt

- Optional: Fresh fruit or jam for serving

Instructions:

Preheat Oven:

  - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.

Prepare the Batter:

  - In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy.

  - Sift the flour and baking powder together. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined.

  - Gradually fold in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Be careful not to overmix.

Bake:

  - Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.

  - Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Cool and Serve:

  - Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

  - Serve the Gâteau de Mamie plain, or top with fresh fruit or a dollop of jam for extra flavor.

Enjoy this delightful sponge cake as a simple yet elegant treat for any occasion!

Nutritional Values

Eggs (4 large):

- Calories: 280 kcal

- Protein: 24g

- Fat: 20g

- Carbohydrates: 2g

- Cholesterol: 680mg

Benefits:

- High-Quality Protein: Eggs provide essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.

- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: They are an excellent source of vitamins A, D, E, and B12, as well as minerals like iron and selenium.

- Choline: Supports brain health and liver function.

Granulated Sugar (1 cup / 200g):

- Calories: 774 kcal

- Carbohydrates: 200g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

Benefits:

- Energy Source: Provides quick energy as it is easily absorbed into the bloodstream.

- Versatility: Used to enhance flavor and texture in baking.

All-Purpose Flour (1 cup / 125g):

- Calories: 455 kcal

- Protein: 13g

- Carbohydrates: 95g

- Fat: 1g

- Fiber: 3g

Benefits:

- Carbohydrates: Provides energy needed for daily activities.

- Fortified Varieties: Some all-purpose flours are fortified with additional vitamins and minerals like iron.

Baking Powder (1 tsp):

- Calories: 6 kcal

- Carbohydrates: 1.2g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Sodium: 488mg

Benefits:

- Leavening Agent: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy by releasing carbon dioxide.

Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup / 115g):

- Calories: 810 kcal

- Fat: 92g

- Saturated Fat: 58g

- Cholesterol: 256mg

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 1g

Benefits:

- Flavor and Texture: Adds richness and a tender crumb to baked goods.

- Vitamin A: Supports vision, immune function, and skin health.

Vanilla Extract (1 tsp):

- Calories: 12 kcal

- Carbohydrates: 1g

- Fat: 0g

- Protein: 0g

Benefits:

- Flavor Enhancer: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.

- Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants that may have beneficial effects on health.

Salt (a pinch):

- Calories: 0 kcal

- Sodium: 0-200mg (depending on amount used)

Benefits:

- Flavor Enhancer: Enhances the flavors of other ingredients.

- Electrolyte Balance: Helps maintain fluid balance and nerve function.

Note: The nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient variations.