Basque Cake, the best places to taste it

For breakfast, dessert or snack, Basque cake can be enjoyed at any time of the day. A golden crust, a melting center and a deliciously buttery dough... Addicted? You will quickly become one!

The Basque Cake, a timeless story

It's difficult to imagine Basque gastronomy without this famous pastry ! And yet, the Basque cake did not always exist since it appeared on the markets in Cambo-les-Bains only in 1830 and under another name, that of “ bistotxak ”. Sold by Hirigoyen, a pastry chef nicknamed “ the Basque girl with cakes ”, it was a great success and quickly became the guilty pleasure of gourmet Basques. His origin ? The story goes that Hirigoyen keeps the recipe from his grandmother, and passes it on to his daughters who carefully preserve this precious and delicious secret.

Basque Cake, the secrets of an unmissable treat

What a pleasure to taste a part of this pastry with crispy and shortcrust pastry , with a soft and melting heart while the butter melts gently under the tongue... To achieve this delicious result, a few steps are necessary, namely the preparation of the recipe. According to the Eguzkia association which protects the know-how and quality of this artisanal product , the real Basque cake is filled with pastry cream. However, there are variations where the Basque cake would be with cherry (PDO Itxassou of course), with almond cream, flavored with rum, lemon , vanilla... You will have understood, there are cakes Basques for all tastes, and for all taste buds.

Basque Cake, a pastry with an inimitable taste

Composed of butter, eggs, sugar and flour, the Basque cake is far from remaining quietly on the shelves of bakeries. Indeed, a museum in his name opens its doors to you in Sare, 30 minutes from Saint-Jean-de-Luz, to discover the history of the Basque cake and its production. Emblematic of the Basque Country, it is even honored during an annual festival in Combo-les-Bains , organized by the Eguzkia association. Every ^first weekend of October, the brotherhoods come together and present their product for a gourmet tasting under the sign of good humor and conviviality. Don't miss the Basque Cake Festival, you're going to enjoy it!

The best Basque cakes to enjoy without delay

If you are looking for the best Basque cake in the Basque Country, here are some ideas to find it. Prepare your taste buds, the tasting begins at:

• La Maison Adam which offers Basque cakes in Saint-Jean-de-Luz with cream, cherry, chocolate and walnut.
• Franck Mendivé Chocolatier who makes Basque cakes in Saint-Palais with cream, black cherry and vine peach.A
• La Maison Pommiers with a personalized, light and delicious recipe with limited version flavors.
• La Maison Gastellou makes 100% natural, preservative-free Basque cherry and cream cakes.
  
• Au Fournil de la Licorne cultive l'authenticité d'une recette familiale et artisanale.
  
• Erroa, a patisserie where even the Basque cake is homemade, and with passion.
  

Don't hesitate to try them all, each pastry chef has his own knack and his own little secret touch that makes the Basque cake unique and authentic.

Did you like our article? Find others on our Blog . Follow us on the Guide du Pays Basque Facebook page and on Instagram @guidedupaysbasque