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#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven**:
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)** and grease a round cake pan (about 8 inches) or line it with parchment paper.
2. **Beat the Eggs**:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the **eggs** and **granulated sugar** together using an electric mixer on high speed. Beat for about 8–10 minutes, or until the mixture has tripled in volume and has turned pale in color. This is a critical step, as the eggs must be fully whipped to incorporate air into the batter, which is what gives the cake its light texture.
3. **Add Dry Ingredients**:
In a separate bowl, sift the **flour**, **baking powder**, and **salt** together. Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the egg mixture in batches, using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the batter. Fold until just combined.
4. **Incorporate Butter**:
Gently melt the **butter** and allow it to cool slightly. Fold the melted butter into the batter until incorporated. This will add moisture to the cake and make it extra soft.
5. **Bake the Cake**:
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for **20-25 minutes** or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top of the cake should be golden and spring back when touched lightly.
6. **Cool the Cake**:
Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent it from becoming soggy.
7. **Serve and Decorate**:
Once the cake is completely cool, you can enjoy it as is or dust it with a light layer of **powdered sugar** for a simple presentation. Alternatively, you can top it with fresh berries, whipped cream, or even layer it with your favorite frosting.
### Serving Suggestions
Gâteau Éponge Moelleux is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a variety of delicious accompaniments. Here are some ideas for serving your French sponge cake:
– **Fresh Fruit**: Top with fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a pop of color and natural sweetness.
– **Whipped Cream**: A dollop of freshly whipped cream pairs perfectly with the light texture of the cake.
– **Fruit Preserves or Jam**: Spread a layer of strawberry or apricot jam for added flavor and richness.
– **Chocolate Ganache**: For a more indulgent treat, drizzle a rich chocolate ganache over the cake or use it as a filling.
– **Layered Cake**: Slice the sponge cake into layers and fill with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or custard to create a stunning layered dessert.
### Why Gâteau Éponge Moelleux is an Enduring Classic
Gâteau Éponge Moelleux has remained a beloved staple in French baking for good reason. Its **light texture**, **versatility**, and **delicate sweetness** make it a standout dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a simple treat with coffee or transforming it into a multi-layered showstopper for a wedding or party, this sponge cake can be adapted to suit your needs while maintaining its timeless charm.
Moreover, it’s a cake that’s as much about technique as it is about ingredients. The careful whipping of eggs, the folding of dry ingredients, and the final touch of butter create a soft, moist cake that is simply irresistible. For anyone looking to try their hand at classic French baking, Gâteau Éponge Moelleux is a fantastic recipe to master.
So, whether it’s a birthday, a holiday, or just a special moment in need of a sweet treat, this enduring classic is sure to be a hit at your next event. Light, elegant, and utterly delicious, Gâteau Éponge Moelleux will never go out of style.
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