Gram'S French Cream Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 40 min Cuisine: French

A delicate French cream cake featuring light sponge layers filled and topped with rich, creamy frosting, perfect for celebrations or special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 3 egg yolks
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cold water
  • 1 1/2 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • pinch of salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

  1. Mix egg yolks with 1 cup of sugar and combine with 3 tablespoons of cold water.
  2. In a separate bowl, sift together 1 1/2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
  3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg yolk mixture, stirring until smooth.
  4. Beat 3 egg whites until stiff peaks form and fold into the batter last.
  5. Pour the batter into ungreased round pans.
  6. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Allow the cakes to cool completely before splitting into layers.
  8. Spread cream between the layers and over the top and sides of the cake, securing with toothpicks if needed.

Tips & Substitutions

For a fluffier cake, ensure the egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks before folding them into the batter. If you don't have cold water, you can substitute with milk for a richer flavor. For added depth, consider incorporating a tablespoon of Grand Marnier or a splash of almond extract along with the vanilla. Sifting the flour and baking powder helps to aerate the mixture, leading to a lighter cake.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is perfect for celebrations and pairs beautifully with Vanilla Kranse(Rings) or fresh berries for a colorful dessert platter. Serve alongside a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. You can also dress it up with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for extra indulgence, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold as a delightful treat. If the cake is layered with cream, it's best consumed within a few days to maintain freshness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Gram'S French Cream Cake contains roughly 286 calories, with 12g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (27% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1115mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).

286 kcal 14% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.6g 23% DV
Total Fat 1.3g 2% DV
Carbs 22.3g 8% DV
Fiber 2.5g 9% DV
Sugar 8.2g 16% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1114.6mg 48% DV
Potassium 291.6mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 28.8mg 10% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6mcg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 354.3mg 27% DV
Iron 1.3mg 7% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole eggs instead of just egg yolks?

Using whole eggs will change the texture of the cake, making it denser. If you want to try it, use 2 whole eggs instead of the 3 yolks, but be aware that the cake may not rise as much. The addition of more egg whites can help if you're looking for fluffiness.

What kind of cream should I use for frosting?

For the cream filling, heavy whipping cream works best as it whips well and holds its shape. You can also mix in a bit of cream cheese for a tangy flavor. Just remember to sweeten to your taste, especially if you're using unsweetened cream cheese.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead. Just allow it to cool completely, wrap it in plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. Frost it on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture and flavor. Alternatively, you can freeze the layers for up to a month and frost them once thawed.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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