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Introduction and Origin
The Cake Salé, a savory French quick bread, is a staple in French households, especially during picnics, apéritifs, or light meals. Originating in French home kitchens in the 20th century, it’s essentially the savory counterpart of a pound cake. The version with jambon (ham) and gruyère cheese has become a beloved classic for its balanced, comforting flavors and fluffy texture.
Cultural Significance
In France, serving a cake salé is a gesture of warmth and conviviality. Whether sliced up during a summer apéro with friends or enjoyed at a countryside picnic, it reflects the French tradition of simple, quality ingredients assembled with care. This dish embodies la cuisine du terroir – humble yet deeply satisfying regional home cooking.
🧾 Ingredients & Quantities
- 200 g gruyère cheese, grated
- 200 g diced ham
- 4 eggs
- 200 g all-purpose flour
- 1 sachet (11 g) of baking powder
- 100 ml neutral oil (sunflower or grapeseed)
- 100 ml milk (preferably whole)
- Salt (around 1/2 tsp, to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper
🧂 Optional Additions
- A handful of chopped black or green olives
- A few tablespoons of sautéed onions or shallots
- Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme
- A pinch of nutmeg for subtle warmth
- Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for depth
📝 Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and milk are not cold for a smooth batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Once the dry and wet ingredients are combined, mix just until incorporated.
- Cheese Variety: You can mix in some Comté or Emmental for flavor variation.
- Cooling Time: Let the cake rest before slicing to prevent crumbling.
👨🍳 Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs until slightly frothy.
- Add the milk and oil, and whisk together.
- Sift in the flour and baking powder. Mix gently until smooth.
- Fold in the grated cheese, diced ham, salt, and pepper. Add any optional ingredients.
- Pour into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
✨ Description
The result? A beautifully golden, moist, and slightly springy loaf. The gruyère melts into the batter, creating a rich cheesy aroma, while the bits of ham offer a savory punch in every bite. It’s satisfyingly dense without being heavy, with a crisp crust that contrasts the tender crumb.
🔍 Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 10 slices)
| Nutrient | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Calcium | 220 mg |
Note: Nutritional values vary depending on specific ingredients used.
📝 Conclusion and Recommendation
Whether you’re planning a laid-back brunch, packing a picnic basket, or just want something cozy with a glass of wine, Cake Salé au Jambon & Gruyère is a timeless go-to. It stores well, travels beautifully, and appeals to almost everyone. Bonus: it’s endlessly adaptable!
🫶 Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This savory cake is proof that indulgence doesn’t need to be overwhelming. By using quality ingredients and moderate portions, it fits beautifully into a balanced lifestyle. Pair it with a crisp green salad or a bowl of vegetable soup for a complete, heartwarming meal.