Flavors of BrittanyPreheat the oven to 180° C (350° F)
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes

On the doorstep to Brittany, Vitré is a fortified medieval town that has preserved its architectural heritage. The town holds many treasures, including this traditional cake.

Making the almond sponge cake

1. Whip the whole eggs and yolks together with the sugar and almond powder until very pale and light. Fold in the flour and melted butter. 
2. Whip the egg whites to firm peaks with the sugar; gently fold into the first mixture. 
3. Pour the batter into 2 - 18 cm (7") round cake pans and bake in a 180° (350° F) oven for 20 minutes.
4. Turn out of the pans and let cool. 

Caramelized apples 

1. While the cake is baking, peel and thinly slice the apples. 
2. Cook the sugar to a light caramel. Add the butter and then the cream and apples. Bring to a boil and cook for 10 minutes over medium heat. Let cool. 

Assembly

1. Cover one cake layer with the caramelized apples and top with the second layer. 
2. Combine 1 egg white with 20 g (3 tbsp.) icing sugar. Brush the cake with this mixture, then sprinkle with flaked almonds; sprinkle with icing sugar and place under the broiler just long enough to brown. Serve warm or cold.