RecipesBelgiumTarte au Sucre Dendermonde

Tarte au Sucre Dendermonde

A sweet, yeasted cake originating from Dendermonde, characterized by its rich, sugary topping and often flavored with vanilla or rum.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Servings8
DifficultyMedium
Tarte au Sucre Dendermonde - Belgium traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 300 g All-purpose flour
  • 7 g Active dry yeast
  • 150 ml Warm milk
  • 50 g Granulated sugar(for the dough)
  • 1 large Egg
  • 50 g Butter(softened)
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 150 g Brown sugar(for the topping)
  • 75 g Butter(cubed, for the topping)
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp Rum(optional)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

    ⏱️ 10 minutes
  2. 2

    In a large bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.

    ⏱️ 5 minutes
  3. 3

    Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

    ⏱️ 1 hour 10 minutes
  4. 4

    Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 23cm (9-inch) round baking tin.

    ⏱️ 5 minutes
  5. 5

    Punch down the dough and press it evenly into the prepared baking tin. Prick the surface with a fork.

    ⏱️ 5 minutes
  6. 6

    In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, cubed butter, vanilla extract, and rum (if using). Mix with fingertips until it forms coarse crumbs.

    ⏱️ 5 minutes
  7. 7

    Sprinkle the sugar topping evenly over the dough. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

    ⏱️ 35 minutes
  8. 8

    Let cool slightly in the tin before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Ensure milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
  • For a richer topping, add a tablespoon of chopped almonds.
  • This cake is best enjoyed fresh.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a tablespoon of cinnamon to the sugar topping for a spiced version.
  • Incorporate a few tablespoons of raisins or candied fruit into the dough.
  • Drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and a little milk or lemon juice.

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