Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe French Laundry"gâteau Opera" Recipe

"gâteau Opera" Recipe

Inspired by The French Laundry
Time2h
Serves8

"Joconde" Sponge and Cocoa Nib "Nougatine"

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Ingredients

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Joconde Sponge

Cocoa Nib Nougatine

Method

Joconde Sponge Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Batter

    In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, powdered sugar, and all-purpose flour. Mix well and set aside.

  2. 2

    Whip the Eggs

    In another bowl, whip the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.

  3. 3

    Combine Mixtures

    In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the vanilla extract. Gently fold the yolk mixture into the flour mixture, then gently fold in the whipped egg whites until fully combined.

  4. 4

    Add Butter

    Finally, fold in the melted butter until the batter is smooth.

  5. 5

    Bake the Sponge

    Spread the batter evenly on a lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden and springy to the touch.

  6. 6

    Cool and Cut

    Let the sponge cool completely before cutting it into three equal rectangles.

Cocoa Nib Nougatine Preparation

  1. 7

    Prepare Sugar Mixture

    In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, glucose syrup, and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.

  2. 8

    Cook the Mixture

    Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Cook until it reaches a golden caramel color.

  3. 9

    Add Cocoa Nibs

    Remove from heat and quickly stir in the cocoa nibs and butter until well combined.

  4. 10

    Pour onto Baking Sheet

    Immediately pour the nougatine mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it out into a thin layer. Let it cool and harden.

  5. 11

    Break into Pieces

    Once cooled, break the nougatine into small shards for decorating the cake.