St. Honoré cake (Gateau Saint-Honore)

Named after Saint Honoré, the French patron saint of bakers, this intricate dessert is a true representation of French confectionery art. Saint Honoré cake unites all of the fundamental components of French pastry making: puff pastry, vanilla custard, choux pastry, and caramelized sugar.

A puff pastry base is given a generous piping of custard and topped with delicate cream puffs dipped in caramelized sugar. Although this delicacy was invented in the 19th century, it is still considered one of France’s favorite desserts. This show-stopping treat requires great effort and skill to prepare properly, for which reason it is usually reserved for special occasions, celebrations, and festivities.

Modern-day variations on this classic sometimes include unusual flavors or tropical fruits, but the basic vanilla flavored Saint Honoré cake is still by far the most popular.