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Cake Camembert Lardons

by

The Ultimate Savory French Delight

 

 

 

 

If you’re looking for a savory French cake that blends cheese, bacon, and a whole lot of comfort, Cake Camembert Lardons is the answer. This rich, moist loaf is a staple of French picnics, aperitifs, and casual brunches. Its creamy texture and salty goodness make it a favorite for those who love hearty, homemade recipes with a touch of elegance.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything from the traditional recipe, creative twists, to serving suggestions, and even some common baking mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re new to French cuisine or just love experimenting in the kitchen, you’ll find plenty to savor here.

🥖 A Slice of French Tradition

The Cake Camembert Lardons belongs to a category of French dishes called “cakes salés” – savory cakes often enjoyed as snacks or appetizers. These loaves are rich in flavor, easy to slice, and perfect for sharing.

Unlike a sweet cake, this one leans into bold, rustic ingredients – Camembert cheese, lardons (small strips of pork), and aromatic herbs. The concept of savory cakes has deep roots in the French countryside, where households often used leftover ingredients to create satisfying baked goods.

For those curious about the cultural significance of Camembert, explore this guide to the history of Camembert cheese to learn how this iconic cheese earned its place on French tables.

🧀 Meet the Star Ingredients

To truly appreciate Cake Camembert Lardons, it’s essential to understand the ingredients that give it such a bold flavor profile.

Camembert Cheese

  • A soft, bloomy-rind cheese from Normandy

  • Offers a creamy texture and earthy, tangy taste

  • Melts beautifully into the cake for a gooey interior

Camembert’s versatility makes it ideal for savory dishes. Need creative uses beyond cake? Check out these baked Camembert twists for more inspiration.

Lardons

  • Strips or cubes of pork belly, often smoked or salted

  • Common in French dishes like quiches and salads

  • Add salty, meaty depth to the cake

Supporting Ingredients

  • Eggs – For structure and richness

  • Flour – Typically all-purpose

  • Baking powder – For a light, tender crumb

  • Milk – Keeps the batter moist

  • Olive oil or butter – Adds richness

🧾 Nutritional Breakdown

Though indulgent, Cake Camembert Lardons offers a well-rounded nutritional profile:

  • Calories: ~320 per slice (depending on serving size)

  • Protein: High due to eggs and cheese

  • Fats: Rich in healthy and saturated fats

  • Carbs: Moderate, mostly from flour

It’s a dish best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your fat intake.

🍽️ The Classic Recipe

Here’s how to make an authentic Cake Camembert Lardons at home.

Ingredients:

  • 200g lardons

  • 200g Camembert cheese, diced

  • 200g flour

  • 3 eggs

  • 100ml milk

  • 100ml olive oil

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Optional: herbs like thyme or chives

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease a loaf pan.

  2. Fry the lardons in a pan until crispy. Set aside to cool.

  3. In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and olive oil until smooth.

  4. Sift in flour and baking powder, stir gently.

  5. Fold in lardons and Camembert, season with salt, pepper, and herbs.

  6. Pour into the loaf pan and bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

  7. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

🧑‍🍳 Variations and Flavor Twists

Want to personalize your savory French cake? Here are some delicious variations:

Vegetarian Options

  • Replace lardons with:

    • Sautéed mushrooms

    • Caramelized onions

    • Sun-dried tomatoes

  • Add nuts like walnuts for crunch

Flavor Enhancements

  • Mix in:

    • Chopped olives

    • Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)

    • Garlic or shallots for more depth

Want to dive deeper into ways to bake Camembert? This ultimate Camembert baking guide has excellent techniques.

🥗 Serving Suggestions

This cake shines as a:

  • Picnic snack – Easy to pack and slice

  • Appetizer – Serve warm with a green salad

  • Brunch item – Pairs well with eggs or fruit

  • Side dish – Great with creamy soups

Presentation Tips:

  • Serve in thick slices with a cheese knife

  • Add a drizzle of honey or fig jam for a sweet-savory contrast

  • Garnish with rosemary sprigs for aroma and style