Canele Bordeaux

Canelé: Discover Bordeaux’s Iconic Pastry

Canelé pastry on a wooden board, showcasing its caramelized crust and fluted edges

What is a Canelé?

A Brief Overview of the Pastry

The Origins of Canelé

Where to Enjoy the Best Canelé in Bordeaux

Baillardran

La Toque Cuivrée

Pâtisserie S.

How to Make Canelé at Home

  • 500 ml whole milk
  • 50 g unsalted butter
  • 2 vanilla beans or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 100 ml dark rum
  • 100 g all-purpose flour
  • 250 g sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • Pinch of salt
  • Beeswax and butter mixture (for greasing the molds)
  1. Prepare the Batter:
    • In a saucepan, combine the milk, butter, and vanilla beans (split and scraped) and bring to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the eggs and egg yolks, then slowly incorporate the cooled milk mixture while whisking to avoid lumps.
    • Stir in the rum and strain the batter through a fine sieve to remove any lumps or vanilla bean pods. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the batter for at least 24 hours.
  2. Prepare the Molds:
    • Bakers traditionally bake Canelé in copper molds, greasing them with a mixture of melted beeswax and butter. This step is crucial for achieving the signature caramelized crust. If you don’t have copper molds, you can use silicone molds, but they won’t create the same crisp exterior.
  3. Bake the Canelé:
    • Preheat your oven to 240°C (460°F). Remove the batter from the refrigerator and whisk it lightly. Fill each mold to about three-quarters full with the batter.
    • Bake for 10 minutes at 240°C (460°F), then reduce the oven temperature to 180°C (350°F) and continue baking for 50 to 60 minutes. The Canelé should have a dark, caramelized exterior and a soft, custard-like center.
  4. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow the Canelé to cool in the molds for a few minutes before carefully unmolding them. They are best enjoyed fresh, either warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Enjoying Canelé

  • Pair with a Local Wine: For an authentic Bordeaux experience, pair your Canelé with a glass of sweet white wine, such as Sauternes. The rich, caramelized flavor of the pastry complements the wine’s sweetness beautifully.
  • Enjoy with Coffee: Canelé also pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee, making it a perfect treat for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.
  • Buy Some to Take Home: If you fall in love with Canelé during your visit, many patisseries offer beautifully packaged boxes that make for great souvenirs or gifts.

The Cultural Significance of Canelé