While thetree cake (gâteau à la broche)is one of the great culinary specialities of Aveyron, it actually comes from Prussia. Indeed, this dessert was created in 1790 by the pastry chef of the King of Prussia himself. It was brought back to France by Napoleon, following one of his many campaigns.
A unique dessert, tree cakeis cooked over an open fire. The liquid mixture is poured onto a pine tree-shaped spit specially designed for this purpose. Gradually, in contact with the heat, it all solidifies as a pancake would. Traditionally, a pound cake-type mixture is used, and the finished cake is served at special events such as weddings or christenings.