the history of Trianon Chocolate Royal cake

The Trianon Cake, also known as the Royal Cake, is a classic of French pâtisserie, renowned for its elegance and sophistication. Its origins are attributed to the workshops of Gaston Lenôtre, a renowned French pastry chef who revolutionised modern pâtisserie in the second half of the 20th century.

This cake consists of multiple layers combining different textures and flavours. The base is a hazelnut dacquoise, a light sponge made with egg whites and almond flour. On top of this base is a layer of crispy praliné, providing a textural contrast with the inclusion of feuilletine, fine crispy biscuits known as “Gavottes”. Finally, it is crowned with a smooth chocolate mousse, made from a ganache montée, blending chocolate and whipped cream to achieve an airy and creamy texture.

The name “Trianon” refers to the Petit Trianon, a small palace located in the gardens of Versailles, associated with French royalty and known for its refinement. On the other hand, the term “Royal” highlights the noble and distinguished character of this dessert, evoking the opulence of the French court.

Although there is no exact date of creation, it is estimated that the Trianon Cake emerged in the 1960s or 1970s, coinciding with the period when Gaston Lenôtre popularised many of his innovations in French pâtisserie. Lenôtre, born in 1920 in Saint-Nicolas-du-Bosc, Normandy, opened his first shop in Paris in 1957, and his influence quickly spread, establishing him as a key figure in 20th-century gastronomy.

The Trianon Cake has transcended French borders, becoming an international reference in pâtisserie. Its combination of textures — the smoothness of the mousse, the crunch of the praliné, and the lightness of the dacquoise — along with the richness of the chocolate, has made it popular among dessert lovers worldwide.

Today, this cake can be found in the display cases of many renowned pâtisseries and is a frequent choice for celebrations and events seeking to add a touch of distinction and the authentic flavour of classic French pâtisserie.