master-cooks | The French Dessert That Made Julia Child Cry On Television

During a particularly memorable episode of her pioneering cooking show, "The French Chef," Julia Child was brought to tears by a classic French dessert known as the Reine de Saba, or Queen of Sheba cake. This rich, chocolate almond cake is celebrated for its delicate balance of flavors and moist, tender crumb. It is said to have been named after the legendary Queen of Sheba, reflecting its luxurious and decadent nature. The cake is crafted with ingredients like finely ground almonds, high-quality chocolate, and a touch of rum, which together create a complex, nutty, and deeply chocolatey flavor. The Reine de Saba cake is traditionally finished with a silky chocolate glaze and a scattering of sliced almonds, adding an elegant touch to its presentation. Julia Child was enchanted by this dessert, and her emotional response on television highlighted her deep appreciation for French cuisine and its ability to evoke powerful, heartfelt reactions. Her genuine passion for cooking and sharing the joys of French gastronomy with an American audience helped demystify complex recipes like the Reine de Saba, making them accessible to home cooks and inspiring countless viewers to explore the world of French culinary arts.

A dessert worth crying over

In a 1997 episode of "Baking with Julia," Season 3, Silverton, the then-owner of La Brea Bakery in Los Angeles, guided Child through the tart recipe. The show, which aired for three seasons, featured Child alongside industry experts as they shared recipes and demonstrated culinary techniques. In this specific episode, Silverton meticulously explains the steps for preparing, shaping, and baking the brioche dough, blending a crème fraîche mixture, and garnishing the dessert with sautéed and sliced stone fruits, toasted nuts, and powdered sugar.

This dish is a true labor of love, showcasing what Silverton refers to as a "secret sauce" made from caramelized sugar, fresh vanilla beans, white wine, and whipped cream. The final pastry is a rich, airy tart, adorned with vibrant fruit and generous amounts of cream. After it’s baked, the two taste the tart on camera. "A good combination?" Silverton inquires. After a moment's pause, with a noticeable tremor in her voice, Child replies, "It's a dessert to cry over."

The French Dessert That Made Julia Child Cry On Television

A dessert worth crying over

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