Burnt Toast

Listen along as Aleksandra Crapanzano, author of Gateau: The Surprising Simplicity of French Cakes, cooks through a simple-yet-delicious pound cake which can become the foundation for endless variations for any occasion.RecipeMakes 1 Cake4 large eggs1 cup / 200 grams granulated sugar14 tablespoons unsalted butter2 teaspoons vanilla extractgrated zest of one lemon or orange1 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon / 200 grams cake flour1/2 teaspoon fine sea saltPreheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter and flour a 9 x 5 inch loaf panSeparate the eggs and let them come to room temperature. In a good-sized mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks to break them up a bit. Add the sugar and whisk until they are thick and pale. Add the melted butter, vanilla and lemon zest and whisk until smooth. Add the flour and stir with a rubber spatula until no streaks remain.Using electric beaters or in a stand mixer, beat the egg whites until they form soft peaks. Add the salt and beat until they form stiff peaks. Stir a quarter of the whites into t