Hazelnut Layered Cake

Hazelnut Layered Cake Recipe from Romania

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Indulge in the rich and nutty flavors of this Hazelnut Layered Cake, a decadent dessert that is sure to impress your guests. This recipe combines the crunch of roasted hazelnuts and walnuts with a creamy butter filling, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

History

The Hazelnut Layered Cake has its origins in European baking traditions, where nuts are commonly used in desserts for their rich and earthy flavors. This recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to make it their own.

Ingredients

3 oz / 80 g roasted and ground hazelnuts
3 oz / 80 g roasted and ground almonds or walnuts
5 egg whites
7 oz / 210 g confectioner's sugar
butter

Filling

7 oz / 200 g butter
5 oz / 140 g confectioner's sugar
5 oz / 160 g roasted hazelnuts
2 tbsp grated chocolate or cacao
2 tbsp sour cream

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine the whipped egg whites, sugar, hazelnuts, and almonds (or walnuts).

Divide and Bake

Divide the mixture into two equal parts and bake each part in a round pan lined with buttered parchment paper.
Once the sheets are baked and cooled, prepare the cream filling.
In a separate bowl, mix the butter, confectioner's sugar, roasted and finely ground hazelnuts, grated chocolate, and sour cream.
Spread the cream evenly on both sheets.
Place one sheet on top of the other and garnish with the remaining cream, whole hazelnuts, and chopped almonds or walnuts.

Variations

Substitute almonds for walnuts for a different flavor profile.
Add a layer of raspberry jam between the cake layers for a fruity twist.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cake for an extra touch of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to roast the hazelnuts and walnuts before grinding them to bring out their full flavor.

- Whipping the egg whites until stiff peaks form will help create a light and airy texture for the cake layers.

- Be sure to cool the cake layers completely before assembling the cake to prevent the filling from melting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Hazelnut Layered Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the nuts before grinding them will enhance their flavor.

- Whipping the egg whites until stiff peaks form will help create a light and airy texture for the cake layers.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use almond flour instead of ground almonds or walnuts.

- Margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in the filling.

Make Ahead Tips

The Hazelnut Layered Cake can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Hazelnut Layered Cake with whole hazelnuts and chopped almonds or walnuts for a beautiful and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Hazelnut Layered Cake with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a perfect ending to a meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Hazelnut Layered Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cake in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Hazelnut Layered Cake contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Hazelnut Layered Cake contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Hazelnut Layered Cake contains approximately 25 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Hazelnut Layered Cake contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Hazelnuts are a good source of vitamin E, while walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Both nuts also contain minerals such as magnesium, copper, and manganese.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts, eggs, and dairy, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Hazelnut Layered Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fats and carbohydrates. It also provides a good source of proteins and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Indulge in the rich and nutty flavors of this Hazelnut Layered Cake, a decadent dessert that is sure to impress your guests. With a crunchy nutty base and a creamy butter filling, this cake is a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a truly indulgent treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to visit my dear friend Margaret in the neighboring town. Margaret was known for her impeccable baking skills, and I always looked forward to trying out her new creations.

As soon as I walked into Margaret's kitchen, I was greeted by the delightful aroma of freshly baked goods. She welcomed me with a warm hug and a smile before leading me to the kitchen table. There, sitting proudly on a cake stand, was a magnificent Hazelnut Layered Cake. Its layers were perfectly stacked, and the frosting was so smooth and luscious that it made my mouth water.

Margaret poured us each a cup of tea before cutting us each a generous slice of the cake. As soon as I took my first bite, I knew that I had stumbled upon a true gem of a recipe. The cake was moist, the hazelnut flavor was rich and nutty, and the frosting was the perfect balance of sweet and creamy.

I couldn't contain my excitement as I asked Margaret for the recipe. She laughed and told me that it was a family secret that had been passed down for generations. However, she promised to share it with me on one condition - that I promise to keep it in the family and never reveal it to anyone outside of our circle of friends.

I eagerly agreed to her terms and watched intently as Margaret walked me through the steps of making the Hazelnut Layered Cake. She explained the importance of using high-quality hazelnuts and how to toast them just right to bring out their full flavor. She also shared her tips for creating the perfect frosting, emphasizing the importance of patience and precision.

Once I had all the ingredients and instructions memorized, I thanked Margaret for her generosity and promised to make the cake for my family as soon as I got home. She smiled and wished me luck before sending me off with a care package of extra hazelnuts and frosting.

When I arrived home, I couldn't wait to get started on making the cake. I gathered all the ingredients and began following Margaret's instructions to a tee. The kitchen was filled with the comforting scents of hazelnuts and vanilla as the cake baked in the oven.

As I carefully assembled the layers and spread the frosting, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. This recipe was more than just a cake - it was a symbol of friendship, tradition, and the joy of sharing something special with loved ones.

When the cake was finally finished, I called my family to the table and presented them with the Hazelnut Layered Cake. Their eyes lit up with excitement as they took their first bites, and I could see that they were just as enchanted by the recipe as I had been.

From that day on, the Hazelnut Layered Cake became a staple in our family gatherings. It was passed down from generation to generation, with each new baker adding their own unique touch to the beloved recipe.

Now, as I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day in Margaret's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships, memories, and delicious recipes that have enriched my life. The Hazelnut Layered Cake will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the joy that can be found in sharing food, stories, and love with those we hold dear.