Merengue Layered Cake

Merengue Layered Cake Recipe from Romania - Delicious Dessert

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 8

Introduction

Merengue Layered Cake is a delicious and decadent dessert that combines airy meringue layers with a rich and creamy walnut filling. This show-stopping cake is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat to enjoy with friends and family.

History

The origins of Merengue Layered Cake can be traced back to Eastern Europe, where meringue-based desserts have been popular for centuries. This particular recipe combines traditional meringue techniques with a rich walnut filling to create a unique and indulgent dessert.

Ingredients

Filling

1 cup granulated sugar
7 oz / 200 g walnuts
8 oz / 250 g butter
3 tbsp confectioner's sugar
1 tsp vanilla or 0.25 cup rum

How to prepare

Place the egg whites, sugar, and vanilla in a heat-resistant bowl.
Place this bowl into a larger one, full of boiling water and set it on heat.
Beat the whites until thick. Bake 3 sheets out of this mixture.
The procedure is as follows: cut 3 equal rounds of white paper, the size of a round layer cake.
Grease each paper round with oil and place it on the inverted bottom of a baking pan.
Place a uniform layer of egg whites (0.33 of the mixture) on the greased circle and bake at very low heat.
When done, place the rounds face down on the work surface, moisten the paper with water, and pull it off.
Fill these rounds with cream.
To get the cream, caramelize a cup of granulated sugar; when it starts to turn yellow, add the slightly roasted walnuts and let them roast a little with the sugar, mixing continuously.
After the mixture turns a deeper gold, remove from heat and turn it onto an oil-greased plate to cool.
In the meantime, beat the butter with 3 tbsp of confectioner's sugar and vanilla or rum, adding the finely crushed walnuts.
Put 1 tbsp of crushed walnuts aside for garnish.
Spread this cream over the sheets, place one on top of the other, and cover with the same cream.
Sprinkle with the 1 tbsp of crushed walnuts.

Variations

For a lighter version, you can use a whipped cream filling instead of the butter and walnut filling.
You can also add a layer of fresh berries between the meringue layers for a fruity twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to beat the egg whites until they are thick and glossy to ensure a light and airy meringue layer.

- When caramelizing the sugar for the walnut filling, be careful not to let it burn. Stir continuously to prevent the sugar from sticking to the pan.

- Allow the cake to cool completely before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Merengue Layered Cake with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed walnuts for an extra indulgent touch.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a successful Merengue Layered Cake is to beat the egg whites until they are thick and glossy. This will ensure that the meringue layers are light and airy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are allergic to nuts, you can omit the walnuts from the filling and use a different type of nut or seed, such as almonds or sunflower seeds.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meringue layers and the walnut filling ahead of time and assemble the cake just before serving. This will help save time on the day of your event.

Presentation Ideas

To make your Merengue Layered Cake even more visually appealing, you can garnish it with fresh berries, edible flowers, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Pairing Recommendations

Merengue Layered Cake pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. It also goes well with a glass of dessert wine for a more indulgent pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Merengue Layered Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Merengue Layered Cake contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Merengue Layered Cake contains approximately 30g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Merengue Layered Cake contains approximately 25g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Merengue Layered Cake contains approximately 5g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Merengue Layered Cake is a good source of vitamin E, which is found in the walnuts used in the filling. It also contains small amounts of calcium and iron.

Alergens

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

Summary

Merengue Layered Cake is a decadent dessert that is high in fats and carbohydrates. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Merengue Layered Cake is a delicious and indulgent dessert that combines airy meringue layers with a rich walnut filling. This show-stopping cake is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat to enjoy with friends and family.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her quaint little village. Maria was known for her incredible baking skills, and I always looked forward to tasting her delicious creations.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the heavenly aroma of freshly baked goodies. Maria had a twinkle in her eye as she handed me a slice of her famous Merengue Layered Cake. The moment I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make this delectable dessert.

"Maria, this cake is absolutely divine! Would you mind sharing the recipe with me?" I asked eagerly, my taste buds still tingling with delight.

Maria smiled warmly and nodded. "Of course, my dear friend. I learned this recipe from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother before her. It's been passed down through generations, and I would be honored to share it with you."

I sat at Maria's kitchen table, a pen and paper in hand, ready to jot down every detail of the recipe. As she began to explain the steps, I listened intently, eager to soak up every bit of knowledge she had to offer.

"To make the Merengue Layered Cake, you will need eggs, sugar, flour, and a touch of vanilla extract," Maria began, her hands moving deftly as she walked me through the process. "The key to this cake is the light and fluffy meringue layers that sandwich the rich and creamy filling."

I watched in awe as Maria whipped the egg whites into stiff peaks, adding sugar gradually to create a glossy, cloud-like meringue. The aroma of vanilla filled the air as she gently folded in the flour, ensuring that the layers would be moist and tender.

Once the cake layers were baked to golden perfection, Maria whipped up a luscious filling of whipped cream and fresh berries. She assembled the cake with precision, layering the meringue sheets with the creamy filling and topping it off with a generous dusting of powdered sugar.

As I took my first bite of the finished cake, I was transported to a world of sweet indulgence. The delicate meringue melted in my mouth, while the creamy filling provided a burst of fruity freshness. It was a symphony of flavors and textures that left me craving more.

"Thank you, Maria. This cake is truly a masterpiece," I exclaimed, savoring every bite. "I can't wait to make it for my family and friends."

Maria beamed with pride, her eyes twinkling with joy. "I'm so glad you enjoyed it, my dear. Remember, the secret ingredient in this recipe is love. Take your time, enjoy the process, and share it with those you hold dear."

And so, armed with the treasured recipe for Maria's Merengue Layered Cake, I returned home with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit brimming with excitement. I couldn't wait to recreate the magic in my own kitchen, sharing the love and tradition that had been passed down through generations.

As I baked the cake for my family, I felt a sense of connection to the past and a deep appreciation for the culinary legacy that had been entrusted to me. With each meringue layer I carefully crafted and each creamy filling I lovingly spread, I felt the presence of my dear friend Maria and her ancestors guiding me along the way.

And when my loved ones took their first bite of the Merengue Layered Cake, their faces lit up with delight, just as mine had in Maria's kitchen that fateful day. It was a moment of pure joy and sweetness, a testament to the power of tradition and the timeless magic of a homemade dessert made with love.

As I sit here now, recounting the story of how I learned to make Maria's Merengue Layered Cake, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the friendships and memories that have enriched my life. And though time may pass and circumstances may change, the legacy of this treasured recipe will always be a reminder of the bonds that connect us and the joy that comes from sharing a delicious slice of cake with those we hold dear.