Mocha Layered Cake

Romanian Mocha Layered Cake with Walnuts and Almonds Recipe

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Mocha Layered Cake is a decadent and delicious dessert that combines the rich flavors of coffee and chocolate in a moist and fluffy cake. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat for coffee lovers.

History

The origins of Mocha Layered Cake can be traced back to the 18th century when coffee and chocolate were first introduced to Europe. The combination of these two flavors quickly became popular in desserts, and the Mocha Layered Cake was born.

Ingredients

8 eggs
8 oz / 250 g confectioner's sugar
8 oz / 250 g ground walnuts or almonds
2 tbsp fine white breadcrumbs

Filling

8 oz / 250 g butter
8 oz / 250 g confectioner's sugar
5 yolks
0.5 vanilla stick
1 small cup coffee essence
4 oz / 100 g blanched almonds

How to prepare

Cream the egg yolks with the sugar. Then, add the walnuts or almonds, bread crumbs, and the whipped egg whites at the end.
Pour the mixture into the cake baking pan and bake. Once it has cooled, cut it into two layers.
Fill and glaze the cake with the following cream.
Beat the sugar with the butter until creamy. Then, add the egg yolks one by one and the ground vanilla. Mix well until you get a creamy texture.
Gradually add the coffee essence and continue mixing well.
After filling and covering the cake with the cream, garnish it with sliced almonds.

Variations

Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers for an extra decadent touch.
Substitute the almonds with hazelnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to properly cream the butter and sugar for the filling to achieve a light and fluffy texture.

- Be careful not to overmix the cake batter to avoid a dense and tough cake.

- Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting it into layers to prevent crumbling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mocha Layered Cake with a cup of hot coffee or espresso for a delightful coffee-flavored dessert experience.

Cooking Techniques

Creaming method for the cake batter

- Whipping method for the egg whites

- Creaming method for the filling

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground walnuts can be substituted for ground almonds

- Instant coffee powder can be used instead of coffee essence

Make Ahead Tips

Mocha Layered Cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the top of the cake with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for an elegant finish.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Mocha Layered Cake with a glass of dessert wine or a creamy liqueur for a delightful dessert pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Mocha Layered Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mocha Layered Cake contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

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

Fats

Each serving of Mocha Layered Cake contains approximately 20g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Mocha Layered Cake contains approximately 6g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Mocha Layered Cake is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Mocha Layered Cake contains eggs, almonds, and butter, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Mocha Layered Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fats and carbohydrates. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Mocha Layered Cake is a delicious and indulgent dessert that combines the flavors of coffee and chocolate in a moist and fluffy cake. With a creamy filling and a crunchy almond garnish, this cake is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee for the perfect ending to a meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Mocha Layered Cake. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning to cook in my mother's kitchen. My mother had a friend who was a master baker, and she would often come over to our house to share her delicious creations with us. One day, she brought over a Mocha Layered Cake that was out of this world.

I watched intently as she mixed the batter, adding coffee and cocoa powder to give it that rich mocha flavor. The smell that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. I asked her for the recipe, and she graciously agreed to teach me.

Over the years, I have made this Mocha Layered Cake countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to make it my own. It has become a staple at family gatherings and special occasions, a dessert that never fails to impress. Each layer of moist chocolate cake is sandwiched between layers of creamy mocha frosting, creating a decadent treat that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.

I have shared this recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of delicious homemade desserts. It brings me great joy to see others enjoy the fruits of my labor, just as I once did when I first learned to make this cake. The memories of that day in my mother's kitchen, watching in awe as my mother's friend worked her magic, will always hold a special place in my heart.

As I sit here now, reflecting on all the years that have passed since that fateful day, I am grateful for the opportunity to continue sharing this recipe with others. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to express my creativity and bring joy to those around me. And this Mocha Layered Cake is a shining example of that passion, a testament to the power of good food to bring people together.

I hope that whoever reads this story will be inspired to try their hand at making this delicious dessert. It may seem daunting at first, but with a little patience and practice, I know that anyone can master the art of baking. And who knows, perhaps this Mocha Layered Cake will become a beloved tradition in your own family, just as it has in mine.