Special Layered Cake with Cacao

Romanian Layered Cake with Cacao Recipe | Ingredients: Sugar, Walnuts, Eggs, Rum, Whipped Cream & More

Region / culture: Romania | Servings: 8

Introduction

This Special Layered Cake with Cacao is a decadent and delicious dessert that is perfect for special occasions or celebrations. The combination of caramelized walnuts, whipped cream, and a rich cacao filling creates a unique and indulgent flavor profile that will impress your guests.

History

This recipe has been passed down through generations in many families, originating from Eastern European countries where layered cakes are a popular dessert choice. The combination of caramelized walnuts and cacao filling is a classic flavor pairing that has stood the test of time.

Ingredients

8 oz / 250 g sugar
8 oz / 250 g walnuts
5 egg whites
rum
10 oz / 300 g whipped cream
oil

Filling

8 yolks
8 oz / 250 g confectioner's sugar
8 oz / 250 g butter
2 tbsp cacao
2 tbsp sugar
0.5 cup water

How to prepare

Caramelize 8 oz / 250 g of sugar.
Once it starts to turn yellow, add the walnuts and let them roast slightly.
Remove from heat and spread the mixture on a previously oiled cutting board.
Once cooled, finely crush the mixture using a mortar and pestle.
Whip the egg whites and mix them with the roasted and crushed walnuts.
Divide this mixture into 3 equal parts and individually bake them in baking pans greased with oil and lined with parchment paper.
Bake at medium heat until golden.
Spread cream on the cooled sheets that were previously sprinkled with rum.
Spread cream on the last layer as well.
Then cover the entire cake with whipped cream.
To make the cream, beat the egg yolks with the confectioner's sugar until creamy.
Mix in the separately creamed butter, and then add the following, which were also prepared separately:
Boil 2 tbsp of cocoa with 2 tbsp of sugar and 0.5 cup of water until thickened.
Mix everything together very well.

Variations

Add a layer of fresh berries between the cake layers for a fruity twist.
Substitute the cacao filling with a different flavored filling, such as vanilla or coffee.
Top the cake with chocolate shavings or sprinkles for added decoration.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to caramelize the sugar carefully to avoid burning it.

- Be sure to whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form for a light and airy cake.

- Allow the cake layers to cool completely before assembling to prevent the cream from melting.

- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cake with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.

Cooking Techniques

Caramelize the sugar carefully to avoid burning.

- Whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form for a light and airy cake.

- Allow the cake layers to cool completely before assembling to prevent the cream from melting.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the walnuts with almonds or pecans for a different flavor profile.

- Use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free version of this cake.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cake layers and filling ahead of time and assemble the cake just before serving for convenience.

Presentation Ideas

Decorate the top of the cake with chocolate curls, fresh berries, or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This cake pairs well with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of espresso for a luxurious dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this cake contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Special Layered Cake with Cacao contains approximately 30g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this cake contains approximately 25g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of this cake contains approximately 5g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This cake is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts, eggs, and dairy.

Summary

This Special Layered Cake with Cacao is a rich and indulgent dessert that is best enjoyed in moderation due to its high calorie and fat content.

Summary

This Special Layered Cake with Cacao is a show-stopping dessert that is sure to impress your guests. With layers of caramelized walnuts, whipped cream, and a rich cacao filling, this cake is a decadent treat that is perfect for special occasions. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory. It all started many years ago when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own dear grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, creating delicious meals and treats with ease and grace.

One day, as I sat at her kitchen table watching her prepare dinner, she suddenly turned to me with a twinkle in her eye. "How would you like to learn how to make a special layered cake with cacao?" she asked, her voice filled with excitement.

I was thrilled at the thought of learning a new recipe, especially one that involved chocolate. I eagerly agreed, and my grandmother wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and guiding me through the process.

We started by creaming butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, then adding in eggs one at a time. Next came the dry ingredients - flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt - which we sifted together before folding into the batter.

But it was the addition of cacao powder that truly transformed the cake. As I measured out the dark, rich powder and mixed it into the batter, the sweet scent of chocolate filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Once the batter was ready, we poured it into round cake pans and baked them in the oven until they rose and turned a golden brown. As the cakes cooled, my grandmother showed me how to make a luscious chocolate frosting using melted butter, cacao powder, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk.

Finally, it was time to assemble the cake. We carefully placed one layer on a cake stand, spread a generous amount of frosting on top, and repeated the process with the second layer. A final dollop of frosting on top and a sprinkle of cacao powder completed the masterpiece.

When the cake was finished, my grandmother and I sat down at the kitchen table with two slices and a pot of hot tea. As we savored each bite of the rich, chocolatey cake, I knew that this recipe would become a treasured favorite.

Over the years, I have made this special layered cake with cacao for countless birthdays, holidays, and special occasions. Each time I bake it, I am transported back to that day in my grandmother's kitchen, learning the art of cooking from the best teacher I could have asked for.

And as I pass down this recipe to future generations, I hope that they too will feel the same joy and love that I do when making this delicious cake. The memory of discovering this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the bond between generations and the magic of sharing a homemade treat with those we love.