Egyptian Cake

Egyptian Cake – A Creamy and Aromatic Delight

The Egyptian Cake is a culinary gem, known for its super creamy texture and rich flavors of hazelnuts and almonds. This recipe is not just a simple dessert, but a cooking experience that blends tradition with innovation. Each bite is a delicious journey, and today I will guide you step by step in preparing this special cake that is sure to impress anyone who tastes it.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes (for each layer)
Total time: approximately 2 hours (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 8-10

Your ingredients for a single layer:
- 2 egg whites
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon of flour
- 40 g of ground hazelnuts (you can combine with almonds, to taste)

Cream I:
- 6 egg yolks
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 340 ml of milk
- 170 g of butter

Praline Cream II:
- 200 g of sugar
- 140 g of finely chopped hazelnuts + almonds
- 200 ml of whipped cream

For decoration:
- Almond flakes
- Burnt sugar (sugar shards)

Step 1: Preparing the Layer
The first step in creating the Egyptian Cake is preparing the layers. Start by roasting the hazelnuts and almonds in the oven. This process will intensify the flavors and add a crunchy note. Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the hazelnuts and almonds on a tray. Let them roast for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Once cooled, finely grind them. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer until they become frothy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until the mixture becomes firm and shiny. Carefully fold in the flour, ground hazelnuts, and almonds using a spatula to avoid deflating the foam.

Pour the mixture into a 20 cm diameter baking tin lined with parchment paper. This size will provide a taller and more impressive layer. Bake the layer for 30 minutes, then let it cool. Repeat the process for the other two layers, ensuring they are all the same size.

Step 2: Making Cream I
While the layers are cooling, you can prepare the vanilla cream. In a small saucepan, beat the egg yolks with the sugar and vanilla sugar. Add the cornstarch and milk, continuously mixing with a whisk. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture until it thickens, being careful not to boil. When the cream becomes thick, add the butter and stir until completely melted. Let the cream cool.

Step 3: Making Praline Cream II
For the praline cream, caramelize the sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns a golden color. Pour the caramel onto a sheet of parchment paper and let it cool completely. Once the caramel is solidified, break it into small pieces and finely grind it.

In a bowl, mix the ground caramel with the chopped hazelnuts and almonds. Whip the cream until firm, then fold in the caramel mixture. This rich and aromatic cream will give the cake a unique flavor that will delight the taste buds.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake
It’s time to assemble the cake! Place the first layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of vanilla cream, followed by a layer of praline cream. Add the second layer and repeat the process, continuing until the last layer. Finally, use the remaining cream to cover the top and sides of the cake.

Step 5: Decorating
To add an elegant touch to the cake, decorate it with almond flakes and burnt sugar shards. You can create an artistic effect by adding almond flakes around the edges and sprinkling burnt sugar on top.

Practical Tips:
- Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.
- Use a good quality mixer to beat the egg whites, making the process much easier.
- If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can add more sugar to the praline cream.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Of course! You can substitute hazelnuts and almonds with pecans or Brazil nuts for a distinctive flavor.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 5 days.

3. Can I replace the butter with something else?
Yes, you can use margarine or a plant-based butter for a healthier option.

Ideal Pairings:
The Egyptian Cake pairs perfectly with a fruit tea or a flavorful coffee. You can also enjoy this dessert alongside vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce for a delicious contrast.

Nutritional Benefits:
This cake offers a good source of protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants from the nuts, while the caramelized sugar adds a touch of energy. Although it’s a dessert, when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to put your cooking skills into practice and enjoy an absolutely delicious dessert. The Egyptian Cake is more than just a recipe; it’s an expression of passion for cooking and the desire to offer loved ones a special moment. Enjoy!