Egyptian cake (recipe taken from Amalia's blog)

Egyptian Cake with Delicious Cream: A Treat for the Soul

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 16 slices

Holidays, family gatherings, or simply personal indulgent moments are ideal occasions to prepare a delicious and impressive cake. Today, I will guide you step by step in making an Egyptian Cake, a recipe rich in flavors, with thin layers and creamy texture. This is a recipe that will delight everyone, thanks to its fine texture and unmistakable taste.

A Brief Story About the Egyptian Cake

The Egyptian Cake is a classic recipe, cherished by generations, due to its unique combination of ingredients. It is a dessert that blends tradition with innovation, holding a special place in the hearts of cooking enthusiasts. With thin layers and creamy, this cake has become a symbol of goodness and hospitality. Each slice is an explosion of flavors that transports you to a world of refined tastes.

Ingredients

For the layers (3 layers to bake):
- 6 egg whites
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 1.5 tablespoons of flour
- 120 g ground nuts (or walnuts, as preferred)

For cream 1:
- 6 egg yolks
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 340 ml milk
- 2 tablespoons of flour (or cornstarch)
- 170 g butter (at room temperature)
- Vanilla essence (or vanilla sugar)

For cream 2:
- 200 ml whipped cream
- 150 g sugar
- 120 g crushed nuts (or walnuts, for a textured variant)

Necessary Utensils
- 3 cake pans (24 cm diameter)
- Electric mixer
- Saucepan
- Spatula
- Baking paper
- Plastic bag (for crushing nuts)

Step by Step: Preparing the Cake

Step 1: Preparing the Layers

1. Start by preheating the oven to 150°C. This step is essential for achieving tender and lightly browned layers.
2. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with the mixer until frothy. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until a shiny meringue forms.
3. Sift the flour over the meringue and add the ground nuts. Gently fold with a spatula to avoid deflating the meringue.
4. Line a cake pan with baking paper and pour in the meringue mixture, smoothing it out.
5. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes or until the layer turns golden. Remove it and let it cool on a rack. Repeat the process for the other layers.

Step 2: Preparing the Creams

1. Cream 1: In a saucepan, mix the egg yolks with the sugar, flour, and gradually added milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the mixture thickens.
2. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool. In a separate bowl, beat the butter until creamy, then slowly incorporate the cooled cream. Add the vanilla essence and a pinch of salt. Cream 1 is now ready!

3. Cream 2: Melt the sugar in a pan over low heat until it caramelizes. Pour it evenly onto a greased tray and let it cool. Once cooled, gently crush it in a plastic bag using a rolling pin.
4. Whip the cream with sugar and, once it has stiffened, add the crushed caramel and nuts. Gently mix to retain the airiness.

Step 3: Assembling the Cake

1. Place the first layer of cake on a platter. Spread 1/3 of cream 1, followed by 1/3 of cream 2. Continue with the second layer, repeating this process.
2. Finally, place the last layer of cake and decorate with the remaining whipped cream. Refrigerate the cake for a few hours to set and allow the flavors to meld.

Practical Tips

- Ingredient selection: Use fresh and quality ingredients for the best results. The butter should be at room temperature to incorporate easily into the cream.
- To save time: You can prepare the cake layers in advance and store them in airtight containers, allowing you to focus on the creams on the event day.
- Variations: Instead of nuts, you can use almonds or walnuts, and for a more intense flavor, add a bit of espresso to cream 2.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What if I don't have nuts? You can replace the nuts with walnuts, almonds, or even coconut flakes for a different taste.
2. How long does the cake last? The cake keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, but it is best consumed in the first 2-3 days.
3. Can I use store-bought whipped cream? Of course! Just make sure to choose a whipped cream with a high-fat content to achieve a creamy texture.
4. Can I freeze the cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake, but it is recommended to assemble it only before serving to maintain the texture of the layers.

Serving and Delicious Combinations

The Egyptian Cake pairs perfectly with a cup of aromatic coffee or a relaxing herbal tea. You can add some fresh fruits (such as strawberries or raspberries) alongside for a flavor contrast and an elegant look. Additionally, for an extra indulgence, you can serve it with vanilla or caramel ice cream.

Nutritional Benefits

The Egyptian Cake, while delicious, is a more indulgent choice. The nuts and seeds provide healthy fats and protein, while the eggs contribute to essential nutrient intake. Although portions should be moderated, each slice is an explosion of flavor and texture.

Now that you have all the necessary information at hand, all that’s left is to enjoy the cooking process and the final result. The Egyptian Cake is more than just a dessert; it is an experience that combines the love for cooking with the joy of sharing special moments with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!