Egyptian dessert cake

Vanilla Cream and Hazelnut Cake – A Refined Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Welcome to the world of sweet delicacies! Today, I will guide you step by step on a culinary journey to prepare a refined cake with vanilla cream and hazelnuts, a recipe that is sure to impress any guest. This cake features delicate layers of crispy sheets, filled with a smooth vanilla cream and topped with a caramel hazelnut topping that will leave you drooling. Let's get started!

A Brief History of Cake

Cakes have a long history, associated with celebrations and festivities. Over the years, different cultures have developed their own variations, each with unique ingredients and techniques. Vanilla cream cake, with its fine and delicate layers, has become a symbol of elegance in desserts, often served on special occasions.

Ingredients

For the sheets (3 servings)
- 6 egg whites
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 6 tablespoons of ground hazelnuts
- 1.5 tablespoons of flour

For Cream 1
- 6 egg yolks
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 vanilla essence
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 375 ml milk
- 150 ml heavy cream

For Cream 2
- 120 g hazelnuts
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 250 ml heavy cream

Step by Step: Preparing the Cake

Step 1: Preparing the Sheets

1. Whip the egg whites: In a clean bowl, whip the egg whites until frothy. It is important that the bowl is completely dry to achieve a perfect meringue.

2. Add the sugar: Gradually incorporate the sugar, continuing to whip until the mixture becomes glossy and firm. This is when the meringue is ready. You can check if it is whipped enough by turning the bowl upside down; if it doesn’t spill, it’s perfect!

3. Incorporate the dry ingredients: Add the ground hazelnuts and flour, gently folding with a spatula until combined. Avoid vigorous mixing to maintain the air in the egg whites.

4. Bake the sheets: On a baking tray lined with parchment paper, spread the mixture into a circle with a diameter of 24 cm. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sheet is lightly golden. Repeat the process for the other two sheets.

Step 2: Preparing Cream 1

5. Prepare the cream: In a small saucepan, combine the egg yolks with the cornstarch, sugar, and gradually added milk. Place over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens, resembling pudding. It is essential to stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

6. Cool the cream: Once the cream has thickened, allow it to cool completely. Add the vanilla essence for extra flavor.

7. Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until firm. Carefully fold in the cooled pudding cream, mixing gently until combined.

Step 3: Preparing Cream 2

8. Caramelization: In a small pan, melt the sugar until it becomes caramel. Pour it onto a piece of parchment paper to cool. Once cooled, crush it into small pieces.

9. Hazelnuts: Crush the hazelnuts in a mortar or with a food processor, leaving some larger pieces for decoration.

10. Whip the cream: In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until firm. Add the crushed caramel and hazelnuts, mixing carefully.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake

11. Layering: Place the first cake sheet on a serving platter. Spread 1/3 of Cream 1, followed by 1/3 of Cream 2. Repeat this process for the other sheets, finishing with Cream 2 on the top layer.

12. Chill the cake: Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours, ideally overnight. This time allows the flavors to meld and the caramel to soften slightly in the cream.

Step 5: Decorating

13. Decorate the cake: Finally, decorate the cake with whole hazelnuts, grated chocolate, or liquid caramel, depending on your preferences. Each detail adds a touch of elegance and refinement.

Useful Tips

- Choose quality ingredients: Use good quality chocolate and fresh hazelnuts for a more intense flavor.
- Test the consistency: When preparing the creams, ensure you have a smooth and homogeneous consistency, without lumps.
- Buy roasted hazelnuts: If you don’t have time to roast hazelnuts at home, buy them roasted and salted for a more complex flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of nuts?
Yes, you can use pistachios, almonds, or pecans, depending on personal preferences.

2. How can I make the cake easier?
For a simpler version, you can use store-bought cake sheets, saving time in preparation.

3. How long can the cake be stored?
The cake keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it is delicious the next day too.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

Each serving of this cake contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of cream and sugar used. Hazelnuts provide nutritional benefits, being rich in protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants. It is a dessert that, enjoyed in moderation, can be part of a balanced diet.

Serving and Pairings

This delicate cake pairs perfectly with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant tea. Additionally, for a contrast of textures, you can serve it alongside a fresh fruit sauce or vanilla ice cream.

A Personal Note

I must admit, this cake has become my family's favorite, especially for special occasions. I have found that adding a splash of orange essence to Cream 1 brings a surprising yet delicious flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors!

Now that you have all the details to prepare this special cake with vanilla cream and hazelnuts, all that’s left is to get to work. Each bite will be an explosion of flavors, and you will be proud to have created something truly special! Enjoy!