Greta Garbo Cake/Zserbo

Greta Garbo/Zserbo Cake - A Nostalgic Delight

If you're looking for a quick, simple, and flavorful dessert, look no further! The Greta Garbo cake, a beloved recipe that has accompanied me throughout my childhood, is a perfect choice for any celebration. This cake is not only delicious but also filled with memories, with a family story woven into each piece. Whether you serve it at a party or enjoy it quietly with a cup of tea, it won’t disappoint.

Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Baking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 200 g lard, butter, or margarine (choose lard for flakier layers)
- 150 g sugar
- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons sour cream
- 3 tablespoons warm milk
- 1 packet dry yeast (7 g)
- 600 g flour

For the filling:
- 300 g ground walnuts (you can adjust the amount to your preference)
- 150 g sugar
- 1 jar apricot jam (or your favorite jam)

For the glaze:
- 160 g powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 3 tablespoons hot water
- Colorful sprinkles for decoration

The Story of the Recipe

The Greta Garbo cake is a symbol of family culinary tradition. I grew up with its inviting aroma wafting through the house on holidays. Although at one point I got tired of it, now every bite reminds me of the moments spent with my mother, who was an expert at creating the most delicious sweets. So, let’s embark together on the preparation of this nostalgia-filled cake!

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast
Start by activating the yeast. In a cup, add the 3 tablespoons of warm milk and a teaspoon of sugar. Sprinkle the dry yeast on top and let it rise for 10 minutes until a foam forms.

Step 2: Butter Cream
In a large bowl, cream the butter (or margarine) with 150 g of sugar until fluffy. Add the eggs, sour cream, and the risen yeast. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

Step 3: Flour
Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing with a spatula or your hands until you obtain a smooth dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it. Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes. Let it rest for 30 minutes, covered with a damp cloth.

Step 4: Walnut Filling
In a separate bowl, mix the ground walnuts with 150 g of sugar. This will be the filling that enriches each layer of the cake.

Step 5: Divide the Dough
Divide the dough into three equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out the first layer of dough. Place it in a floured baking dish (or parchment paper if you prefer).

Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Spread half of the apricot jam over the first layer and sprinkle half of the walnut and sugar mixture on top. Repeat the process with the second layer, spreading the remaining jam and sprinkling the rest of the walnuts. Cover everything with the last layer, which you can prick here and there with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 7: Baking
Preheat the oven to 175 degrees Celsius and place the dish inside. Bake the cake for about 35 minutes, or until it turns golden and browns nicely on top.

Step 8: Glaze
Meanwhile, prepare the glaze. In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar with cocoa. Add the oil and gradually the hot water, mixing well until you obtain a smooth mixture.

Step 9: Finishing
After the cake has cooled, spread it with the cocoa glaze and decorate with colorful sprinkles.

Step 10: Serving
It is recommended not to store the cake in the fridge, so the flavors remain intact. You can serve it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful culinary experience.

Practical Tips

- Jam variation: You can experiment with different types of jam, such as peaches, plums, or cherries, to add a personal twist to the recipe.
- Fresh yeast: If you prefer, you can use fresh yeast instead of dry. Use about 20 g of fresh yeast.
- Toasted walnuts: Lightly toast the walnuts before adding them to the filling to enhance the flavor.
- Mom's advice: My mother always said that the secret to a perfect cake is love and patience. Take your time and enjoy the process!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What kind of jam can I use?
You can use any jam you like! Whether you choose apricot, raspberry, or even a combination of jams, the cake will be delicious.

2. How can I tell if the cake is done?
The cake is done when it turns golden on top, and when you poke it with a toothpick, it comes out clean.

3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen. Make sure it is well covered to prevent drying out.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake contains nutritious ingredients such as walnuts, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and vitamins. Whole flour, if used, adds fiber, aiding digestion. Despite its deliciousness, moderate consumption is essential, as the cake contains sugar and fats.

Conclusion

The Greta Garbo cake is more than just a dessert; it is a piece of my family's heart, a recipe that has crossed generations. I hope each bite brings you as much joy as it has brought me. It may not be perfect, but it is filled with love and memories. Happy cooking, and let’s enjoy every sweet moment together!