Ileana Cake

Ileana Cake - A Delight That Enchants the Senses

I present to you a special recipe that combines refinement with nostalgia, a cake that has traversed generations and will surely bring a smile to anyone who tastes it. This is Ileana Cake, a dessert that will fill your home with enticing aromas and become a family favorite. With a perfect blend of nuts and a fine cream, this recipe is ideal for any special occasion or simply to indulge yourself.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10-15 minutes per sheet
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12-16

Ingredients

For the sheets:
- 10 egg whites
- 300 g granulated sugar
- 100 g flour
- 300 g ground nuts

For the cream:
- 10 egg yolks
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 4 packets vanilla sugar
- 300 g granulated or powdered sugar
- 250 g butter or margarine

A Bit of History

Ileana Cake is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary tradition that has been passed down through the years, bringing together flavors and childhood memories. With each bite, you will feel how the flavors of nuts and vanilla intertwine, creating a moment of absolute indulgence. It is a perfect recipe to share with loved ones, whether you are celebrating a special event or simply want to enjoy a delicious dessert.

Preparing the Sheets

1. Beat the egg whites: In a large bowl, start by beating the egg whites with a mixer until you achieve a firm foam. It is important to use a clean bowl, free of grease, to obtain a stable foam.

2. Add the sugar: While continuing to mix, gradually add the granulated sugar. Keep mixing until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture becomes shiny.

3. Incorporate the nuts: Use a wooden spoon to add the ground nuts to the egg white foam. Gently mix, being careful not to deflate the mixture.

4. Add the flour: Finally, sift the flour into the mixture and gently fold it in with upward strokes to integrate the ingredients.

5. Prepare the baking tray: Grease the tray with margarine and dust it with flour to prevent sticking. This is essential for achieving nicely baked sheets.

6. Bake the sheets: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and spread each portion on the back of the tray. Bake each sheet in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 10-15 minutes, until they become slightly golden. Be sure to watch the sheets closely, as they bake quickly.

7. Cooling the sheets: After baking, let the sheets cool completely on a wire rack.

Preparing the Cream

1. Mixing the egg yolks: In a bowl, combine the egg yolks with the sugar and vanilla sugar. Mix gently, without making foam, for about 4 minutes.

2. Add the milk: Incorporate the milk and mix again. It is important not to incorporate too much air during this process.

3. Double boiler: Place the bowl over a double boiler and stir continuously until the cream thickens. This may take about 10-15 minutes.

4. Cooling the cream: Once the cream has thickened, let it cool completely.

5. Incorporate the butter: Whip the butter until fluffy and gradually add it to the cooled cream, mixing well to achieve a smooth and homogeneous texture.

Assembling the Cake

1. Spreading the cream: Use a spatula to spread a generous layer of cream on each sheet. Ensure even distribution for a balanced cake.

2. Grated chocolate: On the last sheet, you can grate some chocolate on top for added flavor and a special appearance.

3. Final cooling: Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight, to set and allow the flavors to meld.

Serving and Suggestions

Ileana Cake is served cold, cut into squares or rectangles. It pairs perfectly with a cup of aromatic coffee or a delicate tea. For a pleasant contrast, you can accompany the dessert with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce.

Tips and Variations

- Different nuts: You can experiment with other types of nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to give your cake a different flavor.
- Flavors: Add a hint of rum or almond essence to the cream for a more intense taste.
- Decoration: You can decorate the cake with fresh fruits or a chocolate sauce, adding a splash of color and flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Ileana Cake is rich in protein due to the egg whites and yolks, while the nuts provide an excellent source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. However, it is wise to be mindful of the caloric intake considering the amounts of sugar and butter. A serving of cake can contain approximately 350-400 calories, so enjoy this treat in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can it be made a few days in advance? Yes, the cake keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days, as the flavors intensify over time.
- What can I do if I don’t have nuts? You can substitute the nuts with ground cereals or crushed cookies for a different texture.
- How can I store the cake? Keep the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent it from drying out.

I wish you great success in making this special cake! Ileana Cake is not just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that will transport you back in time and create beautiful memories with your loved ones. So, get ready to enjoy a sweet indulgence and impress everyone with your culinary skills!