Marlenka

Marlenska Dessert: A Delicacy with a Story

Marlenska is a dessert that combines tradition with innovation, rooted in Armenian recipes but adapted over the years to become a beloved cake in many corners of the world. This cake, rich in creams and textures, is perfect for any occasion but can also be enjoyed without a specific reason. With a sweet taste and an unmistakable aroma, Marlenska transforms into a sweet madness, with layers of delicate sheets and a velvety cream that will delight your taste buds.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the sheets:
- 250 g sugar
- 80 g butter or margarine
- 2 eggs
- 5 tablespoons milk
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon cocoa
- 600 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda

For the cream:
- 2 eggs
- 30 g honey
- 60 g butter
- 230 ml condensed milk
- 150 g ground nuts/almonds/hazelnuts

For the glaze:
- 75 g chocolate
- 25 g butter

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Sheets
Start by preparing the sheets. In a large bowl, mix the sugar, butter (or margarine), and the two eggs. Add the milk, honey, and cocoa, then thoroughly combine the mixture.

Helpful tips: Use butter at room temperature for easier incorporation. Honey adds not only sweetness but also a distinct flavor.

Once you have a homogeneous mixture, incorporate the flour and baking soda. Mix until you obtain a soft but moldable dough.

Divide the dough into 5 equal portions. Place each portion on the back of a greased and floured baking tray. It is important to integrate this step as it will facilitate the detachment of the sheets after baking.

Tip: Before placing the sheets in the oven, prick them lightly with a fork to prevent puffing.

Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the sheets for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn slightly golden. After baking, let them cool on a wire rack.

Step 2: Preparing the Cream
Meanwhile, prepare the cream. In a bowl, melt the butter over low heat. In another container, beat the eggs and gradually add the melted butter (but not hot) and honey.

Add the condensed milk and place the mixture over low heat, stirring continuously until the cream thickens. Don't worry if the cream seems liquid at first; once it cools, it will have a pleasant texture.

Nutritional notes: Condensed milk provides a high calorie content but also protein. Using nuts or almonds not only enhances the flavor but also brings beneficial fatty acids.

Step 3: Assembling the Cake
After the sheets have completely cooled, begin assembling. Divide the cream into 4 equal parts and fill each layer of sheet with a portion of cream. Sprinkle ground nuts between each layer for added texture and flavor.

If you desire a richer cake, feel free to add more cream between layers. Finally, cover the last sheet and sprinkle ground nuts, then add the chocolate glaze.

Step 4: Preparing the Glaze
For the glaze, melt the chocolate with the butter over a double boiler. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition, then let it cool slightly before drizzling it over the cake.

Serving: Allow the cake to sit in a cool place overnight. This step is crucial as the sheets will absorb moisture and blend perfectly with the cream, becoming softer and easier to cut.

Serving Tips
Marlenska is delicious both on its own and accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce. A cup of coffee or a fragrant tea pairs perfectly with the sweetness of this cake.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I replace condensed milk with something else?
Yes, you can use cream cheese or vanilla pudding, but the taste will vary.

2. How long can the cake be stored?
Marlenska keeps well in the refrigerator for 4-5 days, but it is recommended to consume it within the first two days for the best flavors.

3. How can I vary the recipe?
You can experiment with different types of nuts, adding, for example, pistachios or pecans. You can also replace honey with maple syrup for a different flavor.

Conclusion
Marlenska is much more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings together tradition and innovation. Preparing this cake can become a pleasant family activity, and the final result will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of taste! Enjoy!