Dessert - Meringue cake with wafers and vanilla cream by Vanesa E. - Recipia
Meringue Cake with Wafer Layers and Vanilla Cream

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 servings

This meringue cake recipe with wafer layers and vanilla cream is not just a delicacy, but also a story of tradition, combining textures and flavors in a perfect way. The light, airy meringue layers blend perfectly with the rich vanilla cream and crunchy wafers, creating a dessert you won't forget anytime soon.

Ingredients

For Layer 1:
- 6 egg whites
- 8 tablespoons sugar
- 3 packets vanilla sugar
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 100 g colored coconut
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 pinch salt
- ½ packet saffron baking powder
- 1 wafer sheet

For Layer 2:
- 6 egg whites
- 8 tablespoons sugar
- 3 packets vanilla sugar
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 100 g ground nuts
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 pinch salt
- ½ packet saffron baking powder
- 1 wafer sheet

For Cream:
- 6 egg yolks
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla essence
- 1.2 l milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 12 tablespoons flour
- 100 g butter
- 300 g mascarpone

For Decoration:
- 50 g dark chocolate

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Layers

1. Start by preheating the oven to 180 °C. Make sure you have all the ingredients ready.
2. In a large bowl, add the 6 egg whites and a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer to beat them until frothy. Patience is key here! Start at a low speed and gradually increase.
3. Gradually add the 8 tablespoons of sugar, mixing vigorously. Continue to beat until the mixture forms a firm meringue. Now add the vanilla sugar and lemon juice, continuing to mix.
4. In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Sift this mixture over the egg whites and gently fold with a spatula to avoid deflating the meringue.
5. Add the colored coconut and gently mix until incorporated. Repeat these steps for Layer 2, but use ground nuts instead of coconut.

Step 2: Baking the Layers

1. Prepare a baking tray of about 25/36 cm, lining it with baking paper. Place a wafer sheet in the tray, then pour the first layer on top.
2. Bake the layer in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. Check if it's done using a toothpick; it should come out clean.

Step 3: Preparing the Vanilla Cream

1. In a bowl, mix the egg yolks with sugar, salt, and flour. Add a little cold milk to dilute the mixture.
2. In a separate pot, bring the remaining milk to a boil. Once the milk is hot, gradually pour it over the egg yolk mixture, stirring continuously.
3. Place the pot over low heat and keep stirring until the cream thickens, similar to a pudding. Once it reaches the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and add the diced butter and vanilla essence. Mix well until the butter is completely melted.
4. Let the cream cool, covered, at room temperature. Once cooled, gradually fold in the mascarpone into the vanilla cream, mixing gently.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake

1. Once the layer has cooled, spread some of the vanilla cream over the first layer, then place another wafer sheet on top.
2. Place the second layer on top, followed by the remaining cream. Sprinkle grated chocolate on top for extra flavor and an attractive appearance.

Practical Tips

- Patience when Beating Egg Whites: Make sure no yolk remains in the egg whites. Any fat or water will prevent them from whipping well.
- Vanilla Sugar: You can use natural vanilla sugar for a more intense flavor, or make it at home by combining sugar with vanilla pods.
- Customization: If desired, you can add flavors like cocoa to the egg white layers or replace mascarpone with butter for a lighter version.
- Soaking the Layers: If you want extra moisture, you can lightly soak the layers with a syrup of water and sugar or with rum essence.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of nuts? Of course! You can experiment with ground almonds or hazelnuts for a different taste.
2. How can I tell if the cream is ready? The cream should be thick enough to hold on a spoon, similar to a pudding.
3. Does the cake keep well? The cake keeps excellently in the fridge, tasting even better the next day.

Serving Suggestions

This cake can be served alongside a cup of coffee, a fragrant tea, or even a sweet wine. Give it a festive look by adding some fresh fruit as decoration.

Nutritional Benefits

The cake is a source of protein from the egg whites and yolks, while the nuts provide healthy fats. Mascarpone, although rich in calories, offers a creamy and delicious taste, making it an excellent choice for special occasions.

Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving (depending on portioning and ingredients used).

Enjoy this delicious cake, which will surely impress everyone! Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!
Dessert - Meringue cake with wafers and vanilla cream by Vanesa E. - Recipia

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