Romanita cake

Romanita Cake - A Delicacy with a Story and Unforgettable Taste

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 75 minutes (25 minutes per layer, 3 times)
Total time: 95 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16

Introduction

The Romanita Cake is a dessert that brings back nostalgic memories when sweets were enjoyed on every special occasion. This cake with fine layers and vanilla cream is perfect for pampering family and friends at any celebration or simple gathering. Its name comes from an urban legend from the '90s, when a charismatic personality won the hearts of many. Whether you call it Romanita or Petre Roman, it will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Base (3 layers):
- 6 eggs
- 8 tablespoons sugar
- 12 tablespoons water
- 12 tablespoons ground walnuts
- 6 tablespoons flour
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 packet baking powder
- Vanilla sugar (3 packets)
- A pinch of salt

For the Caramel:
- 6 tablespoons sugar (2 tablespoons for each layer)

For the Vanilla Cream:
- 4 eggs
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 1 liter milk
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 1 packet vanilla pudding
- A pinch of salt
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 package butter (approx. 200 g), left at room temperature

For Decoration:
- Grated chocolate (optional, for an extra touch of elegance)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Base:
Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential to use a clean, dry bowl to beat the egg whites. Add a pinch of salt and a few drops of lemon juice. Beat the egg whites until firm and shiny. This is a key step to achieving a fluffy base.

2. Adding Sugar:
Once the egg whites are ready, gradually add the sugar and vanilla sugar while continuing to mix. Then, add water in the same manner to maintain an airy texture.

3. Yolks and Walnuts:
Incorporate the yolks one by one, mixing gently. It is important not to beat the mixture to avoid losing air from the egg whites. Add the ground walnuts, flour, baking powder, and lemon zest. Mix gently with a spatula.

4. Baking the Layers:
Divide the mixture into 3 equal parts. Line a 23x36 cm baking tray with parchment paper and bake each layer at 180°C for 25 minutes. Each layer should be golden and easily come off the paper.

5. Preparing the Vanilla Cream:
While the layers cool, prepare the cream. Mix the yolks with the sugar in a bowl, add a little cold milk, then the vanilla pudding. In another container, heat the rest of the milk, adding the yolk mixture. Stir continuously, adding a pinch of salt and lemon zest until the cream thickens.

6. Incorporating the Butter:
After the cream has boiled 3 times, remove from heat and add the butter cut into cubes. Let the cream cool.

7. Beating the Egg Whites for the Cream:
Beat the 4 egg whites with the vanilla sugar and lemon juice until firm. Gently incorporate them into the cooled cream.

8. Caramelizing:
For each layer of the base, caramelize 2 tablespoons of sugar in a small pot, being careful not to burn it. When the sugar is completely melted, quickly pour it over each layer, spreading it evenly.

9. Assembling:
Start with the first layer, spread 1/3 of the cream, follow with the second layer, 1/3 of the cream, and continue with the last layer and the remaining cream. Decorate with grated chocolate for an elegant look. Let the cake chill in the fridge until the next day to allow the caramel to soak into the layers.

Practical Tips

- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting for a more homogeneous mixture.
- You can add rum essence to the vanilla cream for an extra flavor.
- If you want a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the caramel.
- The Romanita Cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or fragrant tea.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

Each serving has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the serving size and ingredients used. The cake contains protein from eggs, healthy fats from butter and nuts, as well as carbohydrates from sugar and flour. Although it is a dessert, consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes, you can use almonds or hazelnuts, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I store the cake for longer?
Keep the cake in an airtight container in the fridge, where it can last up to 5 days.

3. Can this cake be frozen?
I do not recommend freezing it, as the texture of the layers and cream may be affected.

Conclusion

The Romanita Cake is more than just a dessert; it is a delicious story that you can share with loved ones. With each bite, you will evoke beautiful memories and create new ones. So gather your recipes, put on your apron, and enjoy cooking! Bon appétit!