Simple Greta Garbo Cake

Greta Garbo Cake – A Classic Delicacy with a Touch of Elegance

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 12-16

The Greta Garbo cake is a perfect choice to bring a touch of elegance and flavor to any occasion. This classic recipe, which combines delicate textures and flavors, has become a favorite in households, offering a pleasant surprise with every slice. With a soft dough and aromatic fillings, this cake is not only easy to prepare but also a true feast for the senses.

A Brief History

The name of this cake evokes the image of a legendary celebrity, and each slice has a story to tell. Inspired by the refinement and elegance of actress Greta Garbo, the cake gained popularity due to its simplicity and accessible ingredients. It is perfect for serving at tea time or special occasions, with a versatility that allows it to shine on any event's table.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 200 g butter or margarine, at room temperature
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 eggs
- 600 g flour
- 3 teaspoons instant yeast

For the filling:
- 2 cups ground walnuts
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 jar of jam (preferably apricot, strawberry, or cherry)

For the glaze:
- 1 package chocolate glaze (e.g., Dr. Oetker)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough
In a large bowl, add the butter or margarine and sugar. Mix well until the mixture becomes creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate the sour cream, continuing to mix.

2. Adding the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the flour with the instant yeast. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, stirring with a spatula or your hands. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.

3. Let the Dough Rise
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for one hour. You will notice how its volume increases, becoming fluffy and airy.

4. Dividing the Dough
After the dough has risen, divide it into three equal parts. This is an important step, as each layer will contribute to the final texture of the cake.

5. Forming the Layers
On a floured surface, roll out the first piece of dough into a thin layer, sized appropriately for the baking tray (approximately 30x20 cm). Transfer the layer to the tray and evenly spread the jam on top. Sprinkle a mixture of ground walnuts and sugar over it.

6. Repeating the Process
Repeat the process for the second layer, again applying jam and the walnut and sugar mixture. Place the third layer on top and use a fork to make a few holes; this will help with even baking.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 160 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and bake the cake for about 1 hour, or until it becomes golden and firm to the touch. It is important not to open the oven door during the first 30 minutes to allow the dough to rise properly.

8. Preparing the Glaze
While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze according to the package instructions. A chocolate glaze will add a delicious layer of sweetness and perfectly complement the flavors of the cake.

9. Finishing the Cake
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Pour the chocolate glaze over the cake, allowing it to drip slightly over the edges. Let the glaze set before cutting the cake into slices, either square or diagonal.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Ingredients: Use quality butter for better flavor. If you prefer a lower-fat option, margarine is an excellent alternative.
- Jam: Apricot jam adds a fruity and sweet note, but feel free to experiment with other flavors. Strawberries and cherries are just as delicious.
- Nuts: Ensure that the nuts are fresh for an intense flavor. You can even lightly toast them before adding to enhance the aroma.
- Ingredient Temperature: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature, which helps the dough rise evenly.

Variations and Combinations

- Whole Wheat Variations: You can experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but keep in mind that the texture will be slightly different.
- Adding Spices: A teaspoon of cinnamon or vanilla in the dough can add an extra pleasant flavor.
- Serving: The Greta Garbo cake pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. Additionally, a fruit sorbet or vanilla ice cream can provide a nice contrast to the cake's fluffy texture.

Nutritional Benefits

Although the Greta Garbo cake is a delicacy, its ingredients can also provide some nutritional benefits. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Additionally, sour cream adds calcium, while eggs provide essential nutrients such as vitamin D and B12.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of nut?
Yes, pecans or ground almonds can be used as delicious alternatives.

2. What should I do if I don’t have instant yeast?
You can use active dry yeast, but you will need to dissolve it in warm water with a little sugar before adding it to the dough.

3. How can I store the cake?
The cake keeps well at room temperature, covered with a damp towel, for a few days. You can also freeze it for a longer duration.

4. Is it possible to make the cake without sugar?
Yes, you can use natural or artificial sweeteners, but the taste will vary depending on the type chosen.

The Greta Garbo cake is a simple yet sophisticated recipe that will impress any guest. With every bite, you will not only taste the sweetness and flavor but also a piece of the culinary history that inspired this delicacy. So embrace the art of cooking and let your creativity shine! Enjoy!