Somloi Cake

Somloi Cake: A Festive Delight with Three Delicious Layers

The Somloi cake is a culinary masterpiece that combines rich flavors and fine textures, certainly a dessert that will impress on any festive occasion. This cake emerged in the late 1950s in a renowned restaurant in Budapest and quickly became a symbol of sophisticated sweets. Combining layers of vanilla, cocoa, and walnut, all filled with delightful vanilla cream, the Somloi cake is not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a true work of art.

Preparation time: 45 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 servings

Ingredients

*For the cake layers:*

1. Vanilla layer
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon hot water
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2-3 drops vanilla essence
- A pinch of salt

2. Cocoa layer
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon hot water
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2.5 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon cocoa
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt

3. Walnut layer
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon hot water
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon ground walnuts
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt

*For the syrup:*
- 50 g sugar
- 50 ml water
- 40 ml rum essence (about 2 vials)

*For the vanilla cream:*
- 600 ml milk
- 1 vanilla pod
- 200 g sugar
- 100 g flour
- 3 eggs

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Layers
We start by preparing the three layers, a process that may seem complex but is actually quite simple. It helps to have all ingredients organized before starting.

Vanilla layer:
- Separate the egg whites from the yolks. In a bowl, add a pinch of salt to the egg whites and start beating them with a mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture becomes glossy and firm.
- Set the mixer aside. Add the yolks one by one, gently mixing with a wooden spoon.
- Incorporate the hot water and then the flour mixed with baking powder. Mix gently, being careful not to lose the air in the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a cake pan (28 cm) lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 15-20 minutes, until the layer turns golden and passes the toothpick test. After baking, let it cool.

Cocoa layer:
Repeat the same steps as above, but add cocoa to the flour mixture. Bake in the same manner.

Walnut layer:
Use the same method, replacing the flour with ground walnuts. Bake like the other layers.

2. Preparing the Syrup
In a pot over heat, combine the water and sugar. Let it boil until the sugar completely dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly. Finally, add the rum essence for extra flavor.

3. Vanilla Cream
- In a saucepan, bring 300 ml of milk to a boil, adding the seeds and pod of vanilla.
- In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the remaining milk (300 ml), sugar, and flour. Mix well to avoid lumps.
- When the milk starts to boil, pass the egg mixture through a sieve into the saucepan and stir continuously with a wooden spoon until the cream thickens.
- Beat the egg whites with the remaining sugar until stiff peaks form and carefully fold them into the warm cream.

4. Assembling the Cake
- Take the first vanilla layer and soak it with the prepared syrup. Spread one-third of the vanilla cream, sprinkle ground walnuts, and place the cocoa layer on top. Repeat the soaking and cream layering process, followed by the walnut layer.
- Finally, cover the cake with the remaining cream and sprinkle ground walnuts on top and sides. Decorate with raisins and whole nuts for a festive look.

5. Serving
The Somloi cake is wonderful served with whipped cream or a chocolate glaze that adds extra flavor. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special moment.

Practical Tips
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for an even mixture.
- Use a high-quality mixer to achieve perfect foam.
- Do not open the oven door during baking, as this can cause the layers to collapse.
- If you want a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar in the cream or syrup.

Nutritional Benefits
The Somloi cake, although a calorie-rich dessert, also offers nutritional benefits due to its ingredients. Walnuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, proteins, and vitamins, while vanilla adds natural flavor without the need for artificial additives.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute walnuts with another ingredient?
Yes, you can use ground almonds or hazelnuts, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I keep the cake fresh longer?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is recommended to be consumed within 2-3 days.

3. What drinks pair well with Somloi Cake?
A sweet wine or a fruit tea will pair perfectly with this indulgent dessert.

Try this Somloi cake recipe and let yourself be carried away by its refined flavors! Each slice will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones, turning every occasion into a celebration of taste. Bon appétit!