SOUR CREAM CAKE

Buttermilk cake – a delight that is deceptively simple, yet boasts a refined taste and a slightly creamy texture. This cake recipe combines delicate pastry sheets with a delicious buttermilk filling, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether served as a dessert at a festive meal or as a quick snack, this cake will surely become a family favorite.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 20 pieces

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 package of pastry sheets (we recommend Linco for fragility and taste)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 kg of buttermilk
- Sugar – to taste (approximately 200-250g is ideal)
- Spices: vanilla essence and rum essence (optional, but recommended for added flavor)
- Oil for greasing (can use canola or sunflower oil)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the pan: Start by greasing a large pan with oil. This will prevent the pastry sheets from sticking and ensure a perfectly textured cake. Make sure you have a pan of suitable size (approximately 30x40 cm) to achieve an even cake.

2. Laying the sheets: Unpack the pastry sheets and take half of them. Grease each sheet with a thin layer of oil, then carefully lay them in the prepared pan. The sheet should be even and cover the bottom of the pan.

3. Preparing the mixture: In a large bowl, beat the eggs well with the sugar. Add the buttermilk and continue mixing until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. This is the moment to add the spices – the vanilla and rum essence – to give your cake a wonderful flavor.

4. Pouring the mixture: Carefully pour the egg and buttermilk mixture over the pastry sheets in the pan. Make sure you have evenly covered all the sheets so they absorb the delicious filling well. Retain a cup of this mixture for later use.

5. Adding the top sheets: Place the remaining greased pastry sheets over the mixture in the pan. This will form a crispy lid for the cake.

6. Finalizing the preparation: Take the cup of mixture you reserved and pour it evenly over the top sheets. This will help maintain moisture and prevent the sheets from drying out.

7. Baking the cake: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the cake for about 30 minutes. It’s important to monitor the cake in the last few minutes – if you notice it puffing up, you can lightly poke it with the tip of a knife to allow the steam to escape.

8. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting. After it has cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a festive appearance. You can serve it plain or with a fruit sauce or cream.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake is high in protein due to the eggs and buttermilk, making it a healthier option compared to other fat-rich cakes. Buttermilk provides a source of probiotics, good for the digestive system, and the sugar can be adjusted according to preferences, making the cake healthier.

Possible variations:
- Fruits: You can add berries, caramelized apples, or pears to the buttermilk mixture for a unique taste and texture.
- Nuts or hazelnuts: Grinding some nuts or hazelnuts and adding them to the mixture will provide a pleasant crunch.
- Cocoa: If you want a chocolate version of the cake, you can add cocoa powder to the egg and buttermilk mixture.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk? While buttermilk provides a creamier texture, you can use regular milk, but add a little vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the acidity.
- How do I store the cake? The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap.
- What drinks pair well with this cake? A cup of green tea or a flavored latte would perfectly complement this cake, providing a pleasant contrast.

This buttermilk cake is not just a simple recipe but also an opportunity to gather the family around the table, share moments of joy, and savor a delicious dessert. Try making it and let its aromas carry you away, and the result will surely reward you!