Katy's Cake

The dessert we will prepare today is a delicious cake with tender layers, a rich cream, and a fine meringue, perfect for impressing any guest. This recipe, which I have lovingly borrowed from family traditions, has a special charm and is proof that every recipe can carry the imprint of those who prepare it. I invite you to discover the magic of this cake, which we call 'Katy Cake,' and to make it the star of your table.

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 30-36 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:

*For the layers:*
- 500 g flour
- 130 g sugar
- 3 tablespoons of lard (or butter, if you prefer)
- 4 egg yolks
- a pinch of salt
- 1/2 packet of baking powder
- 4-5 tablespoons of sweet milk

*For the cream:*
- 150 g butter (70% fat)
- 130 g powdered sugar
- 100 g biscuits (ideally popular biscuits)
- 100 g roasted and coarsely chopped walnuts
- 4 tablespoons cocoa
- 4 tablespoons apricot jam (or other preferred jam)
- 1 cup of sweet milk (I used 1/2 cup due to the consistency of the jam)
- 1 layer from the three layers (crumbled)

*For the meringue:*
- 4 egg whites
- 200 g powdered sugar
- a pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons ground walnuts

*For decoration:*
- Crushed chocolate (optional, but recommended for a special appearance)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the layers:
- Start by preparing the dough for the layers. In a large bowl, mix the lard with salt and sugar until it becomes a homogeneous mixture.
- Add the egg yolks and milk, continuing to mix. Finally, sift the flour together with the baking powder and gradually incorporate them into the mixture.
- Knead the resulting dough until it becomes smooth. Divide it into three equal parts, which you will bake one at a time.

2. Baking the layers:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Roll out the first portion of dough on a sheet of baking paper, then place it in the lined tray (dimensions 22/35 cm). It is important to incorporate air into the dough, so use a fork to prick the surface of the layer.
- Bake the first layer for 10-12 minutes or until it becomes slightly golden. Remove it from the oven and let it cool. Repeat the process for the other two layers.

3. Preparing the cream:
- In a bowl, cream the butter at room temperature with powdered sugar and cocoa. Continue mixing until you obtain a creamy mixture.
- Add the milk, ground walnuts, jam, and the crumbled layer of dough. Mix well, and if you find the mixture too liquid, adjust with crushed biscuits to achieve the desired consistency.

4. Assembling the cake:
- Use the tray in which you baked the last layer (which has cooled) and evenly spread the cream on it. Then place the second layer on top and refrigerate to firm up the cream.

5. Preparing the meringue:
- Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form a foam, then gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to mix until you obtain a firm meringue.
- Transfer the meringue to a pot and place it over a double boiler for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Finally, add the ground walnuts.

6. Finalizing the cake:
- Spread the meringue evenly over the cake and sprinkle with crushed chocolate.
- Allow the cake to cool well, then cut it into servings and enjoy.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with different types of jam to customize the flavor of the cake. Peach or raspberry jam can add an interesting note.
- If you want a more aromatic meringue, you can add a few drops of vanilla or rum essence to the egg white mixture.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal results.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake contains ingredients that bring a variety of nutritional benefits. Nuts are rich in healthy fats and proteins, while cocoa contains antioxidants that can improve heart health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole flour or gluten-free flour, but the final texture will vary.
- How can I store the cake? It is recommended to keep it in the refrigerator, covered, to maintain its freshness. It can last up to a week.
- What drinks go well with this cake? A fruit tea or a flavored coffee are excellent accompaniments to highlight the sweet-sour taste of the cake.

I wish you much success in preparing this delicious cake! It will surely become a favorite in your family, just as it is for me. Each bite will remind you that cooking is a form of art and love.

 Ingredients: 3 sheets 500 g flour 130 g sugar 3 tablespoons of lard 4 egg yolks a pinch of salt 1/2 packet of baking powder 4-5 tablespoons of sweet milk Cream 1 crushed sheet 150 g butter with 70% fat 130 g powdered sugar 100 g biscuits 100 g roasted and coarsely chopped walnuts 4 tablespoons cocoa 4 tablespoons apricot jam 1 cup of sweet milk (I used 1/2 cup, my apricot jam has a more liquid consistency) Meringue 4 egg whites 200 g powdered sugar a pinch of salt 3 tablespoons ground walnuts (this was not in the recipe, I added it because I wanted) Decoration chopped chocolate

 Tags:  katy cake