Greta Garbo Cake
Greta Garbo Cake: A Flavorful Delight with Plum Jam and Nuts
Welcome to the sweet universe of cakes! Today, I present to you a special recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring back fond childhood memories. This is the Greta Garbo cake, a perfect combination of tender layers, aromatic plum jam, and crunchy nuts. This recipe is a small tribute to a great actress, but I would call it "Autumn Fragrance," as its flavors perfectly match the season we are in.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 16
Ingredients for the dough:
- 200 g butter (ideally at room temperature for better incorporation)
- 3 eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 250 ml sour cream (choose a rich sour cream for a fuller taste)
- 100 g brown sugar (adds a caramelized note to the cake)
- 1 packet of dry yeast (or 25 g fresh yeast)
- 1 pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
- Vanilla (one pod or 1-2 tablespoons of essence)
- Flour as needed (approximately 700 g, but may vary depending on the type of flour)
Ingredients for the filling:
- 2 jars of plum jam (approximately 500 g, preferably homemade for an authentic taste)
- 350 g sugar (or to taste)
- 500 g nuts and almonds (finely ground, but you can also use just nuts)
Preparing the dough:
1. Activating the yeast: In a large bowl, mix the yeast with the eggs and brown sugar. This will activate the yeast and help the dough rise. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Adding wet ingredients: Melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Add it to the yeast mixture, followed by the sour cream and a splash of vanilla. Mix well until the ingredients are homogeneous.
3. Incorporating the flour: Start adding the flour gradually until you obtain an elastic dough that pulls away from the sides of the bowl. It is important not to add too much flour at once, as each type of flour absorbs liquids differently.
4. Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place (for example, near the stove) for about 30-40 minutes, until it doubles in volume.
Preparing the filling:
1. Grinding the nuts: Use a food processor or a mortar to grind the nuts and almonds. They should have a fine texture, but not so fine that they become powder.
2. Mixing the ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the ground nuts with the sugar and a splash of vanilla. This filling will add a special flavor to the cake.
Assembling the cake:
1. Dividing the dough: After the dough has risen, divide it into four equal parts. This will form the four layers of the cake.
2. Rolling out the layers: Roll each piece of dough on a sheet of parchment paper, covered with cling film. This trick will help you handle the layers more easily and avoid tearing them. Make sure the layers are of even thickness.
3. Adding jam and filling: Place the first layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Spread it with some of the plum jam (you can use other types of jam, but plums provide a pleasant acidity that perfectly complements the sweetness). Then sprinkle some of the nut and sugar mixture. Repeat the process for all layers, making sure to leave the last layer uncovered.
4. Baking: Place the cake in a preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 40-45 minutes, until it is beautifully golden. The oven must be well preheated to achieve even baking.
5. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the tray. Once cooled, cut it into squares and, if desired, sprinkle with ground nuts or powdered sugar for a festive look.
Useful tips:
- Use high-quality jam for a better taste. Homemade jams usually have a more intense flavor and are less processed.
- If you want an extra flavor note, add a little cinnamon or nutmeg to the nut mixture.
- Store the cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can be consumed for several days, but it will be just as delicious even after a week if stored properly.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of jam? Absolutely! Apricot or raspberry jam is just as delicious.
- How can I adapt the recipe to be gluten-free? You can use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend, being careful to adjust the quantities.
- Is the cake suitable for vegans? You can try replacing the eggs with a banana or apple puree mixture, but the final texture will be different.
Delicious pairings:
Serve the Greta Garbo cake alongside a cup of aromatic tea or a creamy cappuccino. Additionally, vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce could create a wonderful contrast with the sweetness of the cake.
This recipe is not just a way to enjoy a delicious dessert, but also an opportunity to create special moments with loved ones. Whether you savor it with family or share it with friends, the Greta Garbo cake is a true indulgence that will turn every meal into an unforgettable feast. Enjoy every bite and let yourself be carried away by memories and the flavors of autumn!
Ingredients: 200 g butter, 3 eggs, vanilla, 250 ml sour cream, 100 g brown sugar, a pinch of salt, 1 packet of dry yeast, flour as needed (I measured and it was 700 g). Filling: 2 jars of plum jam (I used more, around 500 g), vanilla, 350 g sugar (Lili has 400 g), 500 g ground walnuts and almonds (I didn't have the full amount of walnuts).
