Maria-Elena dessert cake

Nut and Vanilla Cream Cake – a dessert that evokes the flavors of childhood, perfect for any occasion. This recipe, which I learned from my practical skills teacher, is a delicious combination of fluffy layers and a fine cream that will delight any sweet lover. If you are looking for a quick and simple dessert that is still impressive, you've come to the right place!

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 20
Tray size: 28x40 cm

Ingredients

Layer 1:
- 6 egg whites
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 6 egg yolks
- ½ packet of baking powder (approximately 5g)
- 6 tablespoons of flour

Layer 2:
- 6 egg whites
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 250 g ground walnuts
- ½ packet of baking powder (approximately 5g)
- 2 tablespoons of flour

Cream:
- 6 egg yolks (remaining from layer 2)
- 250 g powdered sugar
- 2-3 packets of vanilla
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 250 ml milk
- 2 packets of butter (approximately 400 g)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the layers

Layer 1
1. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with 6 tablespoons of sugar until you get a firm, glossy foam. This will give the layers an airy texture.
2. Add the egg yolks one at a time and gently fold in with a spatula, being careful not to lose the incorporated air.
3. Add the baking powder and sifted flour, gently mixing until combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper and greased with butter, leveling the surface well.
5. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 20-25 minutes. Check if it is baked with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the layer is ready!
6. Let the layer cool completely on a cooling rack.

Layer 2
1. Repeat the steps from layer 1 to beat the egg whites with sugar.
2. Once they have become foamy, add the ground walnuts, baking powder, and flour, mixing carefully.
3. Pour the mixture into the same tray, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
4. Bake at 180°C for 20-25 minutes, then let it cool.

Step 2: Preparing the cream

1. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with powdered sugar and vanilla until you get a smooth cream.
2. Add the flour and milk, continuously mixing to avoid lumps.
3. Cook the cream over steam or low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens. This method will ensure a fine and creamy cream.
4. Once the cream is ready, let it cool to room temperature. After it has cooled, beat the butter until creamy and incorporate it into the cooled cream.

Step 3: Assembling the cake

1. Take the yellow layer and spread half of the cocoa cream over it (mix 2 tablespoons of cocoa into the white cream).
2. Place the walnut layer on top, then spread the remaining yellow cream.
3. Grate chocolate on top for an elegant finish.
4. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.

Useful tips

- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for an even texture.
- You can use roasted walnuts for a more intense flavor. Lightly roast the walnuts in a dry pan before grinding them.
- If you want to add a twist, you can replace the cocoa in the cream with melted chocolate or add a bit of rum or almond essence to the vanilla cream.

Nutritional benefits

This cake is a good source of protein due to the eggs and nuts, which provide healthy fats and fiber. Obviously, it is a dessert and should be consumed in moderation, but it is worth the effort to prepare it because of its delicious taste and fine texture!

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use free-range eggs? Yes, free-range eggs are excellent for this recipe, as they have a richer flavor.
- How do I store the cake? Keep the cake covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.
- What other combinations can I try? You could add fresh fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries, between the layers or on top of the cream for a delicious contrast.

Serving

Serve this cake with flavored tea or strong coffee to balance the sweetness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream will also perfectly complement this dessert.

Enjoy this nut and vanilla cream cake, a recipe that will not only sweeten your days but also bring back the nostalgia of wonderful moments spent around the table with loved ones!

 Ingredients: Base 1: 6 egg whites, 6 tablespoons of sugar, 6 egg yolks, half a teaspoon of baking powder, 6 tablespoons of flour. Base 2: another 6 egg whites, 6 tablespoons of sugar, 250 grams of ground walnuts, half a teaspoon of baking powder, 2 tablespoons of flour. Cream: 6 egg yolks (left from Base 2), 250 grams of powdered sugar, 2 or 3 vanilla pods, 2 tablespoons of flour, 250 ml of milk, 2 packets of butter.

 Tags:  eggs nut unt sugar maria-elena cake cake layered cake walnut cake vanilla cream