Experience the opulence of Eastern European confectionery with this sublime reinterpretation of the classic Kiev Cake. Traditionally cherished for its nut-studded meringue layers and buttercream, this recipe introduces a lighter, yet equally indulgent twist by incorporating a cream cheese-based frosting that ensures each bite is moist, airy, and meltingly tender. The toasted nuts provide a delightful crunch, beautifully contrasting with the smooth, rich cream that envelops them.
Why You'll Love This: This Kiev Cake is a culinary masterpiece that marries the rustic charm of nutty meringue with the sophisticated creaminess of cheese frosting. It's perfect for those who prefer desserts that are not overwhelmingly sweet yet rich in flavor. The cake's texture is a harmonious blend of crunchy meringue and creamy filling, offering a satisfying complexity that makes each slice a memorable treat.
Perfect Occasion: The Kiev Cake is an ideal centerpiece for celebrations and festive gatherings, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion that calls for something uniquely exquisite. Its elegant appearance and luxurious taste make it a wonderful choice for holiday celebrations or as a special treat to elevate a weekend family dinner into a gala culinary event.
Decoration Tips: Adorn your Kiev Cake with a flourish by drizzling chocolate ganache over the top for a glossy finish. Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar to enhance its visual appeal. For a festive touch, edible gold leaf or silvered almonds can add a touch of glamour, making your cake not only delicious but a stunning work of art.
Cake Layers:
- Egg whites: 330g (approximately 9 eggs)
- Sugar: 200g
- Icing sugar: 150g
- Hazelnuts or cashews, toasted: 300g
- All-purpose flour: 45g
- Cornstarch: 45g
- A pinch of citric acid
- A pinch of salt
Cream Filling:
- Milk: 500ml
- Egg yolks: 4
- Sugar: 100g
- Cornstarch: 20g
- Butter: 60g
- Cream cheese: 400g
- Condensed milk: 200g
Chocolate Ganache Layer:
- Chocolate: 160g
- Heavy cream (33% fat): 130ml
Preparation Method:
- Cake Layers: Begin by aging the egg whites at room temperature for 24 hours in a sealed container. Preheat the oven to 140°C. Combine icing sugar, flour, cornstarch, and ground nuts. Whip the aged egg whites with citric acid and salt until soft peaks form, then gradually add sugar until stiff peaks develop. Gently fold in the dry ingredients. Spread the mixture into prepared pans and bake for 2 hours. Allow to cool in the oven.
- Cream Filling: In a thick-bottomed saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until pale. Gradually add hot milk, whisking continuously. Cook over medium heat until thick. Remove from heat, incorporate butter, cover with plastic wrap, and chill for 4-5 hours. Whip chilled cream cheese and condensed milk until smooth, then blend with the custard mixture.
- Chocolate Ganache: Heat chocolate and cream together, stirring until smooth. Chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes until thickened.
- Assembly: Layer the meringue discs with cream and ganache. Refrigerate overnight. Decorate as desired before serving.
Enjoy this luxurious Kiev Cake, a perfect blend of nutty crunch and creamy indulgence, sure to delight and impress on any occasion!