Napoleon cake is a true classic, known for its flaky layers, rich cream, and delicate sweetness. Originating in the 19th century, this cake has become a beloved treat around the world.
The balance of crispy, buttery layers and smooth cream creates a dessert that’s both indulgent and light. Whether you’re looking to try a slice at a local bakery or make one from scratch, here’s all you need to know about Napoleon cake, Lykkers.
What Makes Napoleon Cake Special?
Napoleon cake is made up of multiple layers of thin, flaky pastry with rich, custard-like cream spread between each layer. After being assembled, the cake is often chilled to allow the layers to soften slightly, creating a unique texture that’s somewhere between crunchy and creamy. The top is usually sprinkled with crumbs from the pastry layers, giving it a rustic, homemade look that adds to its charm.
Simple Napoleon Cake Recipe
Making Napoleon cake at home takes a bit of time but is surprisingly simple. Here’s a quick recipe to help you recreate this classic dessert.
Ingredients for the Cake:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 large egg
½ cup cold water
A pinch of salt
Ingredients for the Cream Filling:
4 cups milk
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter pieces and mix until the mixture resembles crumbs. Add the egg and water, mixing until a dough forms. Chill the dough for about an hour.
2. Prepare the Layers: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled dough into thin circles, about the size of a dinner plate. Prick each layer with a fork to prevent puffing, then bake each layer for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
3. Make the Cream: In a saucepan, heat the milk until warm. In a bowl, whisk the sugar, eggs, flour, and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly add the warm milk, stirring constantly. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and softened butter until smooth.
4. Assemble the Cake: Layer the baked pastry rounds with a generous layer of cream between each. Cover the top and sides with more cream, then sprinkle with crumbs made from one of the baked layers. Chill the cake for several hours or overnight for the best texture.
Napoleon Cake Recipe | Russian Torte Napoleon
Video by The Cooking Foodie
Where to Find the Best Napoleon Cake
If you’re not in the mood for baking, many bakeries specialize in Napoleon cake.
Here are a few places where you can find top-quality slices:
1. Café Pushkin – This Moscow-based café is famous for its classic desserts, including a beautifully made Napoleon cake. Prices here range from $5 to $7 per slice, making it a great spot for Lykkers to try the traditional version of this cake.
2. Tea Room – Located in New York City, the Tea Room offers a delightful slice of Napoleon cake that stays true to its roots. Expect to pay around $8 per slice, but the experience is well worth it for the authentic taste and atmosphere.
3. Pâtisserie Napoleon – With several locations in major cities, Pâtisserie Napoleon offers a modern take on Napoleon cake, often adding unique flavors like caramel or chocolate. Prices are around $6 per slice, making it a nice place to try different variations.
Napoleon Cake Food Tours
In larger cities with a significant Eastern European community, you might even find food tours that include stops for Napoleon cake and other traditional sweets. These tours are typically priced around $50-$80 per person and offer an opportunity to explore a range of desserts while learning about their history. It’s a fun way for Lykkers to taste different styles of Napoleon cake and get a feel for the unique flavors.
Tips for Enjoying Napoleon Cake
Let it Chill: Napoleon cake is best enjoyed after it’s been chilled for several hours. This allows the cream to blend with the layers, creating a perfect balance of textures.
Pair with Tea: A cup of tea or a light, herbal infusion complements the richness of Napoleon cake without overpowering it. This pairing brings out the flavors in the cream and pastry.
Try Variations: While traditional Napoleon cake is delicious, some bakeries offer creative twists, like adding fresh berries, caramel, or even chocolate layers. For a unique experience, try a different version next time.
In summary
Napoleon cake brings a taste of a history and classic pastry-making techniques to the table.
Whether you’re trying a slice from a bakery or making it yourself, it’s a dessert that offers a wonderful combination of flavors and textures. It’s easy to see why this cake has remained a favorite for generations!
