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Russian Napoleon Cake

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Russian Napoleon Cake, a traditional and indulgent dessert, features delicate, crispy puff pastry layers filled with a rich, velvety custard. Perfect for any special occasion, this classic Russian treat combines a satisfying contrast between the flaky pastry and smooth cream. It’s easy to make, though it requires patience for the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled for a truly irresistible, crowd-pleasing dessert.

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

  • 1/2 cup cold water

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Filling:

  • 2 cups whole milk

  • 4 large egg yolks

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

For the Decoration:

  • 1/2 cup finely crumbled puff pastry (for sprinkling on top)

Instructions

  • Preparing the Puff Pastry:

    • In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

    • Gradually add cold water, stirring until the dough forms. Wrap and chill for 1 hour.

  • Rolling and Baking the Pastry:

    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Divide dough into 8 portions and roll each into a thin rectangle.

    • Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden and crisp. Cool on a wire rack, crumble one sheet for decoration.

  • Making the Cream Filling:

    • Heat milk in a saucepan. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch.

    • Gradually pour hot milk into egg mixture, then cook back in saucepan until thickened (5-7 minutes). Stir in vanilla, butter, and heavy cream. Cool.

  • Assembling the Cake:

    • Layer puff pastry and cream filling, starting with a pastry sheet on a platter, topped with cream. Repeat and finish with cream on top.

    • Sprinkle with crumbled pastry and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Notes

  • For a zesty twist, add lemon or orange zest to the cream.

  • Chocolate ganache or chopped nuts like hazelnuts can be added for extra decadence.

Find it online: https://avarecipe.com/russian-napoleon-cake/