Cake
Description
The recipe won't take much time. The "Leaf Fall" cake at home can't be called the simplest dessert, but its extraordinary design will surely impress family and guests. This cake is perfect for delighting an autumn birthday celebrant, whether an adult or a little child. The dessert is ready. Serve it at the table.
Instructions
- 1
Step 1
1. The recipe for the "Leaf Fall" cake begins with biscuit layers. The specified amount of ingredients is calculated for 2 layers. If you cannot bake both layers at the same time, divide the ingredients into two parts. First, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the yolks with powdered sugar, and the whites with a pinch of salt. When the whites turn into a firm foam, carefully fold them into the yolks and place the mixture over a water bath. Heat slightly, constantly whisking. Once the mixture begins to thicken, remove from heat and let cool. Sift flour together with starch and vanilla powder, then gradually add to the egg mixture. Stir gently to avoid deflating the batter. Pour into two pans and place into a preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. It's best to use a springform pan with a non-stick coating so that you don't need to grease it. Let the baked sponge cool thoroughly, then remove from the pan.
- 2
Step 2
2. The next step in preparation will be the meringue. To make it, beat 10 egg whites with a pinch of salt, gradually adding powdered sugar and about 30 grams of sifted flour. Transfer the prepared mixture into a pan (preferably the same one used for baking the cake layers), previously greased lightly with butter, and smooth it out. It's best to bake the meringue at a low temperature—about 100°C (212°F) for the first hour, then 50°C (122°F) for another 1.5 to 2 hours. If your oven's minimum temperature is higher, reduce the baking time accordingly.
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Step 3
3. To prepare the cream, combine 10 egg yolks with sugar and whisk. Heat the milk and gradually add it to the yolks, stirring constantly to prevent curdling. Warm over a water bath until thickened, then cool. Rub softened butter until creamy and mix it into the egg mixture. Pass the halva through a sieve and add it to the cream. Mix thoroughly.
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Step 4
4. To soak the sponge cake, you can prepare a syrup. Combine 11 tablespoons of sugar with 15 tablespoons of water and place over heat. Cook slightly until the sugar is completely dissolved, then add 3-4 tablespoons of brandy. Let the syrup cool and use it to moisten both cake layers. If desired, each layer can be sliced in half.
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Step 5
5. It's time to assemble the "Leaf Fall" cake at home. Spread the syrup-soaked cake layer with cream, then place a meringue layer on top. Spread again with cream and add the second cake layer. Coat the entire cake with cream, sprinkling the sides with crushed or whole peanuts.
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Step 6
6. Divide the remaining cream into several portions and mix with food colorings. Spread on top of the cake.
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Step 7
7. To decorate the cake, you can use leaves that have been previously washed and dried. Arrange them over the entire cake and generously dust with powdered sugar.
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Step 8
8. Carefully remove the leaves (you can use tweezers) and let the cake soak for 2-3 hours so it absorbs the liquid well.