Prinsesstårta, or Princess Cake, is a traditional Swedish cake that is beloved for its light and airy texture, as well as its beautiful presentation. This elegant dessert consists of layers of sponge cake, pastry cream, raspberry jam, and a thick dome of whipped cream, all covered with a layer of marzipan. It is often decorated with a pink marzipan rose and powdered sugar. Here’s a traditional recipe to help you make Swedish Prinsesstårta at home.
Ingredients:
- For the Sponge Cake:
- 4 large eggs
- 120 g (1/2 cup) sugar
- 120 g (1 cup) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- For the Pastry Cream:
- 500 ml (2 cups) whole milk
- 1 vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 egg yolks
- 100 g (1/2 cup) sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons butter
- For the Filling:
- 200 g (7 oz) raspberry jam
- 600 ml (2 1/2 cups) heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- For the Marzipan Covering:
- 400 g (14 oz) marzipan
- Green food coloring (optional)
- Pink food coloring (for the rose)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sponge Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Sift the flour and baking powder together, then gently fold into the egg mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before slicing it into three even layers.
- Prepare the Pastry Cream:
- In a saucepan, heat the milk and vanilla bean (if using) until just simmering. Remove from heat and let it steep for 10 minutes. If using vanilla extract, add it after heating the milk.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Return the mixture to the saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cream thickens and comes to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the butter.
- Let the pastry cream cool completely before using.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place the bottom layer of the sponge cake on a serving platter. Spread a thin layer of raspberry jam over the cake, then spread half of the pastry cream on top.
- Place the second layer of cake over the cream. Spread the remaining pastry cream over the second layer.
- Place the third layer of cake on top. Whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until it forms stiff peaks. Spread the whipped cream over the top and sides of the cake, forming a dome shape.
- Cover with Marzipan:
- Knead the marzipan with green food coloring until evenly colored. Dust a surface with powdered sugar and roll out the marzipan into a large circle big enough to cover the entire cake.
- Carefully drape the marzipan over the cake, smoothing it down the sides and trimming any excess at the bottom.
- Roll out a small piece of pink-colored marzipan and shape it into a rose for decoration. Place the rose on top of the cake.
- Finish and Serve:
- Dust the finished cake with powdered sugar. Allow the cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
- Slice and serve the Prinsesstårta with a cup of coffee or tea.
Tips for Perfect Prinsesstårta:
- Even Layers: Make sure to slice the sponge cake into even layers for a balanced look and taste.
- Chilling Time: Allow the assembled cake to chill adequately to set the whipped cream and marzipan.
- Smooth Marzipan: Roll the marzipan out evenly to avoid any cracks or tears when covering the cake.
Cultural Significance:
Prinsesstårta is a beloved cake in Sweden, often served during birthdays, celebrations, and special occasions. Its beautiful presentation and delicious layers make it a favorite among both children and adults.
Making Swedish Prinsesstårta at home allows you to enjoy a classic and elegant dessert that’s perfect for any celebration. This princess cake, with its layers of sponge cake, pastry cream, raspberry jam, and whipped cream, all covered in marzipan, is sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this traditional recipe will bring a taste of Sweden to your kitchen.