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Wonderful Polish Cake Recipe

admin 4 min read

Polish Cream-Filled Cake (Light Dough, Rich Custard Cream)

Bring a taste of Poland to your kitchen with this classic cream-filled cake. It features two layers of light, airy dough paired with a smooth, buttery milk cream. Serve it for celebrations, holidays, or as a comforting dessert alongside your afternoon coffee or tea.

Wonderful Polish Cake Recipe

Preparation Details

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Bake Time: 40 minutes
  • Cooling/Chilling Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Servings: 8–10

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 1 ½ cups (150g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (100ml) water
  • ½ cup (100ml) milk
  • ⅓ cup (80g) butter
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt

For the Cream Filling

  • 2 cups (500ml) milk
  • ¾ cup (150g) sugar
  • 1 cup (100g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs
  • ¾ cup (180g) butter
  • Optional: a few drops vanilla extract

For Garnish

  • Icing sugar (powdered sugar), for dusting

Instructions

1) Make the Dough Layers

  1. Heat the liquids: Add milk, water, butter, and salt to a saucepan. Bring to a boil.
  2. Stir in dry ingredients: Once boiling, add the flour and baking powder. Stir quickly and firmly until the mixture becomes smooth, pulls away from the pan, and forms a ball.
  3. Cool slightly: Let the dough rest for a few minutes so it’s not piping hot.
  4. Add the eggs: Preheat the oven to 392°F (200°C). Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough looks glossy and smooth.
  5. Bake two layers:
    • Line a 10-inch (25 cm) pan with parchment paper.
    • Spread half the dough evenly in the pan.
    • Bake on the middle rack for 20 minutes (do not open the oven while baking).
    • Bake the second layer the same way.

2) Prepare the Cream Filling

  1. Whisk the base: In a bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, and flour until lump-free.
  2. Cook the cream: Warm the milk in a pot until it reaches a gentle boil. Slowly pour in the egg mixture while stirring constantly to keep it smooth.
  3. Thicken: Once it starts to boil, cook for about 3 minutes, stirring continuously. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  4. Finish with butter: Beat the butter until fluffy, then gradually mix in the cooled cream until silky. Add vanilla extract if using.

3) Assemble and Chill

  1. Layer: Place one baked dough layer on a serving plate. Spread the cream evenly over it.
  2. Top: Add the second dough layer.
  3. Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set. Dust with icing sugar right before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Polish cake tastes best chilled, paired with coffee, black tea, or a light herbal tea. It’s ideal for family get-togethers, festive tables, or an anytime sweet break.

Cooking Tips for Best Results

  • Cool the dough slightly before adding eggs to prevent the eggs from cooking in the mixture.
  • For a smooth, lump-free cream, keep stirring and add the egg mixture gradually to the hot milk.

Nutritional Note

This is a rich, traditional dessert. Enjoy it as an occasional treat as part of a balanced diet.

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Keep covered and chilled for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream and dough texture can change after thawing.

Why You’ll Love This Polish Cake

  • A satisfying contrast of light, airy layers and creamy filling
  • A balanced sweetness with a soft, comforting texture
  • A timeless Polish-style dessert to share with people you love

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I prepare the dough in advance?
    Fresh dough gives the best rise and texture, so it’s best made the same day.

  2. Which flour works best?
    Standard all-purpose flour is ideal for both the dough and the cream.

  3. Can I replace butter with margarine?
    Yes, but butter provides a deeper, richer flavor.

  4. How do I avoid lumps in the cream?
    Stir constantly and pour the egg mixture in slowly while the milk is hot.

  5. Can I add extra flavor to the cream?
    Yes—try vanilla, almond extract, or a small splash of rum.

  6. Can I make it gluten-free?
    You can use a gluten-free flour blend, though the final texture may be slightly different.

Conclusion

This Polish cream-filled cake is a beautiful, crowd-pleasing dessert with airy baked layers and a rich, buttery cream. Chill, dust with icing sugar, and enjoy a delicious slice of tradition—perfect for any occasion.