Decadent Karpatka Cake: A Slice of Pure Comfort

This Karpatka Cake is a delightful dessert featuring rich custard and flaky pastry, perfect for any occasion.

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Course: Dessert

Cuisine: European

Keyword: Baking, Custard, dessert, easy recipes, Karpatka Cake, Pastry

Prep Time: 30

Cook Time: 25

Refrigeration Time: 1

Total Time: 1 55

Servings: slices

Calories: 320kcal

Equipment

medium saucepan
Parchment-lined baking sheets
Wooden spoon or electric mixer
Serving Platter

Ingredients

For the Pastry

1 cup water ensures the pastry puffs up perfectly during baking
½ cup unsalted butter adds richness and flavor to the pastry layers
1 cup all-purpose flour forms the base for a light, flaky texture
4 large eggs provides structure and moisture

For the Custard Filling

2 cups whole milk makes for a creamy, rich custard
¼ cup cornstarch thickens the custard to the perfect consistency
½ cup granulated sugar balances the flavors and adds sweetness
2 teaspoons vanilla extract infuses the filling with delightful aroma
¼ teaspoon salt enhances sweetness and rounds out flavor

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and ½ cup of unsalted butter. Bring to a rolling boil over medium heat, watching as the butter melts completely. Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of all-purpose flour until smooth.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly for about 5 minutes and incorporate 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition until perfectly smooth and elastic.
Divide the batter evenly and spread each half into a rectangle on parchment-lined baking sheets.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pastry layers for 20–25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
In a separate saucepan, whisk together 2 cups of whole milk, ¼ cup of cornstarch, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Cook over medium heat until thick and bubbling, about 5-7 minutes.
Once the custard thickens, let it cool slightly for about 10 minutes. Place one pastry layer on a serving platter and spread the warm custard evenly on top.
Carefully place the second layer of pastry on top of the custard and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

To enhance the texture, chill your custard before spreading. Aim for even layers while baking, and watch closely to prevent burning. Letting the assembled cake chill improves flavor and texture.

Nutrition