Lithuanian Rye Bread Torte (Duoninis Tortas)
A unique and rich dessert, this torte showcases the versatility of rye bread in Lithuanian cuisine. Layers of delicate, egg-rich cake are interspersed with a creamy filling and often a fruit preserve, creating a complex flavor profile with hints of spice and citrus. It's a celebratory cake, often reserved for special occasions, reflecting a tradition of using humble ingredients to create something extraordinary.
🧂 Ingredients
- 10 large Eggs(separated)
- 10 tablespoons Sugar
- 1 tsp Ground cloves
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp Nutmeg
- 10 tablespoons Dark rye breadcrumbs(dried and ground)
- as needed Milk(to cover breadcrumbs)
- 2 tablespoons Potato flour
- 0.5 tsp Baking powder
- 1 lb Butter(for filling)
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract(or 1 vanilla bean)
- 2 cups Powdered sugar(for filling)
- 0.75 cup Milk(for filling)
- 3 Egg yolks(for filling)
- 2 cups Lingonberries or fruit preserves(for filling)
- 1.5-3 fluid ounces Rum or brandy(optional, for soaking layers)
- as needed Fruit juice or compote(for soaking layers)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the cake layers: In a large bowl, beat the 10 egg yolks with 10 tablespoons of sugar until pale and creamy. Soak the 10 tablespoons of dark rye breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes. Add the soaked breadcrumbs to the yolk mixture along with ground cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, 2 tablespoons potato flour, and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder. Beat well.
💡 Tip: Ensure breadcrumbs are fully hydrated. - 2
In a separate clean bowl, beat the 10 egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk and breadcrumb mixture until just combined.
💡 Tip: Do not overmix, as this will deflate the egg whites. - 3
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch round cake or torte pan, and line the bottom with greased parchment paper. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- 4
Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- 5
Once cooled, carefully slice the cake into 3 even layers.
💡 Tip: A serrated knife works best for slicing cake layers. - 6
Prepare the filling: Cream 1 lb butter with 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or vanilla bean seeds) until light and fluffy. Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar, alternating with 3/4 cup milk, beating until smooth. Beat in 3 egg yolks one at a time.
- 7
Assemble the torte: Place the bottom cake layer on a serving plate. Sprinkle generously with fruit juice or compote (optionally mixed with rum or brandy). Spread with about 1/3 of the filling. Spread with 2 cups of cooked and sweetened lingonberries (or other fruit preserves).
💡 Tip: Don't oversaturate the cake layers with liquid. - 8
Place the second cake layer on top. Sprinkle with juice/brandy mixture, spread with another 1/3 of the filling, and then with lingonberries/preserves.
- 9
Top with the third cake layer. Sprinkle with juice/brandy mixture and spread the remaining filling over the top and sides of the cake. Decorate with maraschino cherries or candied fruit, if desired.
💡 Tip: Chill the cake for at least 2-3 hours (or preferably overnight) before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using very dark rye breadcrumbs is key for the authentic color and flavor.
- ✓The rum or brandy is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
- ✓Allow ample chilling time for the best texture and flavor.
🔄 Variations
- Use different fruit preserves like raspberry or cherry.
- Add a layer of whipped cream along with the fruit preserves.