Malakoff Torte
A rich and decadent Swiss cake, often made with layers of sponge cake or ladyfingers soaked in Kirschwasser, layered with a creamy vanilla or rum-flavored buttercream, and decorated with almonds.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 8-inch rounds Sponge cake layers(or ladyfingers)
- 300 g Butter(unsalted, softened)
- 250 g Powdered sugar(sifted)
- 4 large Egg yolks
- 2 tsp Vanilla extract
- 60 ml Kirschwasser(plus more for soaking)
- 100 g Sliced almonds(toasted, for decoration)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the buttercream: Cream the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in the sifted powdered sugar until well combined.
- 2
Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and Kirschwasser, until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
- 3
If using sponge cake layers, brush them generously with Kirschwasser. If using ladyfingers, arrange them in the base of your serving dish or cake mold.
- 4
Assemble the cake: Place one sponge cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of buttercream over it. If using ladyfingers, layer them and soak with Kirschwasser, then spread with buttercream.
- 5
Add the second sponge cake layer (or continue layering ladyfingers). Cover the entire cake with the remaining buttercream, ensuring all sides are coated.
- 6
Press the toasted sliced almonds onto the sides and top of the cake. Chill the Malakoff Torte in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to firm up.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using good quality Kirschwasser is essential for the authentic flavor.
- ✓Ensure butter is at room temperature for a smooth buttercream.
- ✓Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and crunch.
🔄 Variations
- Replace Kirschwasser with rum or a fruit liqueur.
- Add a layer of fruit preserves (like cherry or raspberry) between the cake layers.