Condensed Milk Layer Cake with Fresh Cheese Cream and Jam Filling

This delightful layered cake combines the rich taste of condensed milk with the smoothness of fresh cheese cream and the fruity touch of jam. It is a splendid dessert option that takes only an hour to prepare but impresses with its sophisticated taste and texture. The cake is made by alternating thin layers of sponge cake with creamy cheese icing and your favorite jam. The layers absorb the flavors, creating a moist and flavorful treat. It's perfect for special occasions, and the cake's appearance can be customized with decorative toppings to suit any theme. The balance of sweetness from the condensed milk and refreshing cream cheese gives the cake a unique profile that isn’t too overwhelming. This cake can be refrigerated and left to set overnight, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. It pairs well with a warm beverage and serves as an exquisite finale to any dinner party. With a few ingredient substitutions, this cake can easily become a versatile favorite in any baker's repertoire.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

400 g condensed milk (1 can)
1 cup flour
1 tsp baking soda or 1.5 tsp baking powder
2 eggs

Filling

0.5 liters sour cream (25% or 30%)
1/2 cup sugar
2 tbsp honey
200 g fresh cheese (up to 400 g if desired)
Jam of your choice

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Start by preparing the batter. Mix the eggs with the condensed milk in a bowl.
Gradually add the flour and baking soda (or baking powder), stirring until you achieve a smooth batter with no lumps.
If desired, add a pinch of salt for balance.
Select a baking tin, either a small rectangular one or a round 22-24 cm in diameter for circular layers.
Line the baking tin with parchment paper, and spread approximately 3 tablespoons of batter evenly in a thin layer.
Bake the sponge layer in a preheated oven at 180-200°C (356-392°F) for 5-7 minutes until it puffs up and turns golden brown.
Repeat the previous steps until all the batter is used up, creating multiple layers.
Next, prepare the cheese cream by whipping the sour cream with sugar and optionally honey until the mixture increases in volume and becomes fluffy.
If the cream isn't thickening, add 1 teaspoon of bloomed gelatin and whip again.
Add chunks of fresh cheese to the whipped cream, stirring slowly until it's fully incorporated into a creamy texture.
Start assembling the cake by spreading cheese cream and a layer of jam between each cooled sponge cake layer.
Choose jam flavors based on your preferences or availability, ensuring each layer is evenly spread.
Finish by coating the entire cake with the remaining fresh cheese cream, smoothing it out for a clean look.
Decorate the cake as desired with fruit slices, chocolate shavings, or nuts.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 12 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to set.
Serve slices and enjoy your homemade layered cake creation.

Tips

Feel free to use low-fat sour cream for a lighter version of the cake.
Add a drop of vanilla extract to the cream for added flavor complexity.
Experiment with different types of jams, such as raspberry or apricot, for unique taste variations.

Variations

Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free alternative.
Replace honey with agave syrup for a vegan-friendly cake.
Consider using coconut cream instead of sour cream for a dairy-free option.

Serving Suggestions

This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea.
Garnish with fresh berries for a touch of elegance and added flavor.
Drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for a decadent finish.

Best Places

Patisserie Valerie - A historic café known for its cakes and pastries. Location: 44 Old Compton St, London, UK.
Café Sacher Vienna - Famous for the original Sacher-Torte. Location: Philharmoniker Str. 4, Vienna, Austria.
Magnolia Bakery - Renowned for its banana pudding and cakes. Location: 401 Bleecker St, New York City, USA.
Ladurée Paris Champs Elysées - Known for its luxurious macarons and pastries. Location: 75 Av. des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
Demel - Celebrated for its Viennese coffee and cakes. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
Conditorei Schober - Offers delicious Swiss pastries and cakes. Location: Napfgasse 4, Zurich, Switzerland.
Cova Montenapoleone - Traditional Italian patisserie with classic cakes. Location: Via Monte Napoleone, 8, Milan, Italy.
Antico Caffè Greco - One of the oldest cafés in Rome known for its desserts. Location: Via dei Condotti, 86, Rome, Italy.
Fauchon - Known for fine pastries and gourmet products. Location: 30 Place de la Madeleine, Paris, France.
Bettys Café Tea Rooms - A classic English tea room offering traditional cakes. Location: 1 Parliament St, Harrogate, UK.