Torte Napoleona Recipe

The Torte Napoleona is a delicious and layered dessert that's perfect for special occasions. With its flaky and buttery layers combined with a smooth cream filling, this cake is truly a delight. Each bite offers a mix of textures and flavors that are hard to resist. It requires some time and patience to prepare, but the outcome is well worth the effort. The pastry sheets are filled with a rich custard and whipped cream, which you can customize with your favorite berry fillings. This recipe includes easy-to-follow instructions and helpful tips to ensure your creation is perfect. If you're looking to impress your guests or simply indulge in a delightful home-baked treat, the Torte Napoleona is an ideal choice. Serve it to savor the balance of creamy and crunchy. Follow the detailed steps and enjoy the process of making this classic treat. Here's how you can create this wonderful dessert in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 5 cups flour (1 cup equals 200 ml)
• 500 g butter
• 1 cup water with a hint of vinegar (just slightly sour)
• A pinch of salt

For the Cream

• 0.5 l milk
• 4 egg yolks
• 100 g sugar (½ cup)
• 1 tsp vanilla sugar
• 60 g flour (½ cup or 3 tbsp)
• 70 g butter
• 1 cup whipped cream

Filling

• Blended lingonberries with sugar

Preparation Time

• Total: 230 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Dough Base: Sift the flour onto a silicone mat, parchment paper, or a wide bowl.
2. Grate cold butter into the flour, mixing lightly with the flour as you go.
3. Create a well in the center of the mixture and gradually add the vinegar water, using just enough to form a homogeneous dough.
4. Knead quickly, then divide the dough into 5 parts. Place them in the refrigerator to chill.
5. Prepare the Cream Filling: In a saucepan, bring milk to a boil.
6. In a bowl, mix egg yolks with sugar and vanilla sugar until the sugar is dissolved. Add flour and stir until smooth.
7. Once the milk starts to bubble, remove it from heat. Slowly pour it into the egg mixture, stirring constantly.
8. Return the mixture to the saucepan. Heat gently, stirring continuously until thickened. Cook for a few more minutes once thickened.
9. Add butter to the hot cream and mix thoroughly. Cover with plastic wrap and let cool.
10. Fold in whipped cream into the cooled mixture for a smooth finish.
11. The delicious filling for your torte is ready!
12. Bake the Layers: Roll out the chilled dough into sheets slightly larger than your desired torte diameter.
13. Prick with a fork and bake in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius until golden brown.
14. Once baked, trim to your desired size, reserving crumbs for decoration.
15. Assemble the Torte: Start by spreading a layer of cream on the first pastry layer.
16. Add berry jam and cream on the second layer. Continue with cream on the third, fourth, and fifth layers.
17. Feel free to add berries or additional cream as desired.
18. Decorate with crumbled pastry pieces or use cream and berries creatively.
19. Let the torte set in the fridge before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
20. Enjoy your beautifully layered Torte Napoleona!

Tips

• For best results, chill the dough thoroughly before rolling.
• To prevent cracking, ensure the pastry layers are well-pricked with a fork before baking.
• Substitution options: Use strawberries or raspberries instead of lingonberries for a sweeter flavor.

Nutrition

• Calories: 520 per serving
• Protein: 7g
• Fats: 36g
• Carbs: 45g

Variations

• Use almond flour for a gluten-free version.
• Opt for a dairy-free cream alternative for those with lactose intolerance.
• Substitute coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with fresh berries or berry sauce for added sweetness and color.
• Serve with a dollop of unsweetened whipped cream for a classic touch.
• Accompany with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Best Places

• Café Pushkin - A luxurious spot offering traditional Napoleona with a Russian twist. Location: 26a Tverskoy Blvd, Moscow, Russia.
• Café Central - Famous for its elegant pastries and rich history. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Laduree Paris - Renowned for its delicate pastries and charming atmosphere. Location: 75 Av. des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
• Pasticceria Marchesi - Chic café with an array of exquisite desserts. Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta, 11/a, Milan, Italy.
• Balthazar Bakery - Offers delightful French pastries in a vibrant setting. Location: 80 Spring St, New York, USA.
• Dalloyau - Known for its gourmet creations and elegant presentation. Location: 101 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Paris, France.
• Demel - A historical café with a rich selection of gourmet pastries. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Café de la Paix - Offers a refined ambiance with excellent French pastries. Location: 5 Place de l'Opéra, Paris, France.
• Escribà - Legendary bakery with creative and skillfully crafted pastries. Location: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 546, Barcelona, Spain.
• Conditorei Schober - A charming spot for indulgent treats and delicate pastries. Location: Napfgasse 4, Zurich, Switzerland.