Plum Torte with Cottage Cheese Layers

This delightful plum torte offers layers of flavor and texture, perfect for a decadent dessert. Combining a light sponge cake with a creamy cottage cheese layer and a refreshing plum puree, this dish is a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy. The use of gelatin ensures a firm structure, making this cake both visually appealing and easy to serve. The unadulterated plum puree brings a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish, while the cottage cheese layer adds a rich yet mellow contrast. Each layer is crafted meticulously, with the sponge cake providing a delicate base. The addition of a gelatin glaze not only adds sheen but locks in the flavors. This cake can be adjusted for sweetness to suit personal tastes and can even be decorated with plum slices for added flair. Whether served at a special occasion or enjoyed with family, this torte is a true delight. The process of making it is straightforward, ensuring that even novice bakers can achieve great results. The final product is both beautiful and delicious, making it a star on any dessert table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 eggs
2 x 180 g cottage cheese
300 g sugar
3 tbsp flour
3 tbsp gelatin
500 g unsweetened plum puree (see Plum Puree for preparation)
Water

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

**Prepare the Sponge Cake:** Separate the eggs, beating the egg whites to stiff peaks. In another bowl, whisk the yolks with 3 tbsp of sugar until creamy. Gently fold in the flour and the whipped egg whites.
**Bake the Base:** Pour the batter into a round cake mold with removable sides and bake until the sponge turns light brown. Let it cool completely.
**Gelatin Preparation:** Bloom the gelatin for each layer separately. Use 1 tbsp of gelatin with 100 g of water for the first layer and 2 tbsp with 200 g of water for the second.
**Make the Cottage Cheese Layer:** Mix the cottage cheese with 100 g of sugar and the bloomed and melted 1 tbsp of gelatin. Blend until smooth and pour over the cooled sponge. Chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to set.
**Prepare the Plum Layer:** Combine the plum puree with the remaining sugar, adjusting for sweetness. Add the second batch of melted gelatin, and gently pour over the cottage cheese layer. Chill until completely set.
**Finalize and Serve:** Carefully remove the sides of the mold before serving. The layers should appear distinct and striking.

Tips

Decorating: The three layers provide a beautiful presentation; additional decoration is not necessary.
Troubleshooting: If the cottage cheese layer hasn't set, it may create an unexpected design when adding the plum layer. Ensure gelatin is correctly prepared to avoid this.
Baked Sponge: For best results, use a freshly baked sponge; store-bought versions might not hold up as well.

Variations

Sweetness: Adjust the sugar levels according to your preference.
Dietary Needs: Substitute cottage cheese with a lactose-free version for those with dietary restrictions.
Fruity Layer: Replace plum puree with any berry puree such as raspberry or blueberry for a different twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an added touch.
Garnish with fresh plum slices for a decorative and flavorful enhancement.
Serve with a cup of aromatic tea or coffee to balance the dessert's sweetness.

Best Places

Café Tomaselli - A storied café known for its traditional pastries and elegant setting. Location: Alter Markt 9, Salzburg, Austria.
Demel - Famous for its delightful desserts and historic ambiance. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
Angelina - A chic patisserie celebrated for its Mont Blanc and hot chocolate. Location: 226 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
Café Central Vienna - Renowned for its literary history and classic Viennese pastries. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
Caffè Florian - Iconic coffee house on St. Mark's Square, known for its lavish décor and sweet offerings. Location: Piazza San Marco, 57, Venice, Italy.
Pâtisserie Sadaharu AOKI - Innovative fusion of Japanese and French flavors in desserts. Location: 35 Rue de Vaugirard, Paris, France.
Katz’s Delicatessen - New York deli famed for its generous sandwiches and rich desserts. Location: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY, USA.
Tiffany Blue Box Cafe - Offers an exquisite dining experience in luxury surroundings. Location: 727 5th Ave, New York, NY, USA.
The Wolseley - London café offering elegant brunches and quintessentially British teas. Location: 160 Piccadilly, London, UK.
Conditorei Schober - Swiss café known for its delicious cakes and charming setting. Location: Napfgasse 4, Zurich, Switzerland.