Krema and Zefira Torte

This delightful dessert combines an enticing blend of creamy layers and marshmallow-like decorations, making it a true indulgence for the senses. The torte starts with a dough crafted from sour cream, flour, and a pinch of salt, which is then rolled into thin sheets that bake to a light golden brown. Each layer is covered with a rich cream made from butter, powdered sugar, and eggs, infused with aromatic vanilla. The finished cake is adorned with crumbled dough and decorative marshmallow halves for a playful touch. Despite its sophisticated appearance, the preparation is straightforward and requires only a few staple ingredients. The result is a delicate balance of textures and flavors, from the soft, melt-in-your-mouth cream to the slightly crisp layers. This torte is perfect for special occasions or as a show-stopping centerpiece for afternoon tea. The addition of zefirs, or marshmallow-like sugar confections, provides a satisfying sugary finish to each bite. With some preparation and care, even home bakers can achieve a bakery-quality torte.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups sour cream (30%)
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt

Cream

• 500 g butter
• 2.5 cups powdered sugar
• 4 eggs
• Vanilla

Decoration

• Zefirs (marshmallow-like confections)

Preparation Time

• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 1 hour
  • Baking Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour with a pinch of salt. Gradually mix in the sour cream until a thick dough forms.
2. Chill the Dough: Knead the dough until smooth and rollable, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
3. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to a moderate temperature, around 350°F (180°C).
4. Form the Layers: Divide the dough into 14 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle.
5. Bake the Layers: Place the circles on a baking sheet and bake until light golden brown, about 8-10 minutes per batch. Allow them to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Cream: Cream the butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.
7. Layer the Torte: Place one baked layer on a serving plate, spread a generous amount of cream over it. Repeat with remaining layers, pressing gently to adhere.
8. Even Out the Edges: Once all layers are assembled, use a knife to trim the edges for a uniform appearance.
9. Decorate the Torte: Crumble the trimmings and sprinkle over the top of the torte. Arrange zefir halves along the sides for decoration.
10. Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the torte for at least 1 hour to set and merge the flavors.

Tips

• Substitutions: For a lighter cream, substitute some of the butter with cream cheese.
• Make Ahead: Dough can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
• Serving Temperature: Best served slightly chilled.

Nutrition

• Calories: Roughly 450 per slice
• Protein: 5g
• Fats: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 40g

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour mix instead of wheat flour.
• Nut Topping: Add chopped nuts on top for an extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Coffee: Enhances the cake's sweetness.
• Fresh Berries: A refreshing side that complements the creamy taste.

Best Places

• Cafe Pushkin - Known for traditional Russian confections. Location: Tverskoy Blvd, Moscow, Russia.
• Demel - Famous for its pastries and cakes. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Caffe Florian - A historic cafe offering elegant desserts. Location: Piazza San Marco, Venice, Italy.
• Ladurée - Offers exquisite pastries and macarons. Location: 75 Av. des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
• Conditorei Schober - Renowned for sweet treats and coffee. Location: Napfgasse 4, Zürich, Switzerland.
• Angelina - Known for its traditional hot chocolate and pastries. Location: Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
• Café Central - Offers a historical ambiance with its desserts. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Dalloyau - Offers luxurious confections and pastries. Location: Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Paris, France.
• El gateau - Celebrated for its artistic cakes and pastries. Location: Madison Ave, New York, USA.
• Konditorei Zauner - Famous for a wide variety of Austrian desserts. Location: Pfarrgasse 7, Bad Ischl, Austria.