This exquisite layer cake combines delicate peach-infused cream with a tender base and crispy almond topping, creating an impressive dessert perfect for New Year celebrations or special occasions. The harmonious blend of textures and flavors makes this cake a standout choice for those seeking a sophisticated yet approachable dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cake Base:
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 100g (½ cup) granulated sugar
- 8g (2 teaspoons) vanilla sugar
- 50ml (3½ tablespoons) sunflower oil
- 50g (3½ tablespoons) butter, melted
- 340g (2¾ cups) type 00 flour or all-purpose flour
- 10g (2½ teaspoons) baking powder
For the Cream Filling:
- 400ml (1⅔ cups) whole milk
- 10g (2½ teaspoons) vanilla sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 45g (3 tablespoons) granulated sugar
- 32g (4 tablespoons) corn starch
- 200ml (¾ cup + 2 tablespoons) heavy whipping cream
- 200g (7 oz) canned peaches in syrup, drained and diced
For Decoration:
- 100g (1 cup) sliced almonds
- 30g (¼ cup) powdered sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
Base Preparation:
- Beat eggs, sugar, and vanilla sugar until pale and fluffy (5-7 minutes)
- Stream in sunflower oil and melted butter while mixing
- Sift flour and baking powder together in a separate bowl
- Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined
- Press dough into a 24cm (9½-inch) springform pan
- Create slightly raised edges around the perimeter
- Freeze for 20 minutes
Cream Filling:
- Heat milk and vanilla sugar until just below boiling
- Whisk egg yolk, sugar, and cornstarch in a separate bowl
- Slowly incorporate hot milk into egg mixture, whisking constantly
- Return mixture to saucepan and cook until thickened
- Cool completely
- Whip cream to stiff peaks
- Fold whipped cream into cooled custard
- Gently incorporate diced peaches
Assembly and Baking:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) with fan function
- Pour cream filling over chilled base
- Sprinkle generously with sliced almonds
- Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown
- Cool completely before removing from pan
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving
Nutritional Information (per slice, serves 12)
- Calories: 385
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Protein: 7g
- Sugar: 28g
Time Requirements:
- Preparation: 45 minutes
- Chilling: 20 minutes
- Baking: 25 minutes
- Cooling: 2 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Professional Tips
The success of this cake lies in proper temperature control and technique. Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for optimal incorporation. The brief freezing period for the base is crucial for structural integrity during baking. When folding the whipped cream into the custard, use gentle, deliberate movements to maintain aeration.
Variations and Substitutions
- Replace peaches with other canned fruits like apricots or pears
- Substitute vanilla sugar with vanilla extract and additional sugar
- Use hazelnuts or pecans instead of almonds
- Add a touch of almond extract to enhance the nutty flavor
- Consider using mascarpone cheese in place of some whipped cream for added richness
Common FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?
A: Fresh peaches can be used but may release more liquid. Consider cooking them briefly with sugar first.
Q: Why is my filling not setting properly?
A: Ensure the custard is sufficiently thickened before cooling and that the cream is whipped to stiff peaks.
Q: Can this cake be made in advance?
A: Yes, prepare up to 24 hours ahead, but add the almond topping just before baking.
Q: How do I know when the cake is properly baked?
A: The top should be golden brown and the filling should be set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The almond topping is crispiest on the first day. For best results, bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. The base can be prepared and frozen for up to one month, wrapped well in plastic wrap. Thaw completely before adding filling and baking.
This elegant dessert is perfect for New Year celebrations, combining sophisticated flavors with achievable preparation methods, making it an ideal choice for both experienced bakers and those seeking to create an impressive holiday centerpiece.
