Ciasto Dakłas: A Delicious Polish Dessert

Ciasto Dakłas is a traditional Polish cake that is beloved for its light, fluffy texture and rich, creamy flavor. It combines layers of soft sponge cake with a velvety, custard-like filling and is often topped with a thin layer of chocolate or powdered sugar. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to festive celebrations. It’s a delightful treat that will impress your guests and satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

5 large eggs
1 cup (200 g) of granulated sugar
1 cup (120 g) of all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1/2 cup (120 ml) of milk
1/2 cup (120 g) of unsalted butter, melted
1 cup (240 ml) of heavy cream
1 tablespoon of powdered sugar (for the cream)
2 tablespoons of cocoa powder (optional, for the chocolate layer)
1/2 cup (120 ml) of dark chocolate (for the topping)
Pinch of salt
Directions:

Prepare the Sponge Cake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a baking pan (preferably 9×9 inches) with parchment paper. Separate the egg whites from the yolks. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until pale and fluffy. Gently fold in the flour and vanilla extract, then slowly add the melted butter and milk. Carefully combine this mixture with the beaten egg whites, folding gently to avoid deflating the batter.

Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before removing it from the pan.

Prepare the Cream Filling: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Once the cake is cooled, carefully slice it into two equal layers. Spread the whipped cream over the first layer, then place the second layer on top, gently pressing down.

Prepare the Chocolate Topping: Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. Once melted, pour the chocolate over the top layer of the cake and smooth it with a spatula. Let the chocolate set at room temperature or chill it in the fridge for faster results.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving: Once the chocolate topping has hardened, slice the Ciasto Dakłas into squares or rectangles for serving. Serve chilled for the best texture.
Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can freeze it for up to one month. Just be sure to let it thaw before serving.