Ciasto Pani Walewska: A Regal Dessert for Special Occasions

Ciasto Pani Walewska, often referred to as “The Countess’s Cake,” is a luxurious Polish dessert that combines layers of buttery shortcrust pastry, tart fruit preserves, fluffy meringue, and crunchy nuts. Named after the famous Maria Walewska, this cake exudes elegance and sophistication, making it perfect for festive gatherings or as a centerpiece for any celebration. With its unique blend of textures and flavors, it’s a treat that leaves a lasting impression.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

200g (1 ⅔ cups) all-purpose flour
100g (½ cup) unsalted butter, cold
50g (¼ cup) granulated sugar
2 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoons sour cream
For the Meringue:

4 large egg whites
200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Layers:

300g (1 ¼ cups) plum or blackcurrant preserves
100g (1 cup) chopped almonds or walnuts
Directions:

Prepare the Dough:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a rectangular baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine flour and baking powder. Add cold butter, cutting it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Mix in sugar, egg yolks, and sour cream until a smooth dough forms. Divide the dough into two equal portions.
Assemble the Base Layer:

Roll out one portion of the dough and press it into the prepared baking pan. Spread half of the fruit preserves evenly over the dough.
Make the Meringue:

In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks are achieved. Mix in vanilla extract.
Add Toppings and Bake:

Spread half of the meringue over the preserves. Sprinkle chopped nuts over the meringue.
Roll out the second portion of dough, place it on top, and repeat the process with preserves, meringue, and nuts.
Bake:

Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the meringue is golden and crisp. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing.
Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving: Serve Ciasto Pani Walewska chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.
Variations:

Different Jams: Experiment with apricot, raspberry, or cherry preserves for a new flavor profile.
Nut Substitutes: Use hazelnuts or pecans in place of almonds or walnuts for a unique crunch.
Chocolate Addition: Sprinkle chocolate chips between the layers for a touch of decadence.