There are few desserts as indulgent and satisfying as a rich, multi-layered cake that combines textures and flavors in every bite. This Chocolate Meringue Cake with Cream and Walnuts is the perfect example of the kind of treat that’s both elegant and utterly delicious. With a soft, chocolatey base, a crisp meringue layer, and a creamy, velvety filling, this cake is perfect for special occasions or just when you want to treat yourself and loved ones to something truly indulgent.
The beauty of this dessert lies not only in its rich flavor but also in its layers, which create a beautiful contrast of textures: the tender chocolate cake, the crunchy walnut-topped meringue, and the luscious cream filling. Each component comes together to form a harmonious and delightful treat that is hard to resist.
Whether you’re planning to serve this cake for a birthday, holiday, or any celebration, it’s a showstopper that will impress everyone at the table. Despite its complexity, it’s surprisingly easy to make when you break down the steps, and once you’ve made it a few times, it becomes second nature. The balance between chocolate and cream, the crunch of walnuts, and the softness of the meringue will have your taste buds dancing.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 100g (1/2 cup) sugar
- 30g (2 tbsp) vegetable oil
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 80g (1/2 cup) flour
- 20g (1.5 tbsp) cocoa powder
- Baking tin: 18×28 cm
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 25 minutes
For the Meringue Layer:
- 4 egg whites
- 200g (1 cup) sugar
- A pinch of citric acid
- 200g roasted walnuts
- Bake at 120°C (248°F) for about 60 minutes
For the Cream:
- 100g (1/2 cup) sugar
- 100g (1/2 cup) hot cream (33% fat)
- 35g (1.5 tbsp) butter
- 200g (1 cup) cream (33% fat)
- 600g (1 cup) cream cheese
- 30g chocolate (for garnish)
- Let stand in the refrigerator for 4 hours
Steps How to Make It
1. Preparing the Chocolate Cake Base:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease and line your 18×28 cm baking tin with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 3 eggs and a pinch of salt. Add the sugar and beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vegetable oil and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder together to remove any lumps. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, gently folding them in until fully incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin and smooth it out. Bake for approximately 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool completely.
2. Making the Meringue Layer:
- Preheat the oven to 120°C (248°F).
- In a clean, dry bowl, beat the 4 egg whites using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, beating continuously until stiff peaks form.
- Add a pinch of citric acid to help stabilize the meringue.
- Once the meringue is stiff and glossy, spread it evenly over the cooled cake base. Sprinkle the roasted walnuts on top.
- Bake for about 60 minutes or until the meringue is firm and golden. Allow the meringue to cool completely after baking.
3. Preparing the Cream Filling:
- In a saucepan, heat 100g of hot cream and 35g of butter together over low heat until the butter melts. Stir in the sugar until it dissolves completely.
- Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, beat the remaining 200g of cream and 600g of cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Once the butter and cream mixture has cooled, add it to the cream cheese mixture and beat until combined.
- Spread the cream filling evenly over the cooled meringue layer.
- Melt 30g of chocolate in a microwave or using a double boiler. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cream layer for decoration.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours to allow the cream to firm up and the flavors to meld together.
4. Assembling and Serving:
- After the cake has chilled, slice it into squares or rectangles.
- Serve chilled, garnished with extra walnuts or chocolate shavings if desired.
- Enjoy every bite of this rich, decadent dessert!
Prep Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (for both layers)
- Chilling Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 6 hours 10 minutes (including cooling and refrigeration time)
KCAL & Servings
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 300-350 kcal (depending on portion size)
- Servings: 12-16 servings
Explanation of the Recipe: Why It’s Timeless
What makes this Chocolate Meringue Cake with Cream and Walnuts timeless is its ability to bring together rich flavors, textures, and nostalgia. The combination of chocolate, meringue, walnuts, and creamy filling is a flavor profile that has stood the test of time, delighting taste buds for generations. This cake has all the elements of a perfect dessert: the crunch of walnuts, the softness of the cake, the crisp meringue, and the smooth, creamy filling. The harmonious layers are a reminder that some recipes never go out of style.
Not only does this cake have universal appeal, but it’s also a versatile dessert that can be adapted for various occasions. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a special dinner, or simply craving a sweet treat, this cake fits the bill. It’s ideal for gatherings because it’s easy to slice into portions, making it a great dessert for serving a crowd.
Beyond its flavor, this cake represents the love and care that goes into baking from scratch. While the process may take some time, the results are well worth it. This dessert is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life, offering layers of flavor, texture, and indulgence.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 300-350 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 100mg
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, this cake is ideal for making ahead of time. Once assembled and refrigerated, it will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to develop further.
2. Can I use other nuts besides walnuts?
Yes, you can easily substitute the walnuts with other nuts such as pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts, depending on your preference.
3. Can I make the meringue layer ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the meringue layer in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature until you are ready to assemble the cake. Just be sure to add the cream filling and chocolate drizzle just before serving.
4. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the entire cake, but it’s best to freeze it without the cream filling. If you do freeze it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Tips for Making the Perfect Cake
- Ensure Proper Egg White Beating: When making the meringue, ensure that the egg whites are beaten until stiff peaks form, which gives the meringue structure and texture.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the cream filling, make sure that the cream cheese and cream are at room temperature. This helps the filling come together smoothly.
- Monitor the Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly, especially when baking the meringue layer at a lower temperature. This will help ensure a crisp meringue that doesn’t burn.
- Chill Before Serving: Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. This allows the cream to set and the flavors to meld, resulting in a more cohesive dessert.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: The cake can be frozen without the cream filling. Freeze the meringue and cake layers, then add the filling after thawing for a fresher taste.
Conclusion
The Chocolate Meringue Cake with Cream and Walnuts is a timeless dessert that has everything you could want in a sweet treat—rich chocolate, light and crisp meringue, crunchy walnuts, and a creamy, smooth filling. This cake is not just a dessert, but a celebration of flavors, textures, and indulgence. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a sweet escape after a long day, this cake is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare for a dessert experience that’s as satisfying as it is memorable. Bon appétit!