Bulgarian Garash Cake Recipe: Garash cake is a beloved dessert in Bulgarian cuisine, known for its rich flavors and delightful textures. This chocolate cake features layers of walnut meringue and creamy chocolate filling, making it an unforgettable treat for any occasion.
Originating over a century ago, this cake has become a staple not only in Bulgaria but also in other parts of the world.
As we explore this recipe, we will guide you through the steps to create your own Bulgarian Garash cake. With its combination of simple yet elegant ingredients, this dessert is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Join us as we uncover the secrets behind this classic chocolate cake that has captured the hearts of many.
We have gathered insights and tips from our experiences traveling and learning about various culinary traditions. With this Garash cake recipe, you will not only impress your friends and family but also bring a piece of Bulgarian heritage into your home.
Why You’ll Love This Bulgarian Garash Cake Recipe
This Bulgarian Garash cake is a true delight for anyone who enjoys rich flavors and unique textures. Here are some reasons why we love this recipe:
- Layered Delight: With five layers of walnut meringue sponge, each bite offers a mix of chewy and crunchy textures. The layers create an impressive look and a satisfying experience.
- Decadent Chocolate Flavor: The chocolate cream filling and ganache provide a deep, rich chocolate taste that complements the nuttiness of the walnuts perfectly.
- Easy to Make: This cake uses simple ingredients that are easy to find. Even if you’re new to baking, we believe you can master this recipe with confidence.
- Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a special treat for yourself, this cake is perfect for any celebration.
- Cultural Experience: Trying this traditional Bulgarian recipe connects us with a rich culinary history. We love sharing beautiful dishes like this with friends and family.
In making the Garash cake, we also appreciate its origins. With history dating back to 1885, this cake represents a blend of cultures and stories from Bulgaria.
As we bake and share this cake, we feel part of something bigger—enjoying the flavors of another culture while creating our own wonderful memories.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Bulgarian Garash Cake, also known as Torta Garash, has a captivating history tied to its origins. Created in 1885 by Kosta Garash, a Hungarian confectioner, this cake belongs to a collection of traditional Bulgarian desserts.
What sets this cake apart is its unique flourless composition. Instead of flour, it features layers of walnut meringue and rich dark chocolate cream. This combination results in a dessert that is both decadent and gluten-free.
We appreciate that this cake is not just a sweet treat but a piece of Bulgarian culture. Served in many restaurants across Bulgaria, especially in cities like Sofia and Ruse, Torta Garash is often found at special celebrations.
The recipe we follow is an authentic one, reflecting its traditional roots. Each layer of the cake is meticulously crafted to bring out the best flavors, making it a beloved choice for important occasions.
Torta Garash is more than just a cake; it represents a fusion of culinary heritage and artistry that we enjoy sharing with friends and family.
Cooking Equipment Needed
To make Bulgarian Garash Cake, we need some essential cooking equipment. Here’s a list to help you prepare:
- Mixer: A stand or handheld mixer is great for whipping egg whites and blending batter smoothly.
- Baking Paper/Parchment Paper: This helps prevent the cake from sticking to the baking tray. It also makes for easy cleanup.
- Baking Tray: A flat baking tray is ideal for making the cake layers evenly.
- Cooking Spray: Spraying the pans with cooking spray helps further prevent sticking.
- Cake Form: A round cake pan, ideally 8 inches, is perfect for shaping our Garash Cake.
Having these items on hand will simplify the process. We recommend preparing everything before starting to bake for a smooth experience. Enjoy your baking!
Cooking Instructions
To make the Bulgarian Garash Cake, we will follow these steps carefully.
Steps:
- Prepare the Walnut Meringue:
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form. Then, gradually add sugar while whisking to create a glossy meringue.
- Fold in the ground walnuts gently.
- Bake the Cake Layers:
- Line springform pans with parchment paper.
- Divide the meringue mixture among the pans. Bake for 30-40 minutes until set.
- Let the layers cool.
- Make the Chocolate Ganache:
- Melt the dark chocolate and mix it with heavy cream until smooth.
- Allow it to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one walnut meringue layer on a plate. Then, spread a layer of chocolate ganache over it.
- Repeat the process with the remaining layers, stacking them carefully.
- Finish the Cake:
- Pour the remaining ganache on top and let it drip down the sides.
- Decorate with cocoa powder, icing sugar, or coconut flakes for a beautiful finish.
Enjoy your delicious Bulgarian Garash Cake!
Cooking Tips
To make a delicious Bulgarian Garash Cake, we recommend following these cooking tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh walnuts and good-quality chocolate. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in flavor.
- Whipping Egg Whites: When whipping egg whites, aim for stiff peaks. This means the peaks should stand straight up when you lift the mixer. It creates a light texture in the cake.
- Layer Evenly: As we build the cake, pour the fillings between the layers evenly. This helps maintain a balanced taste and keeps the layers from sliding apart.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool in the fridge for several hours. This helps the layers firm up and makes slicing easier.
- Chocolate Shell: For a shiny chocolate shell, melt chocolate with a bit of oil. Pour it over the cake once it’s been chilled.
- Serving: Serve the cake at room temperature. This enhances the rich flavors of the chocolate and walnuts.
Ingredients For the Bulgarian Garash Cake Recipe
Eggs
Butter
Cocoa Powder
Walnuts
SPLENDA®
Heavy Whipping Cream
Coconut
Cooking Instructions For the Bulgarian Garash Cake Recipe
Preparing the Oven and Tins
Start by preheating your oven to 170°C. Take two 8-inch loose-bottom cake tins and brush both the bottom and sides with vegetable oil. Place a sheet of baking parchment on the bottom of each tin, then lightly brush the parchment with more vegetable oil.
Making the Meringue
Place the egg whites into the bowl of a stand mixer and begin whipping on medium speed until stiff peaks form. Slowly incorporate the icing sugar into the egg whites. Once all the sugar is added, increase the speed to medium-high and continue whipping until you achieve a thick, glossy meringue. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped walnuts and flour. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the meringue in three separate additions.
Preparing the Sponge
Weigh the meringue mixture and divide the total weight by 5 to determine how much to place in each tin (approximately 150g per tin). Spread about 150g of the mixture into each prepared tin and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the sponge are slightly golden. Once baked, remove the sponges from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before removing them from the tins. Repeat the process with the remaining mixture.
Making the Filling
Once all walnut sponges are baked and cooled, prepare the filling. In a bowl, whip the cream and sugar together until soft peaks form. While this is happening, melt the chocolate. Once melted, slowly drizzle the chocolate into the cream while whisking rapidly. Be sure to work quickly to prevent the filling from splitting. After adding about half of the chocolate, switch to a spatula to avoid overwhipping. Fold in the rest of the chocolate and combine it with the cream.
Assembling the Cake
Prepare a baking tray that fits into your fridge, lining it with baking paper. This will be used for assembling the cake, and once assembled, you will transfer it to a wire rack for glazing later. Begin layering the walnut sponges with the chocolate filling in between each layer, saving enough filling to cover the top and sides of the cake. Be quick during this step as the cream can firm up if left to sit for too long.
Final Steps
Once the cake is assembled and the outside is fully covered with the chocolate filling, place the cake in the fridge for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up. For the best results, it’s recommended to make the cake the day before you need it. After 2 hours of refrigeration, cover the cake with clingfilm if preparing it in advance.
FAQ For the Bulgarian Garash Cake Recipe
Question: What is the Bulgarian Garash Cake recipe?
A: The Bulgarian Garash Cake recipe is a rich, flourless cake made primarily from ground walnuts, sugar, eggs, and cocoa. It is typically topped with a layer of chocolate ganache and baked until it has a dense, moist texture. It’s a popular dessert in Bulgaria for special occasions.
Question: Can I substitute the walnuts in the Bulgarian Garash Cake recipe?
A: While walnuts are traditionally used in the Bulgarian Garash Cake recipe, you can substitute them with other nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts. However, this will alter the flavor, so be mindful of how the change might affect the overall taste.
Question: How long does it take to bake the Bulgarian Garash Cake recipe?
A: The Bulgarian Garash Cake recipe typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes to bake, depending on your oven and the size of the cake. It’s important to check the cake with a toothpick to ensure it’s cooked through, as the texture is dense.
Question: Can I make the Bulgarian Garash Cake recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, the Bulgarian Garash Cake recipe can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld together. Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator if you prefer a firmer texture.
Question: How can I make the Bulgarian Garash Cake recipe more decadent?
A: To make the Bulgarian Garash Cake recipe more decadent, consider adding a rich chocolate ganache topping or a dusting of powdered sugar. You could also add a splash of rum or vanilla extract to the batter to enhance the flavor.
Bulgarian Garash Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 9 Eggs egg whites separated from egg yolks
- 1 cup Butter
- 9 tbsp Cocoa Powder
- 3 cups Walnuts raw
- 2/3 cups SPLENDA® Brown Sugar Blend, divided
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
- 1/4 cup Coconut shredded for decorating,
Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Tins
- Start by preheating your oven to 170°C. Take two 8-inch loose-bottom cake tins and brush both the bottom and sides with vegetable oil. Place a sheet of baking parchment on the bottom of each tin, then lightly brush the parchment with more vegetable oil.
Making the Meringue
- Place the egg whites into the bowl of a stand mixer and begin whipping on medium speed until stiff peaks form. Slowly incorporate the icing sugar into the egg whites. Once all the sugar is added, increase the speed to medium-high and continue whipping until you achieve a thick, glossy meringue. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped walnuts and flour. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the meringue in three separate additions.
Preparing the Sponge
- Weigh the meringue mixture and divide the total weight by 5 to determine how much to place in each tin (approximately 150g per tin). Spread about 150g of the mixture into each prepared tin and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the sponge are slightly golden. Once baked, remove the sponges from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before removing them from the tins. Repeat the process with the remaining mixture.
Making the Filling
- Once all walnut sponges are baked and cooled, prepare the filling. In a bowl, whip the cream and sugar together until soft peaks form. While this is happening, melt the chocolate. Once melted, slowly drizzle the chocolate into the cream while whisking rapidly. Be sure to work quickly to prevent the filling from splitting. After adding about half of the chocolate, switch to a spatula to avoid overwhipping. Fold in the rest of the chocolate and combine it with the cream.
Assembling the Cake
- Prepare a baking tray that fits into your fridge, lining it with baking paper. This will be used for assembling the cake, and once assembled, you will transfer it to a wire rack for glazing later. Begin layering the walnut sponges with the chocolate filling in between each layer, saving enough filling to cover the top and sides of the cake. Be quick during this step as the cream can firm up if left to sit for too long.
Final Steps
- Once the cake is assembled and the outside is fully covered with the chocolate filling, place the cake in the fridge for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up. For the best results, it’s recommended to make the cake the day before you need it. After 2 hours of refrigeration, cover the cake with clingfilm if preparing it in advance.
Nutrition
1 comment
I tried the Bulgarian Garash Cake, and it was fantastic! The cake was moist, rich, and perfectly sweet. My guests loved the chocolatey texture, and they were impressed by how easy it was to make. It didn’t take long to prepare, and it was the perfect dessert to finish off the meal. I’ll definitely be making this again for future occasions.