Karpatka Custard Cake: A Delicious Slice of Polish Tradition

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Choux Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and a pinch of salt. Heat until the butter melts and the mixture boils.

3. Remove from heat and stir in the flour all at once. Mix vigorously until a smooth dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

4. Let the dough cool slightly before adding eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should be thick yet smooth.

5. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Spread each portion on separate parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Let them cool completely.

2. Make the Custard Cream

1. In a saucepan, heat the milk until just warm.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and egg yolks until smooth. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.

3. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens into a smooth custard.

4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly, then mix in the softened butter until fully incorporated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

3. Assemble the Karpatka Cake

1. Place one layer of baked choux pastry on a serving tray.

2. Spread the custard cream evenly over the first layer.

3. Gently place the second pastry layer on top.

4. Dust generously with powdered sugar to mimic snow on mountain peaks.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Karpatka is best served chilled, allowing the custard to set fully between the pastry layers. Slice with a sharp knife and watch the custard ooze luxuriously with each bite—a true taste of Poland!

Tips for the Perfect Karpatka

• Chill your custard: This makes spreading easier and prevents the top layer from sinking.

• Bake evenly: Rotate your baking sheets halfway through baking for uniform puffing.

• Experiment with flavors: Add a teaspoon of coffee or cocoa to the custard for a creative twist.

Karpatka Custard Cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a celebration of texture, flavor, and tradition. Its rustic charm and creamy indulgence make it a centerpiece on any table, whether for family gatherings, holidays, or a simple weekend treat. Once you try making it at home, it’s hard not to fall in love with this “mountain” of sweetness.