👩🍳 Instructions
🔸 Step 1: Make the Hazelnut Meringue Discs
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line 5 baking sheets with parchment paper. Draw 8-inch (20 cm) circles on the paper to use as guides.
- In a clean bowl, whip egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the sugar, a tablespoon at a time, and continue to whip until glossy stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the ground hazelnuts and flour.
- Spread or pipe the batter evenly onto the 5 drawn circles.
- Bake each disc for 18–20 minutes, or until dry and lightly golden. Let cool completely.
🔸 Step 2: Prepare the Custard Cream Filling
- In a saucepan, whisk egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and milk together over low heat.
- Stir constantly until the mixture thickens into a custard (don’t let it boil).
- Remove from heat, add vanilla, and let cool completely.
- Once both custard and butter are room temp, beat the butter until creamy.
- Gradually add in the custard to create a smooth, rich buttercream.
🔸 Step 3: Assemble the Torte
- Place the first hazelnut layer on a cake board or serving plate.
- Spread a thin, even layer of custard cream on top.
- Repeat with the remaining layers, finishing with a plain meringue disc on top.
- Use remaining cream to smooth the sides.
🔸 Step 4: Make the Glaze & Signature Decoration
- Mix powdered sugar, water, and lemon juice to make a thick white glaze.
- Pour and gently spread over the top layer.
- Immediately pipe concentric circles of melted chocolate.
- Using a toothpick or knife, drag lines from the center outward to create the spiderweb effect.
🔸 Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the torte for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing.
- Use a hot, sharp knife to cut neat slices and admire those elegant layers!
💡 Pro Tips
- Hazelnuts: Toasting them lightly before grinding enhances flavor.
- Decoration: Don’t worry about perfection. The charm lies in the homemade touch!
- Storage: Keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days — and actually tastes even better the next day.
☕ How to Serve It
- With an espresso or strong coffee.
- At elegant gatherings or holiday tables.
- Or just you, a fork, and five peaceful minutes to yourself.
💌 A Taste of Hungarian Tradition
This Esterházy Torte is more than just a dessert. It’s a link to generations past — a symbol of celebration, family, and artistry. The crunchy-chewy hazelnut layers, silky custard, and charming chocolate swirl all come together in a cake that whispers, “I’m special.”
If you ever wondered what elegance tastes like in dessert form — this is it. 💕
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