📝 Instructions
Step 1: Make the Hazelnut Meringue Layers
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line 5 baking sheets with parchment paper.
2️⃣ In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy.
3️⃣ Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
4️⃣ Gently fold in the ground hazelnuts and flour with a spatula.
5️⃣ Divide the batter into 5 equal portions and spread each one into a 9-inch (23cm) circle on parchment paper.
6️⃣ Bake for 12-15 minutes until slightly golden. Let them cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard Filling
1️⃣ In a heatproof bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale.
2️⃣ In a saucepan, heat the milk until warm (but not boiling).
3️⃣ Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
4️⃣ Return the mixture to the stove and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5 minutes).
5️⃣ Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and rum. Let it cool.
6️⃣ Once cooled, beat in butter and ground hazelnuts until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Torte
1️⃣ Place one meringue layer on a serving plate.
2️⃣ Spread a thin layer of custard over it.
3️⃣ Repeat with all layers, finishing with a custard layer on top.
4️⃣ Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
Step 4: Make the Signature Esterházy Glaze
1️⃣ Mix powdered sugar with milk or water until smooth.
2️⃣ Pour the glaze over the chilled cake and smooth it out.
3️⃣ Pipe melted dark chocolate in circles on top.
4️⃣ Use a toothpick to drag lines from the center outward to create the classic Esterházy web pattern.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
1️⃣ Let the cake set in the fridge for at least 3 hours (or overnight).
2️⃣ Slice and enjoy this delicate, nutty, and creamy Hungarian masterpiece!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
☕ Enjoy with coffee or espresso for the perfect pairing.
🍷 For a traditional touch, serve with a glass of Tokaji wine.
🍫 Dust with cocoa powder or extra hazelnuts for decoration.
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
✔ Make it extra nutty – Swap hazelnuts for almonds or walnuts. 🌰
✔ Want a softer cake? Brush each layer with apricot jam before adding custard. 🍑
✔ No rum? Use brandy or vanilla extract instead.
✔ Gluten-Free Option – Replace flour with cornstarch or almond flour.
🇭🇺 Enjoy This Elegant Hungarian Delight! 🇭🇺
This Esterházy Torte is a true showstopper – delicate yet rich, nutty yet creamy! 😍 Would you like a simplified version, or do you prefer the traditional one? Let me know! 😊