Absolutely, Ashley! Here’s a heartfelt and detailed recipe for the legendary Hungarian Gerbeaud Cake (Zserbó Szelet) 🇭🇺 — a true gem of Hungarian baking tradition. This rich, layered walnut and apricot jam pastry with a glossy chocolate top has graced holiday tables for generations.
🇭🇺 Hungarian Gerbeaud Cake – Zserbó Szelet
This elegant and indulgent dessert was named after Emil Gerbeaud, the famous Swiss-born confectioner who ran the renowned Gerbeaud Café in Budapest. Zserbó is a holiday classic — especially around Christmas and Easter — known for its delicate layers, sweet nutty filling, and decadent chocolate glaze.
🧺 Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (7g) instant yeast or 25g fresh yeast
- ½ cup (100g) sugar
- 1 pinch of salt
- ¾ cup (170g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 2 egg yolks
- ½ cup (120ml) warm milk
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
For the Filling:
- 1 ½ – 2 cups (180–240g) ground walnuts
- ¾ cup (150g) sugar
- 1 ½ cups (400g) apricot jam (smooth, good-quality)
For the Chocolate Glaze:
- 3 ½ oz (100g) dark chocolate (around 60–70% cocoa)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp neutral oil (optional, for shine)