Bhutanese-inspired Torcik Wedlowski

Ingredients

In this Bhutanese adaptation of Torcik Wedlowski, we incorporate traditional Bhutanese spices such as cardamom and cinnamon into the sponge cake, giving it a warm and aromatic flavor profile. Additionally, we replace the traditional cream filling with a creamy mixture of local Bhutanese cheese and honey, adding a touch of sweetness and a unique Bhutanese twist. The citrus glaze adds a tangy and refreshing element, perfectly balancing the richness of the cake. We alse have the original recipe for Torcik wedlowski, so you can check it out.

• For the sponge cake: For the sponge cake:
• 200g (1 ¾ cups) all-purpose flour 200g (1 ¾ cups) all-purpose flour
• 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
• 6 large eggs 6 large eggs
• 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cardamom 1 tsp ground cardamom
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 250g (1 cup) Bhutanese cheese (such as yak cheese or paneer), crumbled 250g (1 cup) Bhutanese cheese (such as yak cheese or paneer), crumbled
• 3 tbsp honey 3 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the citrus glaze: For the citrus glaze:
• Juice and zest of 2 oranges Juice and zest of 2 oranges
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 100g (½ cup) powdered sugar 100g (½ cup) powdered sugar
• For garnish: For garnish:
• Crushed pistachios Crushed pistachios

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 30g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a round cake pan.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, folding gently until well combined.
5. 5.
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. 6.
   Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely.
7. 7.
   In the meantime, prepare the filling by mixing the crumbled Bhutanese cheese, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
8. 8.
   Once the cake has cooled, slice it horizontally into two equal layers.
9. 9.
   Spread the cheese filling evenly over the bottom layer and place the top layer back on.
10. 10.
    For the citrus glaze, combine the orange juice, lemon juice, powdered sugar, and zest in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture has thickened slightly.
11. 11.
    Pour the citrus glaze over the assembled cake, allowing it to drizzle down the sides.
12. 12.
    Sprinkle crushed pistachios on top for garnish.
13. 13.
    Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
14. 14.
    Slice and serve chilled.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bhutanese cheese — If you can't find Bhutanese cheese, you can substitute it with paneer or a mild-flavored cheese like queso blanco.
• Cardamom — For the best flavor, use freshly ground cardamom pods instead of pre-ground cardamom.
• Crushed pistachios — To easily crush pistachios, place them in a ziplock bag and gently pound them with a rolling pin or use a food processor.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the citrus flavor, you can add a splash of orange blossom water to the glaze.
• For a spicier twist, sprinkle a pinch of Bhutanese red chili powder on top of the cake before serving.
• If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add a bit more honey to the cheese mixture.
• Make sure the cake is completely cooled before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.
• Serve the Torcik Wedlowski with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Serving advice

Serve the Bhutanese-inspired Torcik Wedlowski chilled for the best flavor and texture. Slice it into elegant portions and garnish each slice with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios. Pair it with a cup of Bhutanese butter tea or a refreshing mint-infused green tea for a delightful dessert experience.

Presentation advice

To present the Bhutanese-inspired Torcik Wedlowski, place a slice on a dessert plate and drizzle some of the citrus glaze around the plate for an artistic touch. Garnish the slice with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprig of fresh mint. The vibrant colors and contrasting textures will make it an eye-catching dessert.