Bolivian-inspired Varaždinska Torta

Ingredients

In this Bolivian-inspired adaptation of Varaždinska Torta, we incorporate traditional Bolivian ingredients and flavors. The original Croatian recipe is transformed by replacing some of the ingredients with Bolivian counterparts. The dulce de leche cream adds a distinct caramel sweetness, while the chocolate ganache enhances the richness of the cake. The decorative patterns on the cake reflect the artistic influence of Bolivian culture, giving it a unique and vibrant appearance. We alse have the original recipe for Varaždinska torta, so you can check it out.

• 6 eggs 6 eggs
• 200g (1 cup) sugar 200g (1 cup) sugar
• 200g (1 ½ cups) all-purpose flour 200g (1 ½ cups) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 400ml (1 ¾ cups) dulce de leche 400ml (1 ¾ cups) dulce de leche
• 300ml (1 ¼ cups) heavy cream 300ml (1 ¼ cups) heavy cream
• 200g (7 oz) dark chocolate 200g (7 oz) dark chocolate
• 100ml (⅓ cup) milk 100ml (⅓ cup) milk
• Bolivian-inspired decorative toppings (e.g., colorful sprinkles, edible flowers) Bolivian-inspired decorative toppings (e.g., colorful sprinkles, edible flowers)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 35g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease two 20cm (8-inch) round cake pans.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Sift the flour and baking powder into the egg mixture, and gently fold until well combined.
4. 4.
   Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. 5.
   Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
6. 6.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. 7.
   Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
8. 8.
   In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
9. 9.
   Gently fold the dulce de leche into the whipped cream until well incorporated.
10. 10.
    Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of the dulce de leche cream over it.
11. 11.
    Top with the second cake layer and spread the remaining cream on top.
12. 12.
    In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate and milk together, stirring until smooth.
13. 13.
    Pour the chocolate ganache over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
14. 14.
    Decorate the cake with Bolivian-inspired decorative toppings.
15. 15.
    Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dulce de leche — If you can't find ready-made dulce de leche, you can make your own by simmering a can of sweetened condensed milk for a few hours until it thickens and caramelizes.
• Dark chocolate — Choose a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for the best flavor and texture.
• Bolivian-inspired decorative toppings — Get creative with your decorations by using colorful sprinkles, edible flowers, or traditional Bolivian patterns made from icing.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a light and fluffy sponge cake, make sure to beat the eggs and sugar until they are pale and tripled in volume.
• When folding the flour into the batter, use a gentle hand to avoid deflating the air incorporated during the beating process.
• For a smoother ganache, heat the milk before adding it to the chocolate.
• Allow the cake to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving to enhance the flavors and make it easier to slice.
• Serve the cake at room temperature for the best texture and taste.

Serving advice

Slice the Bolivian-inspired Varaždinska Torta into generous portions and serve it on individual dessert plates. Accompany each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of dulce de leche for an extra touch of indulgence.

Presentation advice

Present the Bolivian-inspired Varaždinska Torta on a decorative cake stand or platter to showcase its vibrant appearance. Garnish the cake with edible flowers or colorful sprinkles to add a festive touch. Serve it with a side of whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant finishing touch.