There’s something truly enchanting about lifting the lid off a beautifully adorned cake, revealing layers of soft sponge, creamy custard, and a luscious raspberry jam. I first encountered the Swedish Princess Cake at a charming little bakery during a trip to Sweden, and I was instantly captivated by its vibrant marzipan exterior and decadent filling. It’s the kind of dessert that makes every occasion feel special, whether it’s a birthday, a family gathering, or just a Sunday afternoon treat.
As I delved into the art of recreating this delightful cake at home, I discovered that its sophisticated appearance is surprisingly easy to achieve. With a little patience and a touch of creativity, you can transform simple ingredients into an elegant centerpiece for your next gathering. Join me on this culinary adventure as we whip up a sponge cake filled with vanilla custard and topped with raspberry jam, all encased in a stunning marzipan finish. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why is Swedish Princess Cake so special?
Enchanting Presentation: This cake is a visual delight that brings whimsy to any table setting.
Decadent Layers: The harmonious blend of sponge, custard, and raspberry jam creates a rich flavor that will impress your guests.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for celebrating birthdays or family gatherings, it’s sure to be a hit.
Creative Expression: Decorate with vibrant marzipan and icing to showcase your artistic flair.
Easier Than You Think: With a bit of patience, you can master this stunning cake at home. Get inspired to explore more delightful recipes like this one!
Swedish Princess Cake Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to this exquisite cake with these essential ingredients!
For the Sponge Cake
• 4 large eggs – These will give the cake its light and airy texture.
• 1 cup sugar – Essential for sweetness, helping to balance the flavors.
• 1/2 cup flour – Provides the structure needed for the sponge.
• 1/2 cup cornstarch or potato flour – Ensures a tender crumb; use potato flour for a gluten-free option.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Aiding in rising to create that fluffy sponge.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake.
For the Vanilla Custard Filling
• 1 cup whole milk – Adds richness and creaminess to the custard.
• 4 egg yolks – These contribute to a rich, velvety texture in the filling.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Thicken the custard, giving it the perfect consistency.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the custard filling beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses the filling with delightful vanilla flavor.
• 1 envelope .25 oz. powdered unflavored gelatin – Stabilizes the custard for a perfect hold.
• 2 tablespoons cold water – To dissolve the gelatin.
For the Stabilized Whipped Cream
• 2 cups heavy cream, whipped – Ensures the whipped cream is fluffy and delicious.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream while maintaining its soft texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the cream.
For Assembly and Decoration
• 1/3 cup raspberry jam – Adds a tart and fruity contrast to the sweet layers.
• Powdered sugar for dusting – Finishes the presentation beautifully.
• 1 lb. prepared marzipan – The show-stopping exterior that makes this cake a Scandinavian classic.
• Leaf green food color – Adds a touch of charm to your marzipan decoration.
• Ready-made rose icing decorations – Perfect for adding elegance to your cake.
• Baker’s rose food color – To enhance the appearance of your decorations.
• Clear extract any flavor – A beautiful touch to customize or enhance your cake’s flavor profile.
Get ready to impress your friends and family with your very own Swedish Princess Cake, a true labor of love that is as rewarding as it is delicious!
How to Make Swedish Princess Cake
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Beat eggs and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs and sugar, whipping them together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and has doubled in volume—a lovely pale yellow hue will signify that it’s ready!
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Fold in dry ingredients: Carefully sift and fold in the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Be gentle to maintain the airy texture you’ve created.
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Bake the sponge: Pour the batter into a prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown, approximately 25-30 minutes—keep an eye on it!
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Heat the milk: For the vanilla custard filling, warm up the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen!
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Whisk egg mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, corn starch, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
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Combine with milk: Slowly mix in the hot milk to the egg mixture, stirring constantly to temper the eggs. This will ensure a smooth custard texture!
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Thicken the custard: Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continually until it thickens—about 5-7 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
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Add vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, letting the custard cool while you prepare the whipped cream.
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Dissolve gelatin: In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin in cold water and let it sit to bloom for a few minutes.
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Whip cream: In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This will be your fluffy indulgence!
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Incorporate gelatin: Warm the bloomed gelatin slightly until just dissolved, then fold it into the whipped cream gently, ensuring it’s well combined without deflating the cream.
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Layer the cake: To assemble, slice the cooled sponge cake into even layers. Begin layering with the vanilla custard filling and raspberry jam in between each layer, stacking them up proudly.
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Decorate with marzipan: Roll out the marzipan to cover the cake seamlessly, smoothing it over. Dust with powdered sugar to finish, and adorn it with green food coloring and rose icing decorations.
Optional: Add fresh raspberries on top for an extra pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Swedish Princess Cake components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the sponge cake up to 24 hours in advance; simply cool it completely and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh. The vanilla custard filling can also be made up to 3 days ahead—just refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, the stabilized whipped cream will stay lovely and fluffy in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to assemble, layer the custard and raspberry jam between the cake layers, then roll out the marzipan and decorate as desired. This way, you’ll achieve that dazzling dessert with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Swedish Princess Cake?
Indulging in a slice of this elegant cake invites you to create a magical dining experience.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds vibrant color and a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness of the cake.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream can enhance the cake’s sweetness while offering a deliciously airy texture contrast. A dollop on the side is perfect for indulging.
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Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of tea or a rich coffee complements the sponge’s delicate flavors, making for a cozy pairing that enhances the afternoon treat experience.
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Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with a drizzle of honey provides a bright, sweet contrast, perfectly balancing the creamy and sugary layers of the cake.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy richness that beautifully mingles with the sponge and custard, making every bite a delightful surprise.
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Lemonade or Sparkling Water: Refreshing beverages, such as homemade lemonade or fizzy sparkling water with a hint of mint, cleanse the palate and keep your gathering light and fun.
Each of these accompaniments adds its distinct touch while ensuring the lovely Swedish Princess Cake remains the star of your dessert table!
Expert Tips for Swedish Princess Cake
Eggs Matter: Use room temperature eggs for better aeration when whisking, ensuring a fluffy sponge cake.
Gentle Folding: When incorporating dry ingredients, fold gently to keep the air in; over-mixing can lead to a dense cake.
Custard Cooling: Allow your custard to cool before layering; this prevents it from melting into the sponge and creating soggy layers.
Whipped Cream Perfection: Ensure your heavy cream is cold before whipping. This helps achieve soft peaks, creating that light texture everyone loves.
Marzipan Magic: When rolling out marzipan, dust your surface lightly with powdered sugar to prevent sticking and cracking as you shape it.
Flavor Balance: Don’t be afraid to tweak the raspberry jam quantity to achieve the perfect sweet-tart balance in your Swedish Princess Cake!
Swedish Princess Cake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity flow by customizing this delightful cake with these inspiring options!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for regular flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities. The cake still retains its charming texture!
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Dairy-Free: Use almond or coconut milk and a dairy-free cream alternative to make a luscious custard that caters to lactose intolerance. It’s a delightful twist!
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Fruit Fillings: Swap raspberry jam for strawberry or blueberry jam to create a fresh, seasonal flavor that dazzles the palate. Why not mix and match?
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Flavorful Textures: Add finely chopped nuts, like pistachios or almonds, to your sponge for an extra crunch that enhances the overall experience. This adds richness and flavor contrasts!
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Reduced Sugar: Cut the sugar in the sponge and custard by half and substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup for a healthier option without sacrificing taste. Sweetness is subjective!
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Decorative Fun: Try using edible flowers or seasonal fruits on top instead of marzipan decorations for a rustic farmhouse charm that’s visually stunning. Your creativity shines through!
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Chocolate Layer: Incorporate cocoa powder into the sponge batter to create a chocolate version of the cake, a perfect indulgence for any chocolate lover. Chocolate dreams come true!
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Nutella Fusion: Spread a thin layer of Nutella along with the raspberry jam for a luscious chocolate-hazelnut twist that brings a smile to any dessert table. Mix flavors in harmony!
How to Store and Freeze Swedish Princess Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the assembled cake covered at room temperature for up to 1 day; be sure to keep it away from direct sunlight to maintain its moisture.
Fridge: Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and the custard stable.
Freezer: If you need to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, ensuring no air is trapped; it can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Thaw the cake overnight in the fridge before serving to retain moisture and ensure the flavors are as delightful as on the first day!
Swedish Princess Cake Recipe FAQs
What eggs should I use for the sponge cake?
Absolutely, using large eggs at room temperature is best for achieving that fluffy texture! Room temperature eggs incorporate air better when whisked, resulting in a light, airy sponge. If you forgot to take them out ahead of time, just place them in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes before use.
How should I store leftover Swedish Princess Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If it’s fully assembled, you can cover it with plastic wrap or foil to maintain moisture, making sure it’s kept away from strong odors in the fridge.
Can I freeze the Swedish Princess Cake?
Yes! To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, ensuring no air is trapped to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best texture and flavor.
What should I do if my whipped cream isn’t thickening?
If your whipped cream isn’t thickening, start by ensuring your heavy cream is cold; this makes a huge difference. Also, check your mixing bowl and beaters; ensure they’re clean and chilled, as any fat residue can prevent proper thickening. Add a bit more powdered sugar or even an extra tablespoon of cornstarch to help stabilize it.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Very! To make a gluten-free version of the Swedish Princess Cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Also, ensure that the cornstarch and baking powder are gluten-free. Just keep in mind that gluten-free cakes may have a slightly different texture, but they can be just as delicious!
Can pets eat marzipan?
No, it’s best not to share marzipan with pets, especially dogs and cats. Marzipan contains sugar and sometimes almond extract, which can be harmful to them. Keep it out of reach while enjoying your delicious Swedish Princess Cake!
Swedish Princess Cake: A Whimsical Delight to Impress
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs and sugar, whipping until light and fluffy.
- Carefully sift and fold in flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
- Pour the batter into a prepared baking pan and bake until golden brown for 25-30 minutes.
- Warm the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, cornstarch, and sugar until smooth.
- Slowly mix in the hot milk to the egg mixture, stirring constantly.
- Return to the saucepan and cook over low heat until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, letting cool.
- In a small bowl, dissolve gelatin in cold water and let sit.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Warm the bloomed gelatin and fold it into the whipped cream gently.
- Slice the cooled sponge cake into layers. Layer with custard and raspberry jam.
- Roll out marzipan to cover the cake, dust with powdered sugar, and decorate.