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Classic Napoleon Cake

Featured in Irresistible Desserts.

This traditional Russian cake combines eight layers of thin, flaky pastry with creamy vanilla pastry cream, finished with crushed pastry crumbs.
Casey
Updated on Mon, 20 Jan 2025 20:11:00 GMT
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A slice of layered pastry dessert with cream filling is displayed on a wooden cake stand. | cookingwithcasey.com

I've mastered making Napoleon Cake after years of practice and love how the delicate pastry layers combine with creamy filling for that perfect texture in every bite. Let me share my tips for creating this stunning dessert.

Overnight Magic

Don't skip overnight chill essential. Pastry soaks cream develops flavor.

Even Layers

Roll dough consistently uniform. Use same size guide each layer.

Perfect Sweet

Adjust sugar cream filling. Match your taste preference balance.

Plan Ahead

Great make ahead dessert. Flavors improve with time perfect parties.

A multi-layered cake with a crumbly topping sits on a cake stand, showcasing a slice that reveals its creamy filling and crispy layers. Pin it
A multi-layered cake with a crumbly topping sits on a cake stand, showcasing a slice that reveals its creamy filling and crispy layers. | cookingwithcasey.com

Chocolate Love

Try ganache between layers. Creates decadent rich variation.

Elegant Touch

Add whipped cream honey drizzle. Elevates presentation enhances taste.

Special Diets

Use gluten free flour alternatives. Quality ingredients best results.

Cream Options

Try whipped cream mascarpone. Different texture same richness.

Pretty Tops

Decorate edible flowers citrus. Makes beautiful celebration cake.

A layered pastry cake with a crispy top sits on a wooden cake stand, with a light dusting of powdered sugar. Pin it
A layered pastry cake with a crispy top sits on a wooden cake stand, with a light dusting of powdered sugar. | cookingwithcasey.com

Perfect Pairs

Serve sparkling wine dessert liqueur. Complements vanilla butter flavors.

Layer Choice

Add more layers dramatic look. Fewer quick simple version.

Rich History

Russian celebration tradition. French name adds mystery charm.

Crumb Magic

Fine crumbs smooth finish. Adds texture professional look.

Easy Rolling

Use parchment paper help. Makes transfer layers simple clean.

A slice of layered cake with creamy filling and crumbly topping is placed on a rustic wooden plate. Pin it
A slice of layered cake with creamy filling and crumbly topping is placed on a rustic wooden plate. | cookingwithcasey.com

Fruit Touch

Add thin jam layer filling. Creates burst flavor excitement.

Pretty Top

Use scraps create designs. Bake place artistic finish.

Right Temperature

Room temp ingredients key. Makes smooth dough better cream.

Serving Time

Rest room temp before serve. Enhances cream taste texture.

Dough Storage

Refrigerate three days freeze month. Thaw fridge before use.

A layered cake with crumb topping is displayed on a cake stand, showcasing a slice removed to reveal its creamy interior. Pin it
A layered cake with crumb topping is displayed on a cake stand, showcasing a slice removed to reveal its creamy interior. | cookingwithcasey.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this cake ahead?
Yes, the components can be made ahead. The pastry dough can be refrigerated for several days, and the assembled cake needs at least 3 hours to set.
→ Why chill the dough?
Chilling helps the butter firm up and creates flakier layers when baked. The dough is also easier to handle when cold.
→ Why temper the eggs?
Gradually adding hot milk to eggs prevents them from curdling. This ensures a smooth, creamy pastry cream without lumps.
→ How long does this cake keep?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pastry layers continue to soften as it sits.
→ Can I freeze this cake?
Not recommended as freezing can affect the texture of both the pastry cream and the flaky layers.

Layered Pastry Cake

A classic Russian dessert featuring multiple layers of thin, flaky pastry filled with rich vanilla pastry cream.

Prep Time
90 Minutes
Cook Time
90 Minutes
Total Time
180 Minutes
By: Casey


Difficulty: Difficult

Cuisine: Russian

Yield: 12 Servings (1 8-inch cake)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 5½ cups all-purpose flour.
02 Pinch of salt.
03 3½ sticks unsalted butter, cold and cubed.
04 2 large eggs.
05 ¾ cup ice water.
06 1½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar.
07 1 teaspoon vanilla paste.
08 6 large egg yolks.
09 1 cup granulated sugar.
10 ⅔ cup all-purpose flour.
11 4 cups whole milk, divided.
12 1 cup unsalted butter.
13 2 teaspoons vanilla paste.

Instructions

Step 01

Pulse flour, salt, butter in food processor until crumbly. Mix in eggs, water, vinegar, vanilla until just combined.

Step 02

Divide dough into 8 portions, flatten into disks, wrap and refrigerate 2-3 hours.

Step 03

Roll each portion into thin circle. Cut to 8-inch diameter, prick with fork. Bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.

Step 04

Whisk egg yolks, sugar, flour with some milk. Heat remaining milk, temper into eggs. Cook until thickened.

Step 05

Stir in butter and vanilla. Cool completely.

Step 06

Layer pastry circles with cream. Cover top and sides with cream and crushed pastry crumbs.

Step 07

Refrigerate at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

  1. Can make dough ahead and refrigerate.
  2. Save pastry trimmings for crumb coating.
  3. Needs time to set for layers to soften.

Tools You'll Need

  • Food processor.
  • Rolling pin.
  • 8-inch round mold or template.
  • Baking sheets.
  • Saucepan.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Eggs.
  • Dairy (milk, butter).
  • Wheat (flour).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 776
  • Total Fat: 49 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 70 g
  • Protein: 14 g