Princess Cake
Introduction – The Royal Elegance of a Princess Cake
Imagine slicing into a dome-shaped cake covered in pastel green marzipan, revealing delicate layers of fluffy sponge cake, rich pastry cream, tart raspberry jam, and airy whipped cream. This is the Swedish Princess Cake, or Prinsesstårta, a dessert that has captivated cake lovers worldwide with its elegant appearance and exquisite taste.
Whether you’ve seen it displayed in a bakery window or enjoyed it as a special treat, the princess cake is a masterpiece that combines aesthetics with flavor. But what makes it so special? In this guide, you’ll explore its origins, ingredients, variations, and how you can make it yourself!
What Is a Princess Cake?
The Signature Elements
A cake is a classic Swedish dessert that stands out for its unique look and combination of flavors. Here’s what defines it:
- A dome-shaped design covered in smooth green marzipan.
- Three layers of vanilla sponge cake, separated by raspberry jam, pastry cream, and whipped cream.
- A light dusting of powdered sugar and a handmade marzipan rose as decoration.
- The result is a light, airy cake with a perfect balance of sweetness and richness.
The Meaning Behind the Name
Originally known as “Green Cake”, the name changed to “Princess Cake” in the 1940s. It was named after Swedish princesses Margaretha, Märtha, and Astrid, who loved this cake so much that it became their favorite treat.
The History and Origin of Cake
The Swedish Connection
The origins of cake date back to the early 20th century when Swedish home economics teacher Jenny Åkerström developed the recipe. She was a tutor to the Swedish princesses and included the cake in her cookbook “Prinsessornas Kokbok” (The Princesses’ Cookbook).
A Cultural Icon in Sweden
- Over time, the cake became a staple in Swedish bakeries.
- National Cake Week is celebrated annually in September, where bakeries showcase their best versions.
- The cake has since spread to Nordic countries, European patisseries, and specialty dessert shops worldwide.
- In Sweden, the cake is often served at birthdays, weddings, and even graduation celebrations, symbolizing elegance and festivity.
Why Is Princess Cake So Popular?
1. Stunning Aesthetic Appeal
- The cake’s smooth marzipan dome makes it instantly recognizable.
- The signature green color gives it a regal and elegant presentation.
- Often decorated with powdered sugar and a delicate marzipan rose.
- Some modern bakeries even use gold dust, edible pearls, or floral accents to enhance its visual appeal.
2. Unique Flavor and Texture
- The contrast of fluffy sponge cake, rich pastry cream, tart jam, and marzipan creates a one-of-a-kind experience.
- The cake is lighter than buttercream cakes, making it a refreshing alternative.
- The subtle nuttiness from marzipan adds depth to the flavor, balancing the sweetness.
3. A Dessert for Special Occasions
- Traditionally served for birthdays, weddings, and major celebrations in Sweden.
- Many upscale bakeries feature cakes as a luxury dessert option.
- It’s become a popular choice for tea parties, high-end afternoon teas, and festive occasions.
ingredient that make a perfect princess cake
For the Sponge Cake:
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (90g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
For the Pastry Cream:
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Whipped Cream Layer:
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- ½ cup (120g) raspberry jam
For the Marzipan Layer:
- 12 ounces (340g) marzipan
- A few drops of green food coloring
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for dusting)
For Decoration:
- 1 small marzipan rose (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy (about 5 minutes).
- Gently fold in the flour and baking powder, then add the vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter into the cake pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Pastry Cream
- In a saucepan, heat milk and half the sugar over medium heat until steaming.
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, cornstarch, and the remaining sugar until smooth.
- Slowly pour the hot milk into the yolk mixture while whisking constantly.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat until thickened, stirring constantly (about 3-5 minutes).
- Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla extract, and let cool completely.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
- In a cold mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Refrigerate until ready to assemble the cake.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Slice the sponge cake into three equal layers.
- Place the bottom layer on a cake board and spread raspberry jam evenly.
- Add the pastry cream over the jam and place the second cake layer on top.
- Spread half of the whipped cream over the second layer.
- Place the final cake layer on top and spread the remaining whipped cream, forming a rounded dome shape.
Step 5: Cover with Marzipan
- Knead green food coloring into the marzipan until evenly colored.
- Roll the marzipan out on a powdered sugar-dusted surface until thin and large enough to cover the cake.
- Carefully drape the marzipan over the cake, smoothing out any wrinkles. Trim the excess around the base.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Dust the cake with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
- Place a marzipan rose on top for decoration (optional).
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to set.
Serving & Storage Tips
- Serve chilled with a cup of Swedish coffee or tea.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Essential Ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose in Cake |
|---|---|
| Sponge Cake | Light, airy base for layering |
| Raspberry Jam | Provides a tart contrast to sweetness |
| Pastry Cream | Rich custard filling for creaminess |
| Whipped Cream | Enhances fluffiness and texture |
| Marzipan | Covers the cake, giving it a smooth finish |
| Powdered Sugar | Adds a decorative touch |
| Marzipan Rose | Traditional garnish for authenticity |
Ingredient Variations
- Some versions replace raspberry jam with lingonberry jam.
- Chocolate variations use cocoa-infused marzipan or chocolate glaze.
- Some modern versions use flavored marzipan in pink, white, or yellow.
- Alternative fillings such as hazelnut cream, lemon curd, or berry compote offer new twists on the classic flavor.
How to Make a Classic Cake at Home
Ingredients for this cake
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Granulated Sugar | ¾ cup |
| All-Purpose Flour | ¾ cup |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Whole Milk | 1 cup |
| Heavy Cream | 1 ½ cups |
| Vanilla Extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons |
| Raspberry Jam | ½ cup |
| Marzipan | 12 ounces |
| Green Food Coloring | Few drops |
| Powdered Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
Unique Flavor Twists on the Classic Cake
Want to customize your Princess Cake? Try these delicious variations:
🌸 Rose & Raspberry Cake
- Infuse the whipped cream with rose water for a floral aroma.
- Use rose petal jam instead of raspberry jam.
- Decorate with edible rose petals and gold flakes.
🍫 Chocolate Lovers’ Princess Cake
- Swap vanilla sponge for chocolate sponge.
- Use chocolate pastry cream instead of vanilla custard.
- Cover with cocoa-infused marzipan or a dark chocolate glaze.
🍋 Lemon Berry Princess Cake
- Add lemon zest to the sponge cake batter for a citrusy flavor.
- Use lemon curd instead of raspberry jam.
- Top with fresh berries for a vibrant, tangy contrast.
🌰 Nutty Hazelnut Princess Cake
- Use hazelnut praline in the pastry cream for a deeper nutty flavor.
- Sprinkle toasted hazelnuts between the layers.
- Cover with almond or hazelnut-flavored marzipan.
Mini Princess Cakes – Individual Servings for Parties
- Make small, individual-sized Princess Cakes for special occasions.
- Use a muffin tin or small cake rings to shape the mini cakes.
- Decorate with tiny marzipan flowers and edible pearls.
Themed Princess Cakes for Special Occasions
🎂 Royal Princess Cake:
- Gold dust and handcrafted edible tiaras on top.
- Pink marzipan instead of green for a fairy-tale feel.
🎄 Christmas Princess Cake:
- Swap raspberry jam for cranberry jam.
- Decorate with white chocolate snowflakes and sugared berries.
🧁 Birthday Cake Version:
- Sprinkle rainbow confetti inside the sponge layers.
- Use funfetti marzipan for an exciting, colorful effect.
🍑 Peach & Cream Summer Cake:
- Replace raspberry jam with peach preserves.
- Serve with fresh peach slices and mint leaves.
Vegan & Gluten-Free Princess Cake Variations
🥥 Dairy-Free & Vegan Princess Cake
- Replace heavy cream with coconut whipped cream.
- Use almond or oat milk for the custard.
- Swap butter for vegan margarine.
🌾 Gluten-Free Princess Cake
- Use a gluten-free sponge cake mix or almond flour.
- Ensure the marzipan and fillings are gluten-free.
Alternative Decorations for a Modern Look
- Ombre Marzipan: Use gradient-colored marzipan for a stylish effect.
- Hand-Painted Designs: Paint gold accents or floral details on the marzipan.
- Drip-Style Princess Cake: Add white chocolate ganache drips for a trendy look.
- Fresh Flowers & Berries: Instead of a marzipan rose, use real edible flowers.
Fun Serving Ideas
- Princess Cake Milkshake: Blend cake pieces with vanilla ice cream and milk for a decadent milkshake.
- Frozen Princess Cake Bites: Freeze small cake cubes, dip them in white chocolate, and serve as bite-sized treats.
- Princess Cake Sundae: Serve cake slices with vanilla ice cream, raspberry sauce, and whipped cream.
FAQs About Princess Cake
Is princess cake always green?
Traditionally, yes, but some versions come in pink, white, or chocolate-coated variations.
Can I make princess cake without marzipan?
Yes! You can substitute it with fondant or a thin layer of chocolate ganache.
How do I store princess cake?
Keep it refrigerated and consume within 3 days for the best freshness.
Can I make a gluten-free version of princess cake?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
What drinks pair well with princess cake?
- Champagne or sparkling wine enhances the cake’s delicate sweetness.
- Earl Grey or green tea complements the marzipan’s nutty notes.
- Swedish coffee (Kaffe) is a traditional pairing in Scandinavian cafés.
Conclusion – The Enduring Charm of Princess Cake
The Swedish Princess Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a masterpiece of Scandinavian baking that has stood the test of time. Whether you enjoy it at a bakery or make it yourself, its light, delicate flavors and stunning appearance make it an unforgettable treat.
Try It for Yourself!
💬 Have you ever tasted a princess cake? Share your experience in the comments below!
