Did you know that you can make a Ukrainian waffle cake recipe with either waffles or wafer sheets? An authentic Slavic dessert is made with wafer sheets and dulce de leche but if you don’t have any wafer sheets, you can use waffles instead.
This dessert is easy to make with three main ingredients: wafer sheets or waffles, dulce de leche, and butter. You’ll need 2 cans of sweetened condensed milk to make the dulce de leche, 1/2 cup of butter, 1/2 cup of cream cheese, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and 2 packages of wafer layers or several waffles.
To make this Ukrainian dessert, follow these steps:
- Mix the dulce de leche, softened butter, and cream cheese until smooth.
- Spread a thin layer of the mixture on each wafer sheet.
- Stack the sheets, alternating between wafer and filling.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Slice and serve your waffle cake.
This Slavic treat can be made in many ways. Some add rum or brandy for a grown-up taste. Others add nuts or chocolate for extra texture. You can even try a birthday cake waffle recipe for special occasions.
This waffle cake lasts a long time. You can keep it at room temperature for a week or freeze it for three months. It’s perfect for parties or when guests drop by unexpectedly.
Key Takeaways
- Ukrainian waffle cake is a no-bake Slavic dessert.
- The recipe requires only three main ingredients.
- The dessert can be stored for up to a week at room temperature.
- Variations include adding rum, nuts, or chocolate.
- The cake can be frozen for up to three months.
The Origins of Ukrainian Waffle Cake
Ukrainian Waffle Cake became a favorite dessert in the Soviet era. It was first made in 1956 at the Kyiv Confectionery Factory. It quickly became a hit in many countries, making it an important part of Ukrainian food history.
The recipe is simple: tort wafers, dulce de leche, and butter. This simplicity came from the limited food choices back then. Yet, it created a dessert that was loved at every celebration. Today, it’s still a beloved part of Ukrainian heritage.
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Wafers | 2 packages (9 layers, 9″ diameter) |
Dulce de Leche | 2 cans (14 oz each) |
Unsalted Butter | 1 stick (softened) |
This Ukrainian waffle cake is great for any celebration. Its diamond-shaped pieces remind us of tradition. It tastes amazing with coffee or tea.
Over time, many variations of the cake have been created. From Chocolate Raspberry Bliss to Matcha Green Tea Elegance, these new recipes keep the cake’s spirit alive. They show how the dessert can evolve while staying true to its Soviet roots.
Essential Ingredients for Ukrainian Waffle Cake
The Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche is a simple yet delicious dessert. It only needs a few important ingredients to make a mouthwatering Ukrainian treat. Let’s look at what you need to make this Slavic delight.
Wafer Sheets: The Foundation
You’ll need one package of plain wafer sheets. These should be round or square, with 9 layers and a 9-inch diameter. The wafers form the base of your cake, providing a crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. If you don’t have any wafer sheets, you can use some waffles instead.
Dulce de Leche: The Creamy Star
The star of this cake is dulce de leche. You’ll need one 14-ounce can of this sweet, caramel-like spread. It’s made from slowly heated sweetened condensed milk and adds a rich, indulgent flavor to the cake.
Butter: For Added Richness
To enhance the cake’s flavor and texture, you’ll need unsalted butter. This ingredient adds a luxurious richness to the dessert.
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Wafer Sheets | 1 package (9 layers, 9-inch diameter) | Cake base |
Dulce de Leche | 1 can (14 oz) | Creamy filling |
Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup (4 oz) | Added richness |
With these three main ingredients, you can create a delightful Ukrainian Waffle Cake that serves 10 people. The preparation time is just 20 minutes, making it a quick and easy dessert option for any occasion.
Sourcing Authentic Wafer Sheets
Finding authentic wafer sheets for your Ukrainian Waffle Cake is easier than you might think. European grocery stores are your best bet for locating these essential ingredients. Many of these specialty shops carry a wide selection of wafer sheets perfect for crafting this delightful Slavic dessert.
If you don’t have a European grocery store nearby, don’t worry. You can find wafer sheets at some Walmart locations with Russian sections. Asian markets often stock these versatile wafers too. When shopping, look for wafers without added coloring to maintain the traditional flavor and appearance of your cake.
For those who prefer online shopping, Amazon offers a convenient solution. You can easily order wafer sheets from the comfort of your home and have them delivered right to your doorstep. This option is particularly useful if you live in an area without easy access to specialty stores.
Store Type | Availability | Variety |
---|---|---|
European Grocery Stores | High | Wide range |
Walmart (Russian section) | Moderate | Limited |
Asian Markets | Moderate | Varied |
Amazon | High | Extensive |
Remember, the quality of your wafer sheets can make or break your Ukrainian Waffle Cake. Take the time to source authentic ingredients for the best results. Your taste buds will thank you!
Making Homemade Dulce de Leche
Making homemade dulce de leche is a fun process. It turns sweetened condensed milk into a rich, caramel-like spread. This spread is great for the Ukrainian Waffle Cake and can be made in different ways.
Slow Cooker Method
The slow cooker method is easy. Pour a 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk into a glass jar. Put the jar in your slow cooker, fill it with water, and cook on low for 8 hours. You’ll get a smooth, golden dulce de leche.
Instant Pot Technique
For a quicker option, use an Instant Pot. Remove the label from a can of sweetened condensed milk and put it in the Instant Pot. Add water to cover the can, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 40 minutes. Let it cool for 20 minutes before carefully removing the can.
Stovetop Preparation
The traditional stovetop method involves simmering an unopened can of sweetened condensed milk in a pot of water for 2.5 hours. Make sure the can stays fully submerged. Once cooled, open it to reveal your homemade dulce de leche.
Method | Cooking Time | Yield | Storage |
---|---|---|---|
Slow Cooker | 8 hours | 14 oz | Room temp, 2 weeks |
Instant Pot | 1 hour | 14 oz | Room temp, 2 weeks |
Stovetop | 2.5 hours | 14 oz | Room temp, 2 weeks |
Whichever method you choose, your homemade dulce de leche will make your Ukrainian Waffle Cake even better. Store it at room temperature for up to two weeks, just like canned food.
Step-by-Step Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche Recipe
Make a delicious Ukrainian waffle cake with dulce de leche cream. This traditional Slavic dessert is a mix of crispy wafers and creamy layers. For this recipe, we will substitute the wafers with waffles instead.
Preparing the Waffle Batter
First, get these ingredients for your waffle cake:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 oz granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp melted cooled butter
- 4 oz all-purpose flour
Here’s how to make the batter:
- Beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy
- Fold in melted butter
- Gradually add flour, mixing until smooth
- Let the batter rest for 10 minutes
Cooking Perfect Waffle Layers
To get crispy waffle layers:
- Preheat your waffle iron
- Pour 1/4 cup batter per waffle
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown
- Cool waffles on a wire rack
For the dulce de leche cream, mix 2 2/3 oz condensed milk with 8 oz cream cheese and 8 oz cool whip. Spread this between cooled waffle layers. Refrigerate your waffle cake for at least 2 hours before serving.
Component | Preparation Time | Cooking Time |
---|---|---|
Waffle Batter | 15 minutes | 25 minutes |
Dulce de Leche Cream | 10 minutes | N/A |
Assembly | 20 minutes | N/A |
Step-by-Step Layering and Assembly Instructions
Making a perfect Ukrainian waffle cake needs careful assembly and layering. This dessert has 12-14 crispy, thin wafer layers for three to four Belgian waffles. They require attention to detail and careful handling.
Traditional Layering Techniques
To assemble your waffle cake, follow these steps:
- Prepare a large tray or pan slightly bigger than your wafer sheets.
- Unwrap the wafer sheets just before assembly to prevent drying.
- Spread a generous layer of dulce de leche on each wafer or waffle, covering the edges.
- Stack layers until you reach the desired height.
- Place a heavy object on top of the cake to compress it.
- Let the cake sit for at least 6 hours or overnight.
For multi-cake preparations, wrap each 5-layer section separately in plastic wrap. This waffle cake assembly technique ensures even distribution of filling and proper melding of flavors.
Component | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Wafer sheets | 12-14 | Handle with care |
Dulce de leche | 12 oz | Spread evenly |
Cream cheese | 8 oz | For cream filling |
Heavy whipping cream | 16 oz | 35% fat minimum |
Remember, the wafer sheets are fragile. Keep 2-3 packs on hand in case some break during preparation. The entire process takes about 3 hours, but the results are worth the effort. Your Ukrainian waffle cake will yield approximately 48-50 servings when cut into diamonds, with each piece packing about 562 calories of pure delight.
Variations on the Classic Recipe
Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche is a versatile treat. It’s known as Вафли, Oblandi, or Oblatne in Eastern Europe. You can make it your own by adding different toppings and flavors.
Adding Nuts for Crunch
Make your waffle cake crunchier with nuts. Sprinkle chopped walnuts, pecans, or cashews between layers or on top. For a nutty twist, try this recipe:
- Prepare 8-10 thin round wafers or 5 thicker rectangle wafers or Belgian waffles
- Spread dulce de leche between each layer
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped nuts on every other layer
- Press the cake for 1 hour, then refrigerate for 2 hours
Chocolate-Drizzled Waffle Cake
Add a rich touch with a chocolate drizzle. This makes the classic recipe even more indulgent. Here’s how:
- Assemble the waffle cake as usual
- Melt 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the top layer
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set the chocolate
Fruit-Infused Versions
Try a fruity twist by adding fresh or preserved fruits. This adds flavor and color. Here’s a recipe:
- Spread dulce de leche on each wafer
- Top with thinly sliced strawberries or peaches
- Repeat for 8-10 layers
- Chill for 2 hours before serving
These variations offer a fun twist on the traditional recipe. Choose from nutty crunch, chocolate indulgence, or fruity freshness. For more ideas, read about these savory waffle recipes for unique dessert combinations.
Variation | Prep Time | Chilling Time | Key Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|
Classic | 20 minutes | 1-2 hours | Wafers, Dulce de Leche |
Nutty | 25 minutes | 2 hours | Wafers, Dulce de Leche, Chopped Nuts |
Chocolate-Drizzled | 30 minutes | 30 minutes | Wafers, Dulce de Leche, Dark Chocolate |
Fruit-Infused | 25 minutes | 2 hours | Wafers, Dulce de Leche, Fresh Fruit |
Chocolate-infused versions on Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche
Chocolate lovers will adore the Ukrainian Waffle Cake with a cocoa twist. This change makes the dessert rich and indulgent, ideal for special moments.
To make a chocolate waffle cake, add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the batter. This step gives the layers a deep chocolate taste. For more chocolate, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of cocoa nibs between each layer.
For a deeper chocolate flavor, try this method:
- Melt 8 oz of dark chocolate in a double boiler
- Let it cool slightly
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over each layer of dulce de leche
- Finish with a generous drizzle over the top of the cake
Another choice is using chocolate-flavored wafers. You can find them in specialty stores or make them at home. Just add 1/3 cup of cocoa powder to your waffle batter.
The secret to a great chocolate waffle cake is balance. The chocolate should enhance the dulce de leche without overpowering it. Try different chocolate percentages to find your perfect mix.
Nutty alternatives (pecan, walnut, etc.) on Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche
Adding nuts to your Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche takes it to the next level. These nuts make the dessert a pecan waffle cake or walnut dessert. They add a nice crunch and flavor.
Pecans, walnuts, and cashews are great for this Slavic treat. Sprinkle about 1/2 cup of chopped nuts between layers or on top for extra crunch. Here’s how to add nuts to your cake:
- Toast 1/2 cup of your chosen nuts in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes
- Let the nuts cool, then chop them coarsely
- Sprinkle the chopped nuts between waffle layers as you assemble the cake
- Alternatively, press the nuts into the top layer of dulce de leche for a decorative finish
Different nuts bring unique flavors to the sweet dulce de leche. Here are some popular choices:
Nut Type | Flavor Profile | Texture |
---|---|---|
Pecans | Buttery, rich | Crisp, slightly chewy |
Walnuts | Earthy, slightly bitter | Crunchy, meaty |
Cashews | Sweet, creamy | Smooth, softer crunch |
Try different nut combinations to make your Ukrainian Waffle Cake unique. The nutty additions will wow your guests and give your dessert a gourmet twist.
Tropical twists (coconut, pineapple additions) on Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche
Turn your Ukrainian Waffle Cake into a tropical paradise. This twist adds exotic flavors to the classic dessert. It’s a delicious coconut dessert perfect for summer.
To make this tropical version, start with the traditional Ukrainian Waffle Cake recipe. For the waffle batter, you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Now, let’s add some tropical flair to your pineapple cake creation:
- Mix the waffle batter ingredients in a large bowl until smooth.
- Fold in 1/2 cup shredded coconut and 1/4 cup finely chopped dried pineapple.
- Cook the waffles in a preheated waffle maker for about 3-4 minutes each.
- Cool the waffles completely before assembling the cake.
- Spread a layer of dulce de leche between each waffle.
- Sprinkle additional coconut and pineapple between layers for extra texture.
For a final tropical touch, top your waffle cake with fresh pineapple slices and toasted coconut flakes. This unique twist on waffles combines the best of both worlds. It brings together the traditional Ukrainian dessert and the flavors of a tropical paradise.
Adapting the Recipe for Dietary Restrictions
Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche can be made for different diets. You can make it gluten-free, vegan, or low in sugar. Just a few simple changes can do the trick.
Gluten-Free Options
To make a gluten-free waffle cake, swap regular flour for a gluten-free mix. Use 2 cups of gluten-free flour, 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum, and follow the recipe. The taste will be just as good, even if the texture is a bit different.
Vegan Alternatives
To make vegan dulce de leche, use coconut milk. Boil 2 cans of full-fat coconut milk with 1 cup of brown sugar for 2-3 hours. It will thicken into a caramel-like sauce. Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter in the same amount.
Low-Sugar Variations
For low-sugar desserts, use sugar substitutes. In the waffle batter, use 1/2 cup of erythritol or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar. For dulce de leche, use 1/2 cup of a low-calorie sweetener instead of sugar.
Dietary Need | Key Substitution | Amount |
---|---|---|
Gluten-Free | Gluten-free flour mix | 2 cups |
Vegan | Coconut milk (for dulce de leche) | 2 cans |
Low-Sugar | Erythritol or monk fruit sweetener | 1/2 cup |
These changes let everyone enjoy this Slavic dessert, no matter their dietary needs. The recipe’s flexibility is similar to “One Bake, Two Ways.” It offers both traditional and vegan versions of 50 recipes.
Additional Fillings and Frostings to Complement Dulce de Leche
Ukrainian Waffle Cake is amazing with its dulce de leche filling. But, you can also try other fillings. These can make your dessert even more exciting.
Cream-based Fillings
Salted Caramel Buttercream is a tasty twist on dulce de leche. It’s made with butter, dulce de leche, and sugar. You can use it to frost a cake or cupcakes.
Fruit Preserves and Jams
Fruit preserves add a sweet and tangy flavor to your waffle cake. Choose your favorite jam and spread it between the wafers. It’s a great match with dulce de leche.
Chocolate Ganache Options
Chocolate lovers will adore a chocolate ganache filling. It can be a glaze or a frosting. Waffle bowls with ganache and fruit are a stunning dessert.
Filling Type | Key Ingredients | Texture |
---|---|---|
Salted Caramel Buttercream | Butter, dulce de leche, sugar | Creamy, rich |
Fruit Preserves | Fruit, sugar, pectin | Smooth, spreadable |
Chocolate Ganache | Chocolate, heavy cream | Silky, pourable to firm |
Nutritional Information and Dietary Adaptations
Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche is a rich dessert. It has up to 500 calories per serving. Most of these calories come from fats and sugars.
The butter and dulce de leche make it taste great. But they also make it high in calories.
Calorie Content and Macronutrients
A standard slice has about 25g of fat, 60g of carbs, and 5g of protein. While these numbers might seem high, you can still enjoy it in moderation. For a lighter option, try using plant-based food coloring to make rainbow waffles with fewer calories.
Healthier Substitutions in Recipes
To make healthier desserts, swap out some ingredients. Use whole wheat flour for more fiber. Replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat.
Use Greek yogurt instead of some dulce de leche. This boosts protein and cuts sugar. These changes can make a big difference in nutrition without losing flavor.
With these tweaks, you can lower the calorie count to 300-350 per serving.