Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche

This Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche is a rich, decadent treat that’s easy to make and perfect for special occasions. With layers of crispy wafers filled with a sweet, creamy dulce de leche filling, this dessert combines the perfect balance of crunch and indulgence. The addition of sweetened condensed milk, butter, and a touch of lemon juice creates a smooth and velvety filling that will melt in your mouth. This no-bake dessert is not only simple to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, from holidays to birthdays. Ukrainian cake recipes like this one are known for their delicious flavors and easy preparation.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of plain wafers (round or square, 9 layers, 9-inch diameter)
• 1 (14 oz) can of cooked sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 stick unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cooked sweetened condensed milk, softened butter, and lemon juice.
2. Beat the mixture on high speed for about 3 minutes until it becomes smooth and creamy.
3. Spread a thin layer of the cream mixture on each wafer, ensuring the edges are covered. Be sure to apply just enough cream to make the layers stick together.
4. You can either create 2 smaller cakes or 1 taller cake, depending on your preference. The layers will stack beautifully if the cake is not too tall.
5. Once assembled, place the cake under a heavy cutting board or use a homemade press by placing a bowl of water on top of a cutting board. Let it sit under pressure for at least 2 hours to set.
6. After the cake has set, slice it into pieces and serve.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ukrainian Waffle Cake is a delightful, no-bake dessert that combines the crispy texture of wafers with the rich, creamy sweetness of dulce de leche. It’s simple to make with just a few ingredients, yet it delivers a delicious and impressive treat perfect for special occasions or as a sweet snack. The light lemony touch adds a hint of freshness, making each bite irresistibly delicious.

Tips

• Wafers: Use plain, unflavored wafers for the best results. The cream filling is rich, so you want a neutral, crispy base.
• Cream Consistency: If the cream mixture is too thick, add a tiny bit of milk to loosen it up slightly for easier spreading.
• Pressing the Cake: Pressing the cake ensures that it holds together well, so don’t skip this step for optimal texture.
• Chill Time: Let the cake sit for a minimum of 2 hours, but for a firmer texture, letting it rest overnight in the fridge is ideal.

Variations and Substitutions

• Flavored Wafer Cakes: If you want a twist, you can experiment with flavored wafers, such as chocolate or vanilla, to complement the cream filling.
• Add-ins: Feel free to add crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or even chocolate chips between the layers for extra flavor and texture.
• Substitute for Butter: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, you can use margarine or coconut oil in place of butter.

FAQs

• Can I use regular sweetened condensed milk instead of cooked condensed milk? While cooked condensed milk gives the cake its signature caramel-like flavor, you can use regular sweetened condensed milk in a pinch. However, the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
• Can I make the cake in advance? Yes! This cake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It actually gets better after resting for a while, as the layers have more time to absorb the cream.
• Is it okay to use a different press method? If you don’t have a cutting board or a heavy press, you can use anything that provides weight, like a heavy book, to help compact the layers.

Serving Suggestions

• Tea Time: Serve slices of this cake with a cup of hot tea or coffee for an elegant treat during your afternoon tea.
• Festive Occasions: This cake makes a great addition to holiday spreads, family gatherings, or birthday celebrations.
• With Fruit: Pair this rich dessert with fresh fruit, such as berries, for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Enjoy your Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche – a decadent treat that’s simple to prepare but full of flavor!