Crinkle Cake

Once again, TikTok has introduced us to a fabulous new treat. When I came across a video for this crinkled phyllo dough cake, I instantly added it to my saved recipes. It looked not only delicious but also incredibly simple. If you break it down, it’s more of a custard pastry than a cake, with folded phyllo dough as the base. This dessert is popular in Eastern Europe and is now gaining global recognition, thanks to TikTok. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crinkle Cake is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The crispiness of the phyllo dough pairs beautifully with the creamy custard filling, creating a dessert that feels both luxurious and comforting. Plus, it’s visually impressive yet simple enough for even novice bakers to tackle.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Medium-sized bowl
• Whisk
• Small saucepan
• Oven

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 (1 lb) box phyllo dough, thawed
• 1 cup butter, melted
• 1 cup milk
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 teaspoon cardamom

For the Syrup

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Pick up two sheets of phyllo dough at a time and crinkle them in accordion folds. Place the folded dough into the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process until all the dough is used, ensuring the folds are evenly spaced.
3. Bake the folded dough for 10 minutes.
4. Remove the dough from the oven and drizzle melted butter over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes.
5. While the dough bakes, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, almond extract, and cardamom in a medium-sized bowl. A bowl with a pour spout is ideal for this.
6. Remove the baked dough from the oven and evenly pour the custard mixture over the top.
7. Bake for an additional 30-35 minutes until golden and set.
8. During the final bake time, prepare the syrup. Add sugar and water to a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk frequently until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
9. Drizzle the syrup over the baked cake, then let it cool before slicing.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the phyllo dough is fully thawed before starting to prevent tearing.
• Use a bowl with a pour spout for easier distribution of the custard.
• Let the cake cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts.

Additional Tips or Variations

• For a citrus twist, add some orange or lemon zest to the custard.
• Sprinkle some chopped nuts, such as pistachios or almonds, on top for added texture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This cake is a delightful indulgence, so enjoy it as a special treat. The exact nutritional content may vary based on portion size and ingredient brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I prepare this cake in advance?
Yes, you can make the cake a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and drizzle the syrup just before serving for the best texture.

Can I use a different type of dough?
Phyllo dough gives the signature texture, but you could experiment with puff pastry for a different twist.

What if I don’t have cardamom?
You can substitute cardamom with cinnamon or nutmeg for a different but equally delicious flavor.

Conclusion

This Crinkle Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. Its unique texture and rich flavors will impress your guests and delight your taste buds. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out for you. I’d love to hear your experiences and any creative twists you add to the recipe!