Introduction and Ingredient Sourcing in London
What is a Swedish Princess Cake?
The Swedish Princess Cake, or Prinsesstårta, is a visually stunning and delicious layered dessert beloved across Scandinavia. Known for its vibrant green marzipan covering, the cake features layers of light sponge, fruit jam, rich custard, and fluffy whipped cream, all shaped into a perfect dome. Topped with a delicate marzipan rose, it’s a showstopper on any occasion.
A Londoner's Guide to Making Prinsesstårta
Creating this Nordic masterpiece in London is entirely achievable, even if some ingredients seem elusive. Whether you're a seasoned baker or an enthusiastic beginner, we’ll guide you through sourcing, pricing, and the essential steps.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need and Where to Find It
Here’s a list of the core ingredients, focusing on nut-free and alcohol-free options:
Sponge Cake Base:
Pre-made options: Available in Waitrose or Sainsbury’s for £2.50-£3.
DIY: Plain flour, eggs, sugar, and baking powder, costing approximately £5.
Raspberry Jam:
Organic options (e.g., Bonne Maman) cost around £3.50.
Homemade alternative: Fresh raspberries from Borough Market (£4 for 500g).
Vanilla Custard:
Ready-made (Ambrosia) for £1.80, or DIY using milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla pods (£6.50).
Whipping Cream:
Double cream (Tesco or Aldi) priced at £1.50 for 300ml.
Green Marzipan:
Pre-coloured marzipan (Dr. Oetker, £3.50) or plain marzipan (£3) with green gel food colouring (£2).
Gelatine (Optional):
For stabilising whipped cream: Available at Morrisons for £2.50.
Decorative Marzipan Rose:
Ready-made roses (£2.50 at cake shops) or crafted using marzipan scraps.
Where to Shop in London
Finding authentic Swedish cake ingredients in London is easier than you’d think. Here’s a handy list:
ScandiKitchen (Great Titchfield Street):
Your one-stop shop for Scandinavian ingredients, including authentic marzipan and ready-made lagkagebunde (Danish-style sponge layers).
Speciality Stores:
Borough Market for fresh, high-quality produce.
Whole Foods for organic and premium ingredients.
Supermarkets:
Tesco, Waitrose, and Sainsbury’s offer budget-friendly alternatives for most items.
Online Options:
Ocado delivers Swedish brands like Odense Marzipan.
Amazon UK stocks gel food colouring kits and baking accessories.
Budget Tips for UK Home Bakers
While Swedish Princess Cake may seem luxurious, you can make budget-friendly choices without compromising on taste:
Opt for Store Brands:
Aldi’s double cream (£1.25) and own-brand custard (£1) work well.
DIY Substitutes:
Create custard and sponge at home for cost savings.
Skip the Frills:
A homemade marzipan dome is a fun challenge and more economical than pre-rolled versions.
Reusable Equipment:
Invest in a springform cake tin (£10 on Amazon) and reuse it for other recipes.
Dietary Adaptations: Inclusive Baking in London
To accommodate various dietary needs:
Nut-Free Version:
Replace marzipan with fondant (available at cake stores or Tesco for £3.50).
Gluten-Free Cake:
Use gluten-free flour blends (Doves Farm, £3.20 at Sainsbury’s).
Plant-Based Twist:
Swap eggs for aquafaba and use coconut cream instead of dairy cream.
With these preparations and options, you're ready to move on to the fun part – making the cake!
Step-by-Step Recipe for Swedish Princess Cake
Making a Swedish Princess Cake at home may seem daunting at first, but with a bit of patience and planning, you can create this iconic dessert right in your London kitchen. This step-by-step recipe ensures no detail is overlooked, guiding you through each layer and the final assembly.
Preparing the Sponge Cake Base
The sponge cake forms the foundation of the Princess Cake. Here’s how to make it from scratch or with pre-made options.
Ingredients (for a 3-layer cake):
6 large eggs
200g caster sugar
200g plain flour, sifted
1 tsp baking powder
50g unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake tins.
Whisk the Eggs and Sugar:
In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale, thick, and tripled in volume. This can take 8–10 minutes with an electric mixer.
Fold in Dry Ingredients:
Sift the flour and baking powder into the egg mixture, folding gently with a spatula to retain airiness.
Incorporate Butter:
Mix a small portion of the batter with the melted butter to lighten it, then fold it back into the main mixture.
Bake:
Divide the batter evenly between the tins and bake for 20–25 minutes. The sponges are ready when a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Cool:
Allow the cakes to cool in the tins for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Vanilla Custard Filling
The custard adds a creamy, luscious layer to the cake. If you're making it from scratch, follow these steps.
Ingredients:
500ml whole milk
4 large egg yolks
100g caster sugar
30g cornflour
1 vanilla pod or 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Heat the Milk:
In a saucepan, heat the milk with the split vanilla pod until it just starts to simmer. Remove from heat and let the vanilla infuse.
Mix the Egg Yolks:
In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornflour until smooth.
Combine and Cook:
Gradually pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Return to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened.
Chill:
Strain the custard into a bowl, cover with cling film (to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate until needed.
Whipping the Cream
Whipped cream is essential for the cake’s fluffy, dome-like appearance.
Ingredients:
500ml double cream
2 tbsp icing sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Chill the Bowl:
For best results, chill your mixing bowl and whisk attachment in the fridge for 15 minutes.
Whip the Cream:
Combine cream, sugar, and vanilla in the bowl. Whisk until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
Assembling the Layers
With your components ready, it’s time to build the cake.
Step-by-Step Assembly:
Layer 1: Sponge and Jam:
Place one sponge layer on a cake board. Spread an even layer of raspberry jam.
Layer 2: Custard:
Add a generous layer of chilled custard over the jam. Smooth it out with an offset spatula.
Layer 3: Whipped Cream:
Stack the second sponge layer and cover it with whipped cream. Reserve enough cream to cover the entire cake later.
Shape the Dome:
Place the final sponge layer on top. Use the remaining whipped cream to create a dome shape, smoothing it carefully.
Covering with Marzipan
The marzipan layer is the hallmark of a Princess Cake, giving it its distinct green colour and smooth texture.
Ingredients:
500g green marzipan
Cornflour for rolling
Pink marzipan for the rose (optional)
Instructions:
Roll Out the Marzipan:
Dust your work surface with cornflour. Roll the marzipan into a thin circle, large enough to cover the cake.
Drape the Cake:
Carefully lift the marzipan using a rolling pin and drape it over the cake. Smooth it down gently, trimming any excess at the base.
Decorate:
Add a pink marzipan rose or sprinkle icing sugar for a professional touch.
Common Troubleshooting Tips
Cracked Marzipan:
If the marzipan cracks, gently press the edges together and smooth with your fingers.
Uneven Dome:
Use a serrated knife to shave down any uneven sponge before assembling.
Custard Too Runny:
If your custard doesn’t set properly, try adding a teaspoon of gelatine dissolved in water.
Ready for the Final Touches
Your Swedish Princess Cake is now assembled, but it’s not done yet! In Part 3, we’ll discuss creative decorating ideas, storage tips, and serving suggestions to make your creation truly stand out. Stay tuned!
Decorating, Storing, and Serving Your Swedish Princess Cake
Now that your Swedish Princess Cake is assembled, it’s time to focus on the finishing touches, storage tips, and serving suggestions to make it the star of any occasion. This section will guide you through creative decorating ideas, practical storage solutions, and tips for serving it with flair.
Decorating Ideas: Taking Your Princess Cake to the Next Level
While the traditional Swedish Princess Cake is covered in smooth green marzipan with a marzipan rose on top, you can add your own flair to make it truly unique. Here are some decorating ideas to inspire you:
Classic Look:
Place a single pink or red marzipan rose in the centre.
Dust the entire cake lightly with icing sugar for a frosty finish.
Use a toothpick to create gentle scoring lines on the marzipan for a quilted effect.
Elegant Touches:
Add gold leaf or edible gold paint to accentuate the edges of the rose or base of the cake.
Use edible pearls or silver dragees for a luxurious feel.
Seasonal Themes:
For Christmas, swap the green marzipan for red and top with white snowflake decorations.
For spring, use pastel-coloured marzipan and add edible flowers like pansies or violets.
Modern Designs:
Cover the cake in white marzipan and paint abstract designs using edible gel colours.
Use stencils to create intricate patterns with cocoa powder or edible glitter.
Kid-Friendly Versions:
Swap the marzipan for fondant in bright colours and add playful decorations like cartoon characters or sprinkles.
Storing Your Swedish Princess Cake
Proper storage is crucial to preserve the cake’s freshness and appearance, especially if you’re preparing it in advance.
Refrigeration:
Cover the cake loosely with cling film or store it in a cake dome.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days. The marzipan helps seal in moisture, but prolonged storage can affect the texture.
Freezing:
If you need to make the cake ahead of time, freeze it without the marzipan layer.
Wrap the assembled cake (sponge, jam, custard, and cream) tightly in cling film and then in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before covering with marzipan.
Transporting:
Use a sturdy cake box and refrigerate the cake before transporting to keep it firm.
For long journeys, consider assembling the cake on-site to avoid damage.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoying the Perfect Slice
A Swedish Princess Cake is not just a dessert—it’s an experience. Here’s how to serve it for maximum impact:
Portioning:
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to cut clean slices. Wipe the blade between cuts for neat edges.
For a traditional 8-inch cake, aim for 10–12 slices.
Accompaniments:
Serve with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a drizzle of berry coulis.
Pair with Swedish coffee (kaffe) for a truly authentic fika moment.
Presentation:
Place each slice on a dessert plate and garnish with fresh raspberries or a small mint sprig.
Arrange slices on a tiered stand for an elegant afternoon tea setting.
Troubleshooting Common Serving Challenges
Cake Too Soft:
Chill the cake for 30 minutes before slicing to firm up the layers.
Marzipan Sticking to the Knife:
Lightly dust the blade with icing sugar before cutting.
Layers Shifting:
Use skewers to stabilise the cake during assembly, removing them before serving.
Creating the Ultimate Swedish Experience
To elevate the experience of serving your Princess Cake, consider pairing it with Swedish-themed elements:
Table Setting:
Use a blue and yellow colour scheme, inspired by the Swedish flag.
Add Scandinavian touches like wooden serving boards or simple floral arrangements.
Music:
Play traditional Swedish folk music or contemporary Scandinavian tunes to set the mood.
Drinks:
Pair the cake with elderflower cordial, a popular Swedish beverage.
For tea enthusiasts, offer a selection of herbal teas like chamomile or rooibos.
Adapting for Special Occasions
A Swedish Princess Cake can be adapted for various events, making it a versatile choice for celebrations:
Birthdays:
Write a personalised message on the marzipan using edible ink pens or royal icing.
Weddings:
Create a tiered version of the cake with alternating marzipan colours for a unique wedding dessert.
Holidays:
Use festive colours and decorations, like red and white for Christmas or pastels for Easter.
Why Make It at Home?
While Swedish Princess Cakes are available at speciality bakeries in London like ScandiKitchen, making it at home allows you to:
Customise ingredients to your taste or dietary needs.
Save on costs while enjoying the satisfaction of creating a stunning dessert from scratch.
Share a memorable baking experience with loved ones.
With these decorating ideas, storage tips, and serving suggestions, your homemade Swedish Princess Cake is ready to impress. Whether it’s a cosy fika at home or a grand celebration, this cake is sure to steal the show. Enjoy every bite!
Where Can You Buy a Swedish Princess Cake in London
"Pearls & Crumbs" Can Make the Best Swedish Princess Cakes in London, UK
When it comes to crafting the iconic Swedish Princess Cake, few can rival the expertise, artistry, and attention to detail offered by Pearls & Crumbs. Located in the heart of West London, Pearls & Crumbs has established itself as a go-to destination for luxury bespoke cakes that combine exceptional taste with visual perfection. This article explores how Pearls & Crumbs excels in creating this Nordic masterpiece, making it the ultimate choice for anyone seeking Swedish Princess Cakes in London.
About Pearls & Crumbs: The Art of Bespoke Cake Making
Pearls & Crumbs isn’t just a cake shop—it’s an experience. Founded by the talented Usba Adil, the brand specialises in handcrafted bespoke cakes that cater to a variety of occasions, including weddings, birthdays, baby showers, and more. Every cake is meticulously designed to reflect the client’s vision, making each creation a true work of art.
Craftsmanship and Quality:
The cakes are made entirely from scratch using premium ingredients. Whether it’s traditional recipes or contemporary creations, each bite is crafted to be a delightful sensory experience.
Attention to detail is evident in every step, from flavour balance to intricate decorations.
Bespoke Personalisation:
Pearls & Crumbs works closely with clients to tailor cakes to their specific needs. For Swedish Princess Cakes, this means customising the marzipan colour, layering options, and decorative elements to suit the occasion and personal preferences.
Commitment to Dietary Inclusivity:
The shop offers cakes catering to a wide range of dietary requirements, including vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their creations.
Why Pearls & Crumbs Excels at Swedish Princess Cakes
The Swedish Princess Cake (Prinsesstårta) is a challenging dessert to perfect, but Pearls & Crumbs thrives on such challenges. Here’s why their rendition of this Scandinavian classic stands out:
Expertise in Layered Cakes:
Swedish Princess Cakes are defined by their delicate layers of sponge, jam, custard, whipped cream, and marzipan. Pearls & Crumbs has mastered the art of creating perfectly proportioned layers that maintain structural integrity while delivering a harmonious blend of flavours.
Flavour Innovation:
While the traditional version features vanilla sponge and raspberry jam, Pearls & Crumbs offers creative variations, such as elderflower-infused custard or a hint of citrus in the sponge, to elevate the classic taste.
Customised Decorations:
The traditional green marzipan dome with a pink rose is iconic, but Pearls & Crumbs adds a modern twist with options like pastel ombre domes, edible gold accents, or intricate stencilled designs.
Attention to Detail:
From achieving the perfect dome shape to ensuring the marzipan is smooth and flawless, Pearls & Crumbs spares no effort in crafting a cake that looks as good as it tastes.
The Process: How Pearls & Crumbs Brings Swedish Princess Cakes to Life
Creating a Swedish Princess Cake is a meticulous process, and Pearls & Crumbs approaches it with the precision and artistry of a true cake design professional.
Initial Consultation:
Clients discuss their preferences, including flavour profiles, dietary restrictions, and design ideas. For special events, themes and colour schemes are taken into account.
Ingredient Sourcing:
Only the finest ingredients are used. For example, high-quality marzipan is sourced to ensure the perfect texture and flavour, while fresh berries are used for the jam.
Layer Preparation:
The sponge is baked to a light and airy consistency, while the custard is prepared with a creamy, velvety texture. Whipped cream is stabilised to hold the cake’s iconic dome shape.
Assembly and Design:
The cake is carefully assembled layer by layer, ensuring precision at every step. The final touch involves covering the cake in marzipan and adding decorative elements like marzipan roses or edible gold.
Delivery or Pick-Up:
The cake is securely packaged to preserve its structure and beauty, with delivery options available for added convenience.
Unique Features Offered by Pearls & Crumbs
Customisation Options:
Clients can choose from a variety of flavours, colours, and decorative themes. For instance, a Swedish Princess Cake for a wedding might feature a white marzipan dome with intricate lace patterns, while a birthday version could include playful pastel hues.
Themed Cakes:
Pearls & Crumbs excels at incorporating themes into their cakes. For example, a Swedish-inspired celebration could include a Princess Cake alongside complementary desserts like cinnamon buns or almond tarts.
Collaborative Design:
Clients are encouraged to share their ideas, mood boards, or Pinterest inspirations. Pearls & Crumbs transforms these ideas into bespoke creations that exceed expectations.
Dietary Inclusivity:
Nut-free marzipan alternatives and plant-based options are available, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy the cake.
Why Choose Pearls & Crumbs for Your Swedish Princess Cake?
Reputation for Excellence:
Testimonials from satisfied clients highlight the brand’s ability to deliver cakes that are both stunning and delicious.
Local Expertise:
As a London-based cake shop, Pearls & Crumbs understands the preferences and expectations of local customers, tailoring their offerings accordingly.
Convenient Service:
Located in West London, the shop is easily accessible, and delivery services make it convenient for clients across the city.
Passion and Creativity:
Usba Adil’s dedication to her craft shines through in every creation, making Pearls & Crumbs a trusted name for bespoke cakes.
Elevating Your Celebration with Pearls & Crumbs
A Swedish Princess Cake from Pearls & Crumbs isn’t just a dessert—it’s a centrepiece that adds elegance and joy to any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a wedding, birthday, or themed gathering, their expertise ensures a cake that’s as memorable as the event itself.
If you’re in London and dreaming of the perfect Swedish Princess Cake, Pearls & Crumbs is the destination that brings your vision to life. From flavour to design, every aspect is crafted with love, precision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
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