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Flaky Napoleon Cake

Category: Sweet Treats and Baked Delights

Tender pastry layers and silky vanilla cream come together in this classic dessert. Topped with crumbled pastry bits.
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Mena
Updated on Wed, 21 May 2025 14:16:49 GMT
A layered dessert slice with vanilla cream on a wooden cake stand. Save
A layered dessert slice with vanilla cream on a wooden cake stand. | delishdocket.com

After lots of tries, I finally figured out that when those flaky layers and the soft cream meet up, you get such a tasty bite every time. I’ve got some tricks up my sleeve if you want to pull off this jaw-dropping treat yourself.

Dreamy Overnight

Let it chill all night, don't rush it. The pastry grabs that cream, and the taste gets way better.

Uniform Layers

Keep your dough the same thickness. Pull out something that’s the right size to shape every layer the same way.

Sweet Harmony

Ditch extra sugar or add more in your filling, whatever you like best. Go for the mix you love.

Get Ahead

This one’s awesome for planning before. The flavors only get better by tomorrow so it’s a hit at any get-together.

Stacked flaky cake topped with crumbs sits on a pedestal, a cut-out slice shows off creamy inside layers and a crisp shell. Save
Stacked flaky cake topped with crumbs sits on a pedestal, a cut-out slice shows off creamy inside layers and a crisp shell. | delishdocket.com

Chocolate Delight

Spread chocolate ganache between some layers. It turns out super decadent and extra bold.

Classy Flair

Dollop some whipped cream on top, maybe drizzle honey too. It looks fancier and tastes lovely.

Diet Friendly

Swap in gluten-free flour if you need. Fresh, high-quality stuff makes a big difference.

Cream Swaps

Use mascarpone or whipped cream for a different feel. Keeps it just as rich, but changes it up.

Lovely Finish

Add a scatter of edible blooms or a pop of citrus on top. Makes it totally party-worthy.

A crisp-topped layered pastry cake sits on a wooden stand with powdered sugar sprinkled on. Save
A crisp-topped layered pastry cake sits on a wooden stand with powdered sugar sprinkled on. | delishdocket.com

Tasty Sips

Pour up something sparkly or a sweet liqueur on the side. They go so well with the buttery vanilla notes.

Stack Choices

Pile on extra layers if you want it super fancy. Don’t have much time? Keep it simple and quick with less.

Story Time

It’s a favorite for parties in Russia, but the French name always brings a little mystery.

Crumb Finish

Sprinkle on fine crumbs at the end. It gives a nice bite and that pro-style shine.

Rolling’s Easy

Lay down parchment, roll on that. Layers lift and move way easier, and your space stays tidy.

A rustic wooden dish holds a slice with visible flaky layers, soft cream, and crumb topping. Save
A rustic wooden dish holds a slice with visible flaky layers, soft cream, and crumb topping. | delishdocket.com

Berry Burst

Spoon a little jam between the cream. It sneaks in tartness for a fun pop of flavor.

Artful Top

Save leftover scraps to cut or shape. Bake and add them up top for a unique look.

Warm Up

Let everything come to room temp first. Fixes dough texture and the cream mixes easier.

Serving Moment

Let it sit out a bit before slicing in. The cream softens up and the flavor gets even better.

Chill Storage

You can keep dough chilled for three days or freeze for a month. Thaw in the fridge, and you’re good to go.

One chunk has been taken from a crumb-coated layer cake on a stand, showing inside creamy layers. Save
One chunk has been taken from a crumb-coated layer cake on a stand, showing inside creamy layers. | delishdocket.com

Recipe FAQs

→ How far in advance can I prepare this?
You can prep the pastry dough a few days ahead if it's kept in the fridge. Once the cake is assembled, give it 3 hours to set.
→ Why does dough need to be cold?
Cold dough keeps the butter firm, making the layers nice and crisp. It’s also easier to roll out and work with when chilled.
→ What does tempering eggs mean?
It’s when you slowly mix warm milk into eggs to stop them from scrambling. This keeps your cream silky and lump-free.
→ How long will leftovers last?
Keep the cake in the fridge for up to 3 days. The longer it sits, the softer the layers get.
→ Is this dessert freezer-friendly?
Freezing isn’t advised as the cream and crust may lose their texture.

Classic Napoleon Cake

This dessert features thin pastry layers stacked with luscious vanilla-flavored cream. A delightful pick for any party.

Prep Time
90 min
Cook Time
90 min
Total Time
180 min
By: Mena

Category: Desserts & Baking

Skill Level: Advanced

Cuisine: Russian

Yield: 12 Servings (1 eight-inch round dessert)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 3½ sticks cold unsalted butter, diced.
02 A small pinch of salt.
03 5½ cups plain flour.
04 Two big eggs.
05 1½ tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.
06 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste.
07 ¾ cup of ice-cold water.
08 1 cup white sugar.
09 6 egg yolks from large eggs.
10 4 cups full-fat milk, split in half.
11 ⅔ cup all-purpose flour.
12 2 teaspoons of real vanilla paste.
13 1 cup soft unsalted butter.

Steps

Step 01

Blend butter, salt, and flour in a processor until sandy. Add vinegar, water, vanilla, and eggs, and stir lightly to combine.

Step 02

Shape the dough into 8 flattened rounds, wrap tightly, and chill for 2-3 hours.

Step 03

Roll each chilled disk thin, cut an 8-inch circle. Pierce with a fork and bake at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes.

Step 04

Beat sugar, yolks, a bit of milk, and flour together. Heat the rest of the milk separately, slowly add to mixture, and cook until creamy-thick.

Step 05

Mix in vanilla and butter, letting it cool completely before using.

Step 06

Stack pastry rounds with cream between each. Coat the sides and top with crumbs and cream.

Step 07

Let it rest in the fridge for at least 3 hours (overnight is fine) to soften before serving.

Notes

  1. You can make the dough early and keep it cold.
  2. Save leftover pastry to make crumbs for decorating.
  3. Needs chilling time so the layers blend better.

Required Tools

  • A food processor.
  • Rolling tool.
  • 8-inch circle mold or guide.
  • Oven trays.
  • Medium saucepan.

Allergy Information

Check every ingredient for allergens and consult a healthcare professional if unsure.
  • Eggs.
  • Dairy (milk, butter).
  • Wheat flour.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are for informational purposes and don't replace professional medical advice.
  • Calories: 776
  • Fats: 49 g
  • Carbs: 70 g
  • Proteins: 14 g