Kiev Cake Recipe (Kievsky Cake) Recipe

If you’re ready to fall in love with a truly iconic dessert, this Kiev Cake Recipe (Kievsky Cake) is your dream come true. With airy sponge layers, divine crisp meringue, luscious apricot syrup, and silky frosting, every bite is a glorious harmony of textures and flavors. This cake isn’t just a treat – it’s a celebration, perfect for special gatherings or simply when you want to impress with Ukrainian confectionery magic!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Though the Kiev Cake Recipe (Kievsky Cake) may look luxurious, its ingredients are refreshingly simple and easy to find. Each one plays an essential role: from the pillowy sponge and featherlight meringue to that bright burst of tangy apricot – it’s all about balancing taste and texture to create pure bliss.

• Flour (1 cup): For a light and tender sponge – choose all-purpose for consistent structure.
• Eggs, separated (8): The foundation of the sponge; separating them guarantees peak volume and delicate crumb.
• Granulated Sugar (total 2⅓ cups): Essential for sweetness and stability in both cake and meringue.
• Pure Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds a fragrant, warm note that elevates the sponge and ties flavors together.
• Egg Whites (6, room temperature): Key for the meringue’s cloud-like lift and crispy texture.
• Unsalted Butter (1 tbsp): Just a touch to brush onto parchment, making unmolding the meringue a breeze.
• Apricot Halves in Light Syrup (15 oz can): For a tart-sweet puree and syrup that keeps the cake moist and vibrant.
• Water (¼ cup): Helps make the soaking syrup perfectly moistening without being soggy.
• Lemon Juice (1 tsp): Lends a zesty freshness to balance the apricot’s sweetness.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: See the Russian Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe – it adds rich tang and creamy decadence to every bite.

How to Make Kiev Cake Recipe (Kievsky Cake)

Step 1: Prepare the Meringue (Beze)

Begin by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C) and lining your 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper. A light brush of melted butter will keep the meringue from sticking. Whip those egg whites and sugar in a stand mixer on high speed for about 6 minutes, until you achieve stiff, glossy peaks that won’t slide if you tilt the bowl. Spread that glorious fluff evenly in the pan and bake for 4 hours and 10 minutes. Yes – a slow, low bake gives the meringue its signature crackly crust and chewy center. Once baked, peel off the parchment and let it cool completely on a tea towel. For the best texture, cover it with another tea towel if leaving overnight!

Step 2: Make the Sponge Cake (Biskvit)

Crank your oven up to 350°F (175°C) and get another 9×13-inch pan ready with parchment. In one bowl, beat the yolks, sugar, and vanilla until thick and pale. Sift in the flour gradually, stirring to remove lumps. In a separate, squeaky-clean bowl, whip those egg whites until they’re tripled in size and beautifully foamy. Now, gently fold the yolk mixture into the whites so you don’t lose any precious airiness. Pour this light-as-a-feather batter into your pan and bake for about 22 minutes, until golden and springy. Out of the oven, flip the cake onto a clean surface, peel off the paper, and trim the edges so your layers are neat and even. Let it cool to room temp before moving forward.

Step 3: Prepare the Apricot Syrup and Puree

Drain your canned apricots, saving every drop of that syrup. Blitz the fruit into a silky puree using a blender or immersion blender. Now, take the reserved syrup, add water, lemon juice, and sugar, then stir until the sugar dissolves completely. This sweet, tangy syrup will infuse the cake with moisture and a burst of fruitiness, keeping every bite irresistible.

Step 4: Assemble the Kiev Cake Recipe (Kievsky Cake)

Using a serrated knife, carefully split the sponge cake horizontally into two equal layers. Lay the first one on your prettiest serving dish, cut side up to soak up extra syrup. Brush half the apricot syrup over it, then lavish on half the apricot puree. Add about a quarter of your frosting for a rich, creamy layer. Next, gently position the meringue on top – trim if you need to, then save any crunchy meringue crumbs for later. Top the meringue with another layer of frosting before placing your second cake layer on top. Brush on the remaining syrup and finish with the rest of the puree. Ice the entire cake – top and sides – with the remaining frosting, then shower meringue crumbs all over for that traditional Kiev flair. Refrigerate until you’re ready to slice and serve!

How to Serve Kiev Cake Recipe (Kievsky Cake)

Garnishes

The classic garnish for Kiev Cake is a generous sprinkle of meringue crumbs, which gives it both a whimsical look and irresistible crunch. For truly elegant presentation, a few fresh apricot slices or a dusting of powdered sugar make lovely finishing touches. A handful of toasted nuts or curls of white chocolate can bring extra flair, especially for celebrations.

Side Dishes

Since this showstopper is quite rich and sweet, keep side dishes light and simple. A fresh fruit platter (think tart berries or citrus), a scoop of unsweetened whipped cream, or even a cup of strong black tea or coffee are perfect companions. These sides cleanse the palate and let the flavors of the Kiev Cake Recipe (Kievsky Cake) truly shine.

Creative Ways to Present

Kiev Cake loves a bit of drama! Try slicing it into small squares for a dessert tray, layering individual portions in parfait glasses for a modern twist, or cutting mini rounds with a biscuit cutter for high tea. Edible flowers or metallic dragees can push your presentation over the top at parties or special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Kiev Cake Recipe (Kievsky Cake) stores beautifully in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a cake dome to keep in the moisture and protect those signature layers from mingling with fridge odors. Leftovers will stay luscious for up to 3 days, and the flavors actually deepen and meld when given a day to rest.

Freezing

If you want to get ahead, freeze individual slices or even a whole (unfrosted) cake layer wrapped carefully in plastic and then foil. The meringue will stay crisp if well-sealed; just thaw overnight in the fridge before coming to room temp, then frost and assemble as usual. Frosted cake can be frozen, too, but may lose some crispness – still wonderfully tasty!

Reheating

No actual reheating is needed for Kiev Cake Recipe (Kievsky Cake) since it’s served chilled or at room temperature. If your refrigerated cake feels too firm, simply let it sit on the counter for 20 to 30 minutes before serving for maximum creaminess in the frosting and a softer bite throughout.

FAQs

What can I substitute for apricots in the syrup?

If you can’t find canned apricots, canned peaches or even plums work beautifully, offering a similar juicy tang. Just adjust sugar levels to taste, and blend until smooth for the puree.

Can I make Kiev Cake Recipe (Kievsky Cake) gluten free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a high-quality gluten-free blend that’s meant for cakes and bakes. Double-check your other ingredients, and you’re all set for a delightful, gluten-free version.

How do I prevent my meringue from turning soggy?

Meringue stays crispy with a long, low bake and by storing it in a cool, dry place until assembly. After adding the frosting and cake layers, serving the Kiev Cake Recipe (Kievsky Cake) within a day ensures the ideal textural contrast.

Do I have to use Russian cream cheese frosting?

While the classic recipe uses that tangy, rich frosting for authenticity, you could swap in a simple vanilla buttercream or even whipped mascarpone if preferred. Each will change the flavor slightly but still make a luscious cake.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes! In fact, Kiev Cake Recipe (Kievsky Cake) is often even better after a night in the fridge. It gives the layers time to set, soak, and come together, turning every slice into the best possible version of itself.

Final Thoughts

This Kiev Cake Recipe (Kievsky Cake) is a true labor of love, but the rewarding flavors and impressive presentation are so worth it. Whether you grew up with it or you’re discovering it for the first time, you’ll adore sharing this beauty with friends and family. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite at your next gathering!

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