How to Make Princess Cake (with Recipe)

Welcome to the world of delectable confections, where elegance meets sweetness in the form of a beloved dessert known as the Princess Cake. Originating from Sweden, this enchanting treat has captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the globe. With its delicate layers of sponge cake, luscious whipped cream, and fruity filling, all enrobed in a smooth, vibrant marzipan coating, the Princess Cake is a true masterpiece of culinary art. Whether served at joyous celebrations, afternoon teas, or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, this regal delicacy continues to reign as a timeless symbol of refinement and indulgence in the world of desserts. Prepare to embark on a delightful journey into the enchanting world of the Princess Cake, where every bite is fit for royalty.

What is Princess Cake?

Princess Cake, also known as “Prinsesstårta” in Swedish, is a famous and traditional Swedish dessert that has gained popularity worldwide. It is an exquisite layer cake that embodies elegance, sophistication, and deliciousness. The cake is typically composed of several key elements:

Sponge Cake: The base layer is made from a light and airy sponge cake, which provides a soft foundation for the other layers.
Whipped Cream: A generous layer of vanilla-flavored whipped cream is spread over the sponge cake, adding a creamy and luxurious texture to the cake.
Raspberry or Strawberry Jam: A thin layer of raspberry or strawberry jam is often added on top of the whipped cream, contributing a fruity and slightly tangy element.

Marzipan Coating: The entire cake is carefully enveloped in a smooth, pastel-colored marzipan shell, traditionally tinted pale green. The marzipan gives the Princess Cake its iconic dome-shaped appearance.
Marzipan Rose: As a final touch, a delicate marzipan rose is often placed on the top of the cake, serving as a charming decoration and a symbol of elegance.

The Princess Cake is typically served on special occasions, such as birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries, and is an integral part of Swedish culture and culinary heritage. Its harmonious blend of flavors and its visually stunning presentation make it a truly regal dessert, fit for a princess—or anyone with a love for exceptional confections.

Why you will love Princess Cake?

There are several reasons why you’ll undoubtedly fall in love with Princess Cake:

Divine Taste: The Princess Cake is a heavenly combination of soft sponge cake, velvety whipped cream, and fruity jam, creating a delightful symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds.
Rich Tradition: This dessert has a rich cultural heritage, originating from Sweden and cherished by generations. Its history and significance add an extra layer of appreciation when enjoying the cake.

Aesthetically Pleasing: The Princess Cake’s elegant appearance is captivating, with its dome-shaped marzipan coating and a dainty marzipan rose on top. It’s as beautiful to behold as it is delicious to eat.
Celebration Cake: This cake is often associated with joyous occasions, making it a delightful treat to share and celebrate special moments with family and friends.
Versatility: While the traditional recipe is beloved, Princess Cake offers room for personalization. You can experiment with different fillings, colors, and decorations to tailor it to your preferences.

Light and Refreshing: Despite its luxurious taste, the Princess Cake is surprisingly light and refreshing, making it a delightful dessert even after a hearty meal.
Nostalgia: For those with fond memories of childhood celebrations or Swedish roots, enjoying this cake can evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth.
Regal Indulgence: Eating a Princess Cake can make you feel like royalty, experiencing the sweetness and elegance of a dessert fit for a king or queen.

Conversation Starter: Serving a Princess Cake at gatherings often sparks curiosity and admiration, making it a wonderful conversation starter among guests.
Culinary Adventure: Exploring the world of Princess Cake introduces you to a delightful culinary adventure, one that showcases the artistry and creativity of pastry-making.

In conclusion, the Princess Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that combines taste, aesthetics, tradition, and joy. Once you’ve had a bite, it’s hard not to love this regal and enchanting treat.

How to decorate Princess Cake

Decorating a Princess Cake is a delightful and creative process, and the final result is what makes this dessert truly special. Here’s a step-by-step guide to decorating a classic Princess Cake with the traditional marzipan coating and marzipan rose:

Ingredients for Decoration:

14 ounces (400g) marzipan

Green food coloring (gel or paste is preferable for vibrant colors)
Pink or red food coloring
Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)

Tools for Decoration:

Rolling pin
Parchment paper or a clean, flat surface for rolling
Small paintbrush (used solely for food purposes)

Optional: Plastic wrap or gloves to avoid staining your hands with food coloring

Decoration Steps:

Prepare the Marzipan:
- Knead the marzipan slightly to make it pliable and easy to work with.
- Divide the marzipan into two portions: one larger portion for the coating and one smaller portion for the marzipan rose.
Color the Marzipan for Coating:
- Add a few drops of green food coloring to the larger portion of marzipan and knead it thoroughly until the color is evenly distributed. Aim for a pale green color, which is traditional for a Princess Cake, but you can adjust the shade to your preference.

Roll Out the Marzipan for Coating:
- Dust your rolling pin and a clean, flat surface with confectioners’ sugar to prevent sticking.
- Roll out the green marzipan into a thin, large circle that is wide enough to cover the entire cake, including the top and sides.

Drape the Coating over the Cake:
- Carefully lift the rolled-out marzipan using your rolling pin or by draping it over your hands.
- Gently place it over the chilled cake and carefully smooth it over the top and down the sides, ensuring the cake is completely covered. Trim off any excess marzipan from the bottom.

Shape the Marzipan Rose:
- Take the smaller portion of marzipan and add a few drops of pink or red food coloring. Knead it until the color is evenly distributed.
- Roll a small piece of the colored marzipan into a ball, then shape it into a cone to form the center of the rose.
- Roll out another piece of colored marzipan thinly and cut out five small circles. These will form the petals.
Assemble the Marzipan Rose:
- Place the cone-shaped center on top of the cake.
- Arrange the five petals around the center, slightly overlapping them, to create the rose.
Optional Dusting:
- If desired, lightly dust the entire cake with confectioners’ sugar for an elegant finish.

Once the cake is decorated, it’s ready to be served and admired. The marzipan coating not only adds a beautiful touch but also helps preserve the cake’s freshness. Your Princess Cake is now a true masterpiece, fit for any celebration or special gathering!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about Princess Cake:

What is the origin of Princess Cake?
- Princess Cake, or “Prinsesstårta,” originates from Sweden. It is believed to have been created in the early 20th century and was inspired by the French pastry, “Tarte à la Russe.”

Can I make a Princess Cake in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare a Princess Cake in advance. Store the finished cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 2-3 days.
Is there a gluten-free version of Princess Cake?
- Yes, you can make a gluten-free Princess Cake by substituting the all-purpose flour in the sponge cake recipe with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients used are also gluten-free.
Can I freeze a Princess Cake?
- While freezing the entire assembled cake is not recommended due to the whipped cream filling, you can freeze individual slices for up to a month. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

Can I use different fillings for the Princess Cake?
- Absolutely! While the traditional filling consists of whipped cream and raspberry (or strawberry) jam, you can get creative and use different fillings such as custard, lemon curd, or fresh fruit.
Can I use natural food coloring for the marzipan coating and rose?
- Yes, natural food coloring options are available and can be used to color the marzipan. Look for plant-based or fruit-based food coloring for a natural alternative.

Troubleshooting:

The marzipan coating is cracking when I try to cover the cake. What should I do?
- If the marzipan is cracking, it might be too dry or rolled out too thin. To fix this, try kneading the marzipan again to make it more pliable. If it’s too thin, you can add more marzipan to cover the cake properly.

My marzipan rose is not holding its shape. How can I make it better?
- If the marzipan rose is not holding its shape, it might be too soft. You can try refrigerating the shaped petals and center for a few minutes before assembling the rose to firm them up.
My whipped cream filling is too runny. What did I do wrong?
- For a stable whipped cream filling, ensure that your heavy whipping cream is cold before whipping. Also, adding a little cornstarch or gelatin while whipping can help stabilize the cream and prevent it from becoming too runny.
My cake is sinking in the middle. How can I avoid this?
- A sinking cake might be due to overbeating the eggs or overmixing the batter. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid overworking the batter to prevent sinking in the middle.

The marzipan coating is too sticky. How can I fix it?
- If the marzipan is too sticky to work with, dust your hands, rolling pin, and surface with confectioners’ sugar. This will prevent sticking and make it easier to handle.

With these FAQs and troubleshooting tips, you’ll be better prepared to create a stunning and delicious Princess Cake, ensuring a delightful experience for you and your guests.

How to serve/store Princess Cake:

Serving Princess Cake is a delightful experience, and it’s best enjoyed on special occasions or as a centerpiece dessert for a celebration. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to serve this regal confection:

Preparation: Before serving, ensure that the Princess Cake is properly chilled in the refrigerator. The cake needs time to set and meld the flavors together, making it easier to slice and serve.
Remove from Refrigerator: Take the Princess Cake out of the refrigerator about 15 to 30 minutes before serving. Allowing it to sit at room temperature for a short while helps to bring out the flavors and ensures the marzipan coating softens slightly for easy slicing.

Slice the Cake: Use a sharp knife to cut the cake into equal slices. The cake should yield around 8 to 12 slices, depending on the size and shape you prefer.
Presentation: Place each slice on a dessert plate or cake stand. You can dust a little confectioners’ sugar over the top of each slice for an elegant finishing touch.
Serve with Style: Princess Cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, as its light and refreshing flavors complement the warm beverages. You can also serve it with a dollop of extra whipped cream or a side of fresh berries for added indulgence.

Enjoy and Share: Invite your guests to indulge in this royal treat and share the story behind the Princess Cake’s origin and significance. It’s a great conversation piece, and the intricate marzipan design is sure to impress everyone.
Storage: If there are any leftovers (which might be unlikely!), be sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake will keep well for a few days, allowing you to savor its deliciousness over time.

Remember, the Princess Cake is not only about its taste but also about the experience of sharing and celebrating special moments with loved ones. Enjoy the joyous occasion while savoring the flavors of this exquisite dessert fit for royalty!

Sure! Based on the composition and quantities mentioned earlier, here’s a detailed formula for making a classic Princess Cake:

Princess Cake Recipe

Ingredients

Sponge Cake:

4 large eggs

1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whipped Cream Filling:

2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Raspberry (or Strawberry) Jam Filling:

1/2 cup (150g) raspberry or strawberry jam (seedless or strained if desired)

Marzipan Coating:

14 ounces (400g) marzipan
Green food coloring (gel or paste is preferable for vibrant colors)

Marzipan Rose:

A small amount of marzipan (taken from the quantity used for the coating)
Pink or red food coloring

Optional Garnish:

Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting the finished cake

Instructions:

Sponge Cake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into the egg mixture. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until well combined.
Stir in the vanilla extract.

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Whipped Cream Filling:

In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.
Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.

Marzipan Coating:

Knead the marzipan slightly to make it pliable.
Divide the marzipan into two portions: one larger portion for the coating and one smaller portion for the marzipan rose.

Add a few drops of green food coloring to the larger portion of marzipan and knead it until the color is evenly distributed. Aim for a pale green color, which is traditional for a Princess Cake, but you can adjust the shade to your preference.

Marzipan Rose:

Take the smaller portion of marzipan and add a few drops of pink or red food coloring. Knead it until the color is evenly distributed.

Roll a small piece of the colored marzipan into a ball, then shape it into a cone to form the center of the rose.
Roll out another piece of colored marzipan thinly and cut out five small circles. These will form the petals.
Place the cone-shaped center on top of the cake.

Arrange the five petals around the center, slightly overlapping them, to create the rose.

Assembly:

Once the cake has cooled completely, use a sharp knife to slice it horizontally into three even layers.

Place the bottom layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
Spread a generous layer of the whipped cream filling on top of the first layer.
Spread the raspberry (or strawberry) jam on top of the whipped cream.

Place the second layer of cake on top and repeat steps 3 and 4.
Place the final layer of cake on top.
Frost the entire cake, including the top and sides, with the green marzipan coating.

Decorate the cake with the marzipan rose on top.

Optional Garnish:

If desired, lightly dust the entire cake with confectioners’ sugar for an elegant finish.

Now, your delicious and visually stunning Princess Cake is ready to be served and enjoyed!

Nutrition information:

The nutritional information for a Princess Cake can vary depending on the specific recipe and the quantities of ingredients used. Here is a general overview of the approximate nutritional values for a standard-sized slice of Princess Cake (approximately 1/12th of an 8-inch cake):

Calories: Around 400-500 kcal

Total Fat: Approximately 20-30g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 10-15g
Cholesterol: Around 100-150mg
Sodium: Approximately 100-200mg
Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
- Sugars: Around 30-40g
Protein: Approximately 5-7g

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used in the recipe. The marzipan coating and whipped cream filling contribute to the higher fat content, while the sponge cake and jam provide carbohydrates and sugars.

As the Princess Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert, it is typically enjoyed on special occasions and in moderation. If you have dietary restrictions or specific health concerns, it’s advisable to consult a nutritionist or healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Happy baking!