Shadlav cake (snack cake with chicken)

Ingredients

Cake Layers

150 grams (5.3 ounces) flour
0.25 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.5 teaspoon Provencal herbs
150 grams (5.3 ounces) buttermilk (or sour cream, sour milk)
1 large egg
1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil

Mayonnaise

2 egg yolks
2 teaspoons ready-made mustard
pinch of sugar
pinch of salt
200 milliliters (7 fl oz) refined olive or sunflower oil
2 teaspoons lemon juice (or apple or balsamic vinegar)

Filling

100 grams (3.5 ounces) coarse grated hard cheese
200 grams (7 ounces) baked chicken (or smoked chicken), diced
200 grams (7 ounces) black olives, sliced
2 tomatoes, diced

Covering

250 grams (8.8 ounces) cream cheese
100 grams (3.5 ounces) butter

Equipment

Mixing Bowls
Ensure you have a couple of different sized bowls for both wet and dry ingredients. Stainless steel bowls work best for stability.
Electric Mixer
A hand mixer or stand mixer will make whipping and combining ingredients a breeze, ensuring a smooth consistency.
Measuring Cups & Spoons
Accurate measurements are key to baking success. Use dry and liquid measuring tools accordingly.
Baking Pan
A round 16 cm (6.3 inch) diameter baking pan is essential for the cake layers. Make sure it’s well-greased or lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Ring Mold
This is used to assemble the cake layers and filling neatly. If you don't have one, a DIY version with aluminum foil will work!
Spatula
A flexible spatula helps in spreading batters and creams evenly, ensuring a smooth finish.

Instructions

Step 1

Ensure this delightful snack cake is the centerpiece of your table. The approximate weight of the finished cake is 1200 grams (42.30 ounces) and it has a diameter of 16 cm (6.3 inches).

Step 2

Preparation: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting, as this helps them combine more smoothly.

Step 3

Step 1: Mix all the liquid ingredients in one bowl. In a separate bowl, sift and mix all the dry ingredients. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring carefully until well combined. Do not overmix to avoid a dense cake.

Step 4

Step 2: Pour the batter into a greased and floured cake pan. Bake at 170-180°C (338 to 356°F) for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely before dividing it into three equal layers. For even layers, use a serrated knife or a cake leveler.

Step 5

Mayonnaise:

Step 6

Step 3: In a bowl, whip the egg yolks, mustard, salt, and sugar with a mixer until smooth. While continuing to whip, slowly pour in the vegetable oil in a thin stream until fully incorporated and the mixture is thick and glossy. Add the lemon juice at the end and whip briefly to combine. For a richer taste, ensure the oil is added very slowly.

Step 7

Filling:

Step 8

Step 4: Combine the grated cheese, diced chicken, black olives, and diced tomatoes in a bowl. Season with mayonnaise, salt, and ground black pepper to taste. Add herbs or spices to enhance the flavor profile of the filling.

Step 9

Covering:

Step 10

Step 5: In a separate bowl, whip the cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.

Step 11

Assembly:

Step 12

Step 6: Assemble the cake in a ring mold by layering as follows: one layer of cake, a border of the covering cream, and the filling. Repeat until all the layers are used up. Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours to set. Chilling helps to firm up the layers for easier slicing.

Step 13

Finishing:

Step 14

Step 7: Finally, cover the cake evenly with the remaining covering cream. Serve and enjoy! Bon Appetit! Decorate with fresh herbs or extra cheese for a sophisticated finish.

Servings

Presentation is everything when it comes to this savory pastry cake! 🎂 To make your masterpiece even more appealing, garnish the top with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color and extra flavor.

If you're serving this at a party, consider cutting the cake into small, neat squares or wedges. This makes it easier for guests to grab and enjoy without any mess.

Pair this delightful cake with a fresh garden salad 🥗 or a light broth soup to balance its richness. For drinks, a crisp white wine 🍷 or a refreshing iced tea 🍹makes a perfect companion!

Variations

Gluten-Free 🌾: Substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free. The results are just as delicious!

Vegan 🌱: Replace the buttermilk with a mix of plant-based milk and a teaspoon of vinegar. Use a chia or flax egg (1 tablespoon of chia/flax seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) instead of the regular egg, and swap chicken with diced, roasted veggies or vegan meat substitutes. For the mayonnaise and cream cheese, opt for vegan versions that are widely available in stores.

Faq

Q: How do I prevent my cake layers from sticking to the pan?
A: Ensure you grease the baking pan thoroughly with butter or oil, and line the bottom with parchment paper for extra assurance.
Q: Why did my cake layers come out dense?
A: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the batter light and airy.
Q: How long can I store the assembled cake?
A: The fully assembled cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure it's covered to prevent it from drying out.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as gouda, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar, depending on your taste preferences.
Q: How can I make the outer cream layer smoother?
A: Chill the cake after assembling it, then smooth the cream layer with a hot spatula or knife for a professional finish.
Q: Can I prepare the components ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bake the cake layers and prepare the fillings a day ahead. Assemble the cake on the day you intend to serve it for the freshest taste.