Prague Cake is a vintage chocolate layer cake that bakes soft and rich, finished with a buttery cocoa cream that makes each slice smooth and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 eggs
- 1 can (397 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup (120 g) flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 can whole milk (measured in the empty condensed milk can)
- 1 egg (for the cream)
- 2 tablespoons flour (for the cream)
- 1 cup (200 g) sugar
- 150 g butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder (for the cream)
- Vodka or cognac, for soaking
- Nuts or chocolate candies, for decorating
Instructions
- 1
Mix the cocoa, 2 eggs, condensed milk, flour, and baking soda into a smooth batter.
- 2
Divide the batter evenly between 2 greased and lined round cake pans.
- 3
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 35 to 40 minutes per layer until springy and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
- 4
Whisk the milk, 1 egg, and 2 tablespoons flour until smooth.
- 5
Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cream thickens and just comes to a boil, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- 6
Remove from the heat and cool fully.
- 7
Beat in the sugar, softened butter, and remaining cocoa until smooth.
- 8
Brush the cooled layers lightly with vodka or cognac.
- 9
Spread the cream between the layers and over the top and sides.
- 10
Decorate with nuts or chocolate candies. Chill for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Cook's Note
Cook the cream gently and cool it fully before beating in the butter so it turns thick and smooth instead of greasy.
Best Served With
Fresh berries
Why This Recipe Works
The condensed milk batter keeps the layers tender and moist, while the cooked cocoa-butter cream gives the cake a fuller chocolate finish and helps it slice neatly after chilling.
Make It Yours
Add chopped toasted nuts between the layers, swap the vodka for cognac or coffee syrup, or finish the top with grated chocolate.
Leftover Strategy
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days. Slice cold for clean edges, and let the slice sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Want to impress guests with this dish? Ask Jeff →
Pairing
Hot coffee or
black tea ↗ works well with the chocolate layers;
chocolate wafers ↗ make a simple pantry-side bite.
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