Name: Cardinal slices – a delicate sponge-and-cream dessert with currant jam
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 5 egg whites (approx. 220 g); 150 g granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons corn starch; 5 egg yolks; 2 eggs; 70 g granulated sugar; seeds from 1 vanilla pod; grated zest of 1 lemon; 80 g semi-coarse flour; powdered sugar for dusting; 500 g whipping cream; 50 g powdered sugar; 1 packet of Smeta-fix; seeds from 1 vanilla pod; currant or cranberry jam

Preparation procedure

Preparing the meringue: Whip the egg whites with the sugar to stiff peaks. Then gently fold in the corn starch. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, pipe three strips of meringue, leaving gaps between them for the sponge batter.
Preparing the sponge batter: Beat the yolks and eggs with the sugar, vanilla seeds and lemon zest into a light foam. Gradually fold in the flour. Transfer the batter into a pastry bag and pipe it between the meringue strips.
Baking: Lightly dust the surface with powdered sugar and bake in a preheated oven at 165 °C for about 25 minutes. Let cool. Prepare a second sheet in the same way.
Cream: Whip the cream with the powdered sugar, vanilla seeds and Smeta-fix until firm.
Assembling the slices: Spread the bottom sheet with currant jam, spread a layer of cream and top with the second sheet (sugar side up). Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Preparation time and number of servings

Active time: 40 minutes
Baking: 25 minutes
Cooling: 2 hours
Total time: approximately 3 hours
Servings: 12

Conclusion

Cardinal slices are the perfect combination of delicacy and elegance. The airy layers of sponge and meringue combined with a light vanilla cream and fruit jam create an unmistakable taste experience. This dessert is ideal for festive occasions but will also please at an ordinary family gathering. Try it and see for yourself that it rightfully belongs among the royal desserts.