Easy Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Napoleon Cake
Introducing the gluten-free, dairy-free Napoleon Cake – an unbelievable dessert that is sure to wow. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, or simply want a delectable treat after dinner, this cake perfectly fits the bill. Here’s the kicker: even though this dessert looks and tastes like it’s straight out of a professional bakery, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home – and it’s gluten-free and dairy-free! With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this beautiful Napoleon cake, sure to impress your guests and family.
Now, while the Napoleon Cake might seem like a luxury dessert, it’s amazing how simple it is to make in the comfort of your kitchen. Think: flaky puff pastry, rich pastry cream, and a contrasting layer of chocolates – semi-sweet and white. Each layer is a different experience: crisp, creamy, and decadently chocolaty. The beauty of this cake is not just in its taste, but also in its presentation. The dual chocolate drizzle on top not only adds to its appeal but also provides a wonderful texture contrast.
If you’re on the lookout for a gluten-free dessert that’s delicious, easy to make, and guaranteed to impress, your search ends here!
Why You’ll Love The Napoleon Cake
- A Visual Showstopper: This cake doesn’t just taste good; it looks the part too. The alternating layers, complemented by the glossy chocolate, make it an impressive centerpiece dessert for any occasion.
- Creamy Meets Crispy: The puff pastry provides a crisp contrast to the velvety smooth pastry cream, ensuring a balanced bite every time.
- Gluten and Dairy Free With the use of oat milk and gluten-free puff pastry sheets, this dessert caters to those who may be gluten-free and/or dairy-free without compromising on taste.
Ingredients You Need for a Gluten-Free Napoleon Cake
- Oat Milk
- Egg yolks
- Egg
- Sugar
- Vanilla paste or a whole bean
- Salt
- Cornstarch
- Gluten-free puff pastry sheets
- Semi-sweet chocolate
- White chocolate
How To Make Napoleon Cake
For the Pastry Cream:
- Add the oat milk and vanilla to a pan and heat on medium until it boils.
- In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, sugar, salt, and cornstarch.
- Once the milk boils, reduce the heat. Gradually whisk in a bit of the hot milk into the egg mixture to temper the eggs.
- Add the tempered egg mixture back to the pot with the remaining milk, whisking continuously until it thickens.
- Transfer the pastry cream to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate until it’s chilled.
For the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Halve the puff pastry sheets and bake until they turn a golden brown, roughly 20 minutes. Allow them to cool on a rack.
- Once they’re cool, melt both chocolates. Spread the semi-sweet chocolate on one puff pastry sheet, and then drizzle the white chocolate over it.
- For assembly, layer one puff pastry sheet on a plate, pipe or spread one-third of the pastry cream on top. Place another puff pastry on this and repeat. Finish with the chocolate-coated puff pastry on top.
- Allow the assembled cake to sit for about 30 minutes, letting the layers meld and the pastry soften. Slice and relish every bite!
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I use regular milk instead of oat milk?
Yes! While oat milk is a great dairy-free option, you can use regular milk or any milk substitute you prefer. Just note that the taste and texture of the pastry cream might have slight variations based on the milk you choose.
What if I don’t have a pastry or frosting bag?
Not a problem! A zip-lock bag works just as well. Simply fill it with the pastry cream, cut a small corner off, and you’re good to go.
How should I store the Napoleon Cake?
Freshness is key. Store your Napoleon Cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days. But honestly, it tastes best when enjoyed fresh.
Are there any variations for the pastry cream flavor?
This recipe uses vanilla, but there is always room for creativity! Consider almond extract, citrus zest, or even a dash of coffee or caramel for a different flavor profile.
Napoleon Cake
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowls
- measuring spoons/cups
- 1 Baking Pan
Ingredients
Ingredients for Pastry Cream
- 2 cups oat milk
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 egg
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla paste (or 1 whole bean)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 4 tbsp cornstarch
Ingredients for Cake
- 2 gluten-free puff pastry sheets
- 1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate
- 1/8 cup white chocolate
Instructions
How To Make It Step-by-Step Instructions: Pastry Cream
- Add the oat milk and vanilla and place over medium heat.
- Bring to a boil.
- In a separate bowl mix together the eggs, sugar, salt, & cornstarch.
- Once the milk comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low.
- Whisk one spoonful of the milk into the egg mixture.
- Whisk quickly to temper the eggs.
- Add into another spoonful, while you whisk.
- Then add the egg mixture to the pot with the milk.
- Whisk until thick.
- Pour the pastry cream in the bowl, cover & place in the fridge to chill completely.
How To Make It Step-by-Step Instructions: Cake
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
- line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cut the puff pastry sheets in half & bake until golden brown, approx 20 mins.
- Place the sheets on a cooling rack.
- Once cooled completely melt both chocolates & first spread the semi sweet chocolate on one puff pastry sheet, drizzle the white chocolate across the top.
- Let’s assemble the cake.
- Add the pastry cream to a pastry bag.
- First add one layer of puff pastry, add 1/3 of the pastry cream on top, then a pastry layer, repeat and top with the puff pastry with the chocolate.
- Let sit for 30 minutes for the pastry to soften slightly. Slice and enjoy!
Beyond the sheer joy of crafting a masterpiece in your kitchen, the Napoleon Cake guarantees a luxury experience in every bite – even when it’s gluten and dairy-free. The juxtaposition of the crispy puff pastry with the silken texture of the pastry cream, all crowned with a glossy finish of chocolates, is truly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it at a party, to show off just for the family, or enjoying just for you, its elegance and taste are bound to impress!