If you are craving a luscious dessert that combines delicate crispness with irresistibly smooth sweetness, then you absolutely must try this Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche Recipe. This traditional treat layers simple plain wafers with a dreamy, whipped blend of cooked sweetened condensed milk—commonly known as dulce de leche—softened butter, and a touch of lemon juice. The result is a beautifully textured cake that melts in your mouth and brings a warm, nostalgic vibe perfect for sharing with loved ones. Trust me, once you make this cake, it will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche Recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, each plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect combination of texture and flavor. From the crisp wafers providing the cake’s structure to the rich, silky filling that ties it all together, every component is essential for that authentic taste.
- Plain wafers (round or square, 9 layers, 9-inch diameter): These form the light and crunchy layers that contrast beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Cooked sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz): Also known as dulce de leche, this caramel-like ingredient adds irresistible sweetness and a luscious texture.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 stick, softened): Butter lends softness and richness, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Just a hint of acidity to brighten up the cream and prevent it from tasting too sweet.
How to Make Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Filling
Start by combining the cooked condensed milk, softened butter, and lemon juice in a bowl. Use a mixer to beat this mixture on high speed for about 3 minutes until it becomes fluffy and smooth. This whipped filling is the heart of the cake, offering a decadent texture that holds the layers together without overpowering the crisp wafers.
Step 2: Assemble the Layers
Next, spread a thin layer of the creamy filling evenly over each wafer, making sure to reach the edges. The key here is moderation—you want enough cream to bind the wafers but not so much that the cake becomes soggy. You can choose to make one tall cake stacking all nine wafers or split them into two smaller, thinner cakes. Both ways the wafers absorb the cream over time, softening just enough to create the perfect bite.
Step 3: Press and Chill
Once assembled, place the cake under a heavy cutting board or create a simple press by placing a bowl of water on top of a board. This weight helps compress the layers and melds all the flavors. Let the cake sit under the press for at least 2 hours, though overnight in the fridge yields an even better texture. When ready, slice into pieces and prepare to enjoy a truly special dessert experience.
How to Serve Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche Recipe
Garnishes
This cake shines beautifully on its own, but you can elevate its presentation with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of honey. Fresh berries or a sprig of mint also add a lovely pop of color and a refreshing contrast against the sweet layers.
Side Dishes
Pair the Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche Recipe alongside a cup of strong black coffee or a fragrant tea, such as Earl Grey or chamomile. The bitterness of the drink balances the rich sweetness of the cake perfectly, making every bite feel indulgent yet harmonious.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifts, slice the cake into small squares and arrange them on a decorative platter. You can even pipe additional whipped cream on top or add a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra texture. Serving it chilled or at room temperature allows you to adapt the dish with ease to the occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain the moisture of the wafers and the cream’s fluffiness. Each slice tastes even better after the flavors have mingled overnight.
Freezing
You can freeze slices of the Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche Recipe wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw them slowly in the fridge to preserve the delicate texture of the wafers and cream.
Reheating
Since this dessert is best served chilled or at room temperature, reheating is generally not recommended. Let the cake sit out for about 15–20 minutes after taking it from the fridge if you prefer a softer texture without losing the fresh creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of wafer for this cake?
Absolutely! While traditional plain wafers work best for the authentic texture, you can experiment with similar crisp cookies as long as they are plain and not overly sweet or flavored.
Is it possible to make the dulce de leche from scratch?
Yes! You can make homemade dulce de leche by slow-cooking sweetened condensed milk, but for convenience and consistency, the canned cooked condensed milk is a fantastic shortcut without compromising flavor.
How long should the cake be refrigerated before serving?
At least 2 hours under a press is recommended to let the layers meld properly, but chilling overnight enhances the softness of the wafers and deepens the flavors beautifully.
Can this cake be made vegan?
Traditional recipes use butter and condensed milk, but you can try plant-based alternatives like vegan butter and coconut condensed milk to adapt the recipe, though the texture and taste will differ slightly.
Why add lemon juice to the cream mixture?
Lemon juice balances the sweetness of the dulce de leche by adding a subtle tang, which keeps the flavor from becoming cloying and lifts the overall taste of the cake.
Final Thoughts
Making the Ukrainian Waffle Cake with Dulce de Leche Recipe is like inviting a piece of cozy tradition into your kitchen. Its simple ingredients and straightforward process combine to create a dessert that is both elegant and comforting. I encourage you to give it a try and delight in sharing this sweet classic with friends and family — it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for more.
