Pastís Andorrà
Pastís Andorrà (pahs-TEES ahn-doh-RAH)
Andorran Layer Cake
A festive layered cake filled with pastry cream and seasonal mountain berries, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar. This elegant Andorran dessert is the centerpiece of birthdays and celebrations throughout the principality.
Nutrition & Info
Allergen Warnings
Equipment Needed
Presentation Guide
Vessel: cake stand or plate
Garnishes: powdered sugar, fresh berries
Accompaniments: whipped cream
Instructions
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1
Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease two 23cm round cake pans. Beat egg whites to stiff peaks. In a separate bowl, beat yolks with sugar until pale and thick, about 4 minutes. Add vanilla.
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2
Fold the sifted flour and baking powder into the yolk mixture in three additions. Then fold in the beaten egg whites gently in three additions, being careful not to deflate the batter.
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3
Divide the batter between the two pans and bake for 25-28 minutes until golden and springy. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
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4
Make the pastry cream: heat the milk in a saucepan until steaming. Whisk yolks with sugar and cornstarch until smooth. Pour hot milk gradually into the yolk mixture while whisking constantly.
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5
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes until very thick. Remove from heat, add vanilla, and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface. Refrigerate until completely cold.
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6
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half the pastry cream over it, then arrange half the berries on the cream. Place the second cake layer on top, pressing gently.
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7
Spread the remaining pastry cream on top and arrange the remaining berries decoratively. Dust generously with powdered sugar through a fine sieve. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the layers set.
Did You Know?
Andorran bakeries each have their own signature version of pastís andorrà, and families develop fierce loyalties to their preferred baker. Switching bakeries for a birthday cake is considered mildly scandalous.
Chef's Notes
Equipment Tips
- 2 round cake pans
- electric mixer
- saucepan
Garnishing
powdered sugar, fresh berries
Accompaniments
whipped cream
The Story Behind Pastís Andorrà
The Andorran layer cake developed in the nineteenth century when refined European baking techniques reached the principality through French and Spanish influence.
Unlike the heavier, butter-rich cakes of northern Europe, the Andorran version emphasizes light sponge layers and fresh pastry cream, reflecting the Mediterranean approach to dessert.
Today pastís andorrà is the default celebration cake in Andorra, ordered from local bakeries for birthdays, name days, and special occasions throughout the year.
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