There are a few styles of Royal Cake around the world, but this one is a European-inspired version (sometimes called “Royal Delight Cake” or “Gateau Royal”), featuring an almond sponge, chocolate praline crunch, and a creamy mousse topping — fit for a king or queen.
Royal Cake (Gateau Royal / Torta Royale)
Servings: 10–12
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Chill Time: 3–4 hours
No-Bake (except for sponge base)
Ingredients:
Almond Sponge Base:
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3 large egg whites
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2/3 cup powdered sugar
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1 cup almond flour
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Praline Crunch Layer:
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1/2 cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
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1 cup crushed crispy wafers or cornflakes
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1/4 cup melted milk chocolate
Chocolate Mousse Layer:
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7 oz (200 g) dark chocolate, chopped
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1 ½ cups heavy cream, divided
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2 tbsp sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Glaze:
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3 oz (85 g) dark chocolate, melted
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2 tbsp cream or butter (for shine)
Instructions:
1. Make the almond sponge base:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Line a round or square cake pan with parchment paper.
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Whisk egg whites until soft peaks form.
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Gently fold in powdered sugar, almond flour, and all-purpose flour.
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Spread evenly into the pan and bake for 10–12 minutes, until lightly golden.
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Let cool completely.
2. Prepare the praline crunch layer:
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In a bowl, mix hazelnut spread, melted chocolate, and crushed wafers or cornflakes.
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Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled sponge base.
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Chill for 30 minutes to set.
3. Make the chocolate mousse:
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Heat ½ cup cream until just simmering.
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Pour over chopped dark chocolate, let sit 1 minute, then whisk smooth.
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Cool slightly.
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Whip the remaining 1 cup cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
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Fold whipped cream into the cooled chocolate mixture until smooth and airy.
4. Assemble:
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Spread the mousse over the praline layer.
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Smooth the top and chill for at least 3–4 hours, or overnight.
5. Add glaze (optional):
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Melt chocolate with cream or butter until smooth.
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Pour over chilled cake and spread evenly.
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Chill again for 30 minutes before slicing.
To Serve:
Slice with a warm knife for clean edges. Garnish with chocolate curls, gold leaf, or toasted almonds for a truly regal look. 👑
Tips & Variations:
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🍫 White Royal Cake: Use white chocolate for the mousse and top with raspberries.
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🌰 Nutty twist: Add chopped hazelnuts or almonds between layers.
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🎂 Shortcut: Use store-bought sponge cake or ladyfingers as the base.
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🧊 Frozen version: Freeze before serving for a semifreddo-like texture.
Would you like the Middle Eastern-style “Royal Cake” version too (with whipped cream, caramel, and biscuit layers)? It’s incredibly popular and easier to make — no baking required.
