Mađarica
Mađarica is a traditional Croatian layered chocolate slice, known for its delicate layers of thin, tender pastry separated by a rich, silky chocolate filling and topped with a glossy chocolate glaze. This dessert is a show-stopper at festive occasions and gatherings!
Mađarica Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
For the Chocolate Filling:
4 cups milk
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup butter
For the Chocolate Glaze:
7 oz (200 g) dark chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and baking powder. Add in the butter and rub it into the flour mixture with your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
In a small bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
Divide the dough into five equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin, rectangular sheet that fits a standard baking tray (about 9×13 inches). Place each layer on parchment paper for easy transfer.
2. Bake the Layers:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake each layer on a baking tray for about 7-10 minutes, or until just lightly golden. Be careful not to over-bake; the layers should be soft to the touch. Let the layers cool completely.
3. Make the Chocolate Filling:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and flour until smooth. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 10-12 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and incorporated. Let the filling cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Mađarica:
On a flat surface or a baking tray, place the first baked layer and spread a thin, even layer of chocolate filling on top.
Repeat with the remaining layers and filling, ending with a layer of dough on top (you should have four layers of filling and five layers of pastry). Gently press down to even out the layers. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Glaze:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate and oil. Microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and glossy.
Pour the glaze over the top layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Return to the fridge to set.
6. Serve:
Once fully set, trim the edges for a cleaner look, then slice into small squares or rectangles. Serve chilled.
Tips:
Thin Layers: The secret to a perfect Mađarica is rolling the dough layers thinly and evenly.
Set Time: Allow adequate refrigeration time to make slicing easier and to set the layers and glaze.
Cutting: Use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts for clean slices.
Mađarica is a beautiful dessert, combining tender pastry layers and rich chocolate for an unforgettable treat that’s well worth the effort!
