Karpatka (Polish Mountain Cake)

For more great recipes like this one, be sure to check out https://biga-app.com. Mangia!

Full Recipe

https://www.kingarthurbaking.com/recipes/karpatka-polish-mountain-cake-recipe

Author

Molly Marzalek-Kelly | 2026-01-16

Description

Karpatka, a beloved Polish cream cake with a ragged, sugar-dusted top that evokes the snow-capped Carpathian Mountains, is akin to a supersized cream puff. Our version of this stunning dessert layers crisp, golden pâte à choux with a lightened version of German buttercream — i.e., pastry cream whipped with butter — for a rich filling that's still wonderfully fluffy. A bright layer of tart raspberry jam, while untraditional, adds sweetness and a jewel-toned pop of color. Bake it when you're craving a dreamy dessert that's both striking and simple.