Swedish Fika & Smörgåstårta Explained
A stunning savory cake, Smörgåstårta features layers of soft bread filled with creamy, delectable spreads like shrimp and smoked salmon, artfully decorated for a festive touch.
Ingredients
- 16 slices white bread crusts removed
- 1 cup mayonnaise for filling
- 0.5 cup sour cream for filling
- 200 g peeled shrimp chopped
- 0.25 cup fresh dill chopped
- 100 g cream cheese softened
- 50 g smoked salmon flaked
- 1 tbsp lemon juice for filling 2
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise for frosting
- 0.5 cup creme fraiche for frosting
- Salt to taste for seasoning
- Black pepper to taste for seasoning
- Cooked shrimp whole for garnish
- Cherry tomatoes halved for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Fillings: In a bowl, mix half of the mayonnaise and sour cream with chopped shrimp and dill for the first filling. Season with salt and pepper. In another bowl, mix cream cheese, flaked smoked salmon, and lemon juice for the second filling. Season.
- Assemble Layers: On a serving platter, arrange 4 slices of bread side-by-side to form a square or rectangle. Spread the first filling evenly over the bread. Place another layer of 4 bread slices on top. Spread the second filling evenly. Repeat with the remaining bread and fillings, ending with a layer of bread.
- Frost the Cake: In a small bowl, whisk the remaining mayonnaise with creme fraiche until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the top and sides of the sandwich cake, like frosting a regular cake.
- Decorate: Garnish the cake creatively with fresh dill sprigs, cucumber slices, lemon wedges, whole cooked shrimp, and cherry tomato halves.
- Chill: Cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or preferably overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to firm up.
- Serve: Slice and serve cold.
Notes
For best results, chill for at least 2 hours before serving, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to firm up. Variations can include ham, cheese, or vegetarian fillings. Use a mix of toppings for visual appeal. Adjust seasoning to your preference.