Smörgåstårta (Swedish Sandwich Cake)

Smörgåstårta is a stunning and savory Swedish dish that resembles a layered cake but is made with sandwich ingredients. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate, featuring layers of bread, creamy fillings, and decorative toppings. Typically served at celebrations, this versatile dish can be customized with seafood, meats, or vegetarian fillings.

Ingredients:

For the Base:

1. Bread slices – 12–15 slices (white or rye, crusts removed)
   • Alternatively, use unsliced loaves and cut horizontally.

For the Fillings:

1. Cream cheese or mayonnaise – 1 cup (for spreading)
2. Smoked salmon or deli ham – 8 oz, thinly sliced
3. Shrimp or tuna salad – 1 cup
   • Shrimp or tuna, mixed with mayo, lemon juice, and seasonings.
4. Egg salad – 1 cup
   • Hard-boiled eggs, mashed with mayo, mustard, salt, and pepper.

For the Frosting:

1. Cream cheese and sour cream mixture – 1 cup (blended for a smooth texture)

For Decoration:

1. Sliced cucumbers
2. Cherry tomatoes
3. Shrimp
4. Smoked salmon roses
5. Hard-boiled eggs (sliced or quartered)
6. Fresh herbs (like dill, parsley, or chives)
7. Lemon slices

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Base

1. Trim the bread:
   • Remove crusts from bread slices for smooth edges.
   • Arrange them side by side to form the base layer. Use a rectangular or round pattern, depending on the desired shape.
2. Build the layers:
   • Place a layer of bread on a serving platter.
   • Spread one filling (e.g., egg salad) evenly across the bread.
   • Add another bread layer and press gently.
   • Spread the second filling (e.g., shrimp salad).
   • Repeat the process for 3–4 layers.

Step 2: Frost the Cake

1. Prepare the frosting:
   • Blend cream cheese with sour cream until smooth and spreadable.
2. Frost the outside:
   • Use a spatula to evenly coat the top and sides of the sandwich layers with the cream cheese mixture, mimicking the appearance of a cake.

Step 3: Decorate the Cake

Add toppings:

• Arrange cucumber slices around the sides.
• Decorate the top with cherry tomatoes, shrimp, smoked salmon roses, egg slices, and herbs.
• Be creative with the presentation to make it visually appealing.

1. Chill:
   • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This helps the flavors meld and keeps the structure intact.

Serving:

Cut the Smörgåstårta into slices like a cake and serve as a centerpiece dish for brunch, lunch, or special occasions.

Tips:Use different fillings to cater to dietary preferences, such as vegetarian spreads or gluten-free bread.

• Prepare ahead of time for easy assembly on the day of serving.
• Ensure the frosting and toppings are applied just before serving for maximum freshness.

Smörgåstårta is a delightful dish that brings an element of elegance and surprise to your table! 🎂🥪