Traditional Lithuanian Šakotis Recipe

Ingredients

  • 20 eggs
  • 1.25 kg of sugar
  • 1 kg of unsalted butter
  • 1 kg of all-purpose flour
  • 200 ml of heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat the traditional Šakotis oven or rotisserie to 180°C (356°F).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the sugar and butter. Mix until the texture is creamy and smooth.
  3. Gradually add the eggs into the butter and sugar mixture one by one, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.
  5. Gradually add the flour to the mixture. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and the batter is smooth.
  6. Place the batter in the fridge for about an hour to rest and chill.
  7. Prepare the Šakotis spit by greasing it with some butter.
  8. Start the oven or rotisserie and let it reach its operating heat.
  9. Once the spit is rotating, start spooning the batter onto the spit.
  10. Continue adding batter in layers, allowing each layer to brown before adding the next.
  11. Repeat this process until all the batter is used up. This could take several hours, but rotating and basting should be done continuously.
  12. Once the Šakotis is fully cooked and golden brown, remove it from the oven or rotisserie and let it cool down completely before cutting into it.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Replace the all-purpose flour with cake flour for a lighter texture.
  • Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate twist.
  • Substitute some of the sugar with brown sugar for a hint of caramel flavor.
  • Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the batter for a warm and aromatic taste.
  • Top the Šakotis with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for added sweetness.
  • Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to the batter for a crunchy texture.
  • For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
  • Experiment with different extracts such as almond or coconut to add unique flavors.
  • For a savory variation, substitute the sugar with grated Parmesan cheese and add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the batter.
  • Use a mixture of different citrus zest, such as orange and lime, to add a citrusy twist to the Šakotis.

Recipe overview

Šakotis is a traditional Lithuanian cake known for its unique shape and savory taste. Its name literally translates to "branched tree" due to its resemblance to a tree's branchy silhouette. This sweet delicacy requires a mindful and patient approach, using simple ingredients like eggs, sugar, butter, flour, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Expect to dedicate several hours to the baking process as the cake is layered and baked on a rotating spit. Despite the labor-intensive process, the result is a scrumptious and eye-catching dessert that's sure to impress your guests. This recipe will guide you step-by-step in creating your own Šakotis at home. Enjoy the experience of making this traditional Lithuanian cake!

Common questions

  1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? No, it is best to use unsalted butter in this recipe to control the salt content and achieve the desired taste.
  2. Can I substitute the heavy cream with another ingredient? Using heavy cream is recommended for the best texture and flavor. However, if you don't have heavy cream, you can try substituting with full-fat milk, although the texture may be slightly different.
  3. How long should I let the batter chill in the fridge? Let the batter chill in the fridge for about an hour. This will help the batter thicken slightly and make it easier to spoon onto the spit.
  4. How can I tell when the Šakotis is fully cooked? The Šakotis is fully cooked when it turns golden brown and a skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. It usually takes several hours for the Šakotis to cook completely.
  5. Can I speed up the cooking process? To achieve the traditional texture and appearance of Šakotis, it is best to cook it slowly over a longer period of time. Speeding up the cooking process may result in uneven baking and a different texture.
  6. Can I store Šakotis? Yes, you can store Šakotis in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. It is best to consume it within a few days for the freshest taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing bowl - A large bowl for mixing the ingredients together.
  • Electric mixer - Useful for creaming the sugar and butter, as well as incorporating the eggs into the mixture.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - To accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Spatula - A flexible spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl and ensure all ingredients are well combined.
  • Šakotis oven or rotisserie - The traditional oven or rotating spit specifically designed for making Šakotis.
  • Šakotis spit - The long, metal rod used to stack the batter in layers and rotate it while baking.
  • Butter for greasing the spit - Helps prevent the batter from sticking to the spit during baking.
  • Basting brush - Used to brush butter or glaze onto the Šakotis as it bakes.
  • Serving platter - A large platter or cake stand for presenting the Šakotis.
  • Šakotis knife - A long, serrated knife for slicing the Šakotis into individual servings.

Origin stories

Šakotis is a traditional Lithuanian dish that has been an integral part of the country's cuisine for centuries. The name "šakotis" translates to "branched tree" or "tree with many branches", owing to the cake's unique, spiked appearance. The cake's origins have been traced back to the medieval times. Legend has it that the Grand Duke of Lithuania once went hunting in a forest and saw a bewitchingly shimmering tree. The tree, illuminated by the setting sun, had countless branches that were glazed with a golden hue. The Duke was so taken by this sight that he ordered his royal bakers to create a cake that would mimic this enchanting tree. The result was the first Šakotis. Today, it holds a special place in Lithuanian celebrations and is often the centerpiece at weddings, Christmas celebrations, and other festive occasions. This delightful dessert, with its distinct shape and rich flavor, truly reflects the spirit of Lithuania.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.