Vanilla Almond Cream Cake

Prepare the Cream:

Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, whisk together 2 eggs, 150 grams sugar, vanilla sugar, and 70 grams cornstarch.
Add Milk: Gradually stir in 500 ml milk, mixing until smooth.
Cook the Cream: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
Cool the Cream: Cover the cream with cling film, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool completely.
Prepare the Choux Pastry:

Heat Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine 100 ml water, 100 ml milk, 80 grams butter, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Heat until the butter is fully melted.
Add Flour: Stir in 120 grams flour all at once and cook the batter for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until it forms a smooth dough that pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Cool Slightly: Remove from heat and let the dough cool for about 4 minutes.
Add Eggs: Gradually add 3-4 eggs to the dough, one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy. The dough should slowly pull away from the spoon when lifted.
Form and Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F). On a baking sheet, pipe or spoon the dough into a circle with a diameter of 18 cm (7 inches). Brush with the remaining egg and sprinkle with flaked almonds. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
Prepare the Buttercream:

Mix Buttercream: Gradually add the room temperature pudding to the 140 grams of room temperature butter, mixing until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Cake:

Slice and Fill: Slice the cooled choux pastry horizontally to create two layers. Spread the buttercream evenly on the bottom layer and place the top layer over it.
Chill: Refrigerate the assembled cake for 30 minutes before serving to allow the cream to set.
Serving Suggestions:

Serve chilled with a dusting of powdered sugar on top.
Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful dessert experience.
Garnish with fresh berries for added color and flavor.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Cooking Tips:

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