Hungarian Gerbeaud Cake (Zserbó Szelet)

Zserbó Szelet is a classic Hungarian layered dessert made with tender pastry, apricot jam, ground walnuts, and a smooth chocolate topping. The combination of buttery pastry, fruity jam, crunchy walnuts, and chocolate makes this traditional cake perfect for holidays, celebrations, or an afternoon coffee.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Filling

• 1½ cups apricot jam
• 2 cups finely ground walnuts
• ¾ cup granulated sugar

For the Chocolate Topping

• 5 oz dark chocolate
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream