Seven-Layered Sicilian Cake
Scoma’s | San Francisco
Seven-Layered Sicilian Cake
Scoma’s | San Francisco
By Patricia Fitzgerald
July 19, 2024
By Patricia Fitzgerald
July 19, 2024
Photo Credit: Gamma Nine Gordon Drysdale
In Sicily, the traditional Torta Setteveli features “seven veils,” an evocative reference to seven layers of dessert decadence. At pier-to-plate concept Scoma’s, this end-of-the-meal extravagance has been a guest favorite since it was added to the menu 10 years ago. The build features alternating layers of chocolate cake and hazelnut Bavarian cream, along with chocolate mousse and hazelnut praline. The impressive confection is crowned with a thin layer of chocolate ganache.
“The beauty of the dessert lies in the taste and texture of the layers,” says Gordon Drysdale, culinary director. The cake layers deliver substance and structure, while the hazelnut Bavarian cream provides a lightness. The mousse adds more chocolate flavor while the praline’s crunch is a counterpoint to the creamy layers. “The ganache ties it all together with a veil of intense chocolate flavor,” he adds. The visually striking dessert is a menu staple, says Drysdale. “It’s complex enough that you are unlikely to make at home, but it is approachable, composed of familiar flavors.”
About the Author
Patricia Fitzgerald serves different roles on the Flavor & The Menu team, including writing custom content, Kitchen Collaborative chef spotlights and digital editorial content, as well as acting as a contributing editor for the print magazine. As owner of PFitzCommunications, she specializes in various areas of foodservice and hospitality, while also maintaining clients in other industries and professions. She can be reached at [email protected].
