The history of Gugută's hat cake

The “Guguță's hat cake” or “Cușma lui Guguță” cake is an iconic Moldovan dessert with a rich and culturally significant history. Its origins are tied to the children's stories written by the Moldovan author Spiridon Vangheli, who created the character Guguță. This character is famous for his oversized hat, and the cake is named after it due to its resemblance when assembled

he dessert consists of a series of thin crepes, traditionally filled with sour cherries or morello cherries and a sweet cream made from smântână (a type of fermented cream), arranged in layers to form a structure mimicking a mountain hat. These layers are interspersed with cream and stacked in a pyramid shape. The cake is typically decorated with grated chocolate, creating a charming and visually appealing finish​

The significance of this dessert goes beyond its delicious appearance; it is a nostalgic journey into childhood for many Moldovans. The stories of Guguță, a boy with a free and adventurous spirit, are very popular in Moldova and reflect cultural and familial values. The cake has become a culinary symbol of these stories, prepared for many family celebrations and festivities​

The recipe for “Cușma lui Guguță” varies slightly depending on the region and family tradition. The basic ingredients include eggs, milk, flour for the crepes, and sour cherries for the filling. The cream is typically made from smântână, sometimes mixed with mascarpone to add a richer and smoother texture. Everything is assembled and refrigerated, allowing the flavours to meld and the structure to set​

This dessert not only stands out for its taste but also for its method of preparation, which often involves the entire family. Making the crepes and assembling the cake are activities that can engage several family members, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration. Additionally, its final presentation, reminiscent of Guguță’s hat, is always a highlight on any festive table​

In summary, “Cușma lui Guguță” is more than just a dessert; it is a sweet representation of Moldovan culture and traditions, evoking memories of childhood and the popular literature of Spiridon Vangheli. This dessert remains a favourite in Moldova, cherished for both its taste and cultural significance​

The version you can find on this website differs in its form but not in its essence and ingredients.