Fricassee Cake is a savory dish made with layers of shredded chicken, diced ham, and cooked vegetables, all encased between two layers of golden puff pastry.

Last month, I shared lots of cake recipes Like (Costco Fruit Cake, Max And Ruby Cake Recipe, and Black Forest Naked Cake …)but this one’s different. Meet Fricassee Cake – it’s not sweet like those cakes. Instead, it’s packed with tasty stuff like shredded chicken, diced ham, and veggies, all snug between layers of puff pastry. It’s like a pie but with a creamy sauce holding everything together.

Fricassee Cake isn’t just for fancy occasions – it’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re having a cozy family dinner or a big get-together, this savory dish is sure to please. So, try something new and whip up a Fricassee Cake for your next meal. You won’t regret it!

Is Fricassee a cake?

While the term “Fricassee Cake” may suggest a dessert-like confection, it actually refers to a savory dish rather than a traditional cake. Fricassee is a cooking method that involves braising meat (usually poultry) in a creamy sauce, often with vegetables and herbs. In the context of Fricassee Cake, it typically consists of layers of shredded chicken, diced ham, and cooked vegetables, all enveloped between layers of puff pastry and baked until golden brown. Despite its name, Fricassee Cake is not a sweet dessert but rather a hearty and flavorful main dish.

How to make Fricassee Cake

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup cooked vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 package puff pastry sheets (2 sheets), thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a round cake pan or pie dish and set aside.

Step 2:

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.

Step 3:

Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.

Step 4:

Add the diced chicken, ham, and cooked vegetables to the skillet. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5:

Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to fit the bottom and sides of the prepared cake pan. Place the pastry in the pan, pressing gently to fit.

Step 6:

Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly over the pastry.

Step 7:

Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry and place it over the filling. Trim any excess pastry and crimp the edges to seal.

Step 8:

Brush the top of the pastry with beaten egg to create a golden crust.

Step 9:

Use a sharp knife to make a few small slits on the top of the pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 10:

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.

Step 11:

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Tips

• When making the sauce, add the flour slowly to the melted butter to create a smooth roux. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
• Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste, but remember that the ham and chicken may already add saltiness to the dish. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Thaw the puff pastry sheets according to package instructions before using. Roll out the pastry to fit the cake pan and ensure a proper seal between the top and bottom layers.

What to pair with Fricassee Cake?

When serving Fricassee Cake, pair it with complementary dishes to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Start with a side salad featuring fresh greens and a light vinaigrette dressing to provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy Fricassee Cake.

Steam seasonal vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or carrots to serve alongside the cake, adding color, texture, and nutritional value to the meal. Offer slices of crusty bread or dinner rolls on the side to soak up the delicious sauce from the Fricassee Cake and complete the dining experience. Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting and hearty accompaniment, adding another layer of flavor and texture to the meal.

Alternatively, serve fluffy rice or quinoa as a base for the Fricassee Cake, soaking up the flavorful sauce and providing a wholesome element. For added variety, roast root vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, and parsnips with herbs and olive oil to create a hearty and flavorful side dish that complements the Fricassee Cake perfectly. These pairings will enhance the flavors of the Fricassee Cake and create a memorable dining experience for you and your guests.

How to store

To store Fricassee Cake, allow it to cool completely to room temperature after baking. Once cooled, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air exposure and moisture loss. Alternatively, transfer the cake to an airtight container with a lid. Store the Fricassee Cake in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Conclusion

I love how Fricassee Cake brings together tender shredded chicken, savory diced ham, and flavorful vegetables in a comforting and hearty dish. With its golden puff pastry crust and creamy sauce, it’s a true delight for the senses. Whether enjoyed as a cozy family dinner or served at a special gathering, this recipe never fails to impress. Fricassee Cake offers a taste of home and warmth that’s hard to resist.

FAQ

Can I use different meats in Fricassee Cake?

Yes, depending on your preferences, you can customize the recipe by using different meats such as turkey, pork, or beef.

Can I make Fricassee Cake ahead of time?

You can prepare the Fricassee Cake in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it before serving for a convenient meal option.

Can I use store-bought puff pastry for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought puff pastry works well for making Fricassee Cake. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for thawing before using.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly thinner in consistency.

Can I add extra vegetables to the filling?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach, to customize the dish to your liking.