Ptichye Moloko Recipe (Russian Bird’s Milk Cake)
Ptichye Moloko, meaning “Bird’s Milk”, is a famous Russian dessert made with a light sponge base, a fluffy vanilla soufflé filling, and a smooth chocolate glaze. This classic cake is elegant, airy, and surprisingly simple when broken down step by step.
Perfect for special occasions, holidays, or when you want a show-stopping European dessert at home.
Why You’ll Love This Ptichye Moloko Cake
- Authentic Russian dessert recipe
- Light, airy soufflé texture
- Not overly sweet
- Perfect balance of vanilla and chocolate
- Great make-ahead cake for celebrations
Ingredients
For the Sponge Cake Base
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Soufflé Filling
- 1 tablespoon agar-agar powder
- ½ cup (120 ml) water
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 4 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (120 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Glaze
- 100 g (3.5 oz) dark chocolate
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
How to Make Ptichye Moloko Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake
- Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F).
- Beat eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Add vanilla, then gently fold in flour.
- Pour batter into a lined 8-inch round pan.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Cool completely and keep in the pan.
Step 2: Make the Soufflé Filling
- In a saucepan, mix agar-agar and water. Let bloom for 5 minutes.
- Add sugar and heat until fully dissolved. Bring to a gentle boil.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Slowly pour hot agar syrup into egg whites while beating continuously.
- In another bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add condensed milk and vanilla.
- Gently fold the butter mixture into the egg white mixture.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Pour soufflé mixture over cooled sponge base.
- Smooth the top evenly.
- Refrigerate for 2–3 hours until fully set.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Glaze
- Heat cream until just steaming (do not boil).
- Pour over chopped chocolate and butter.
- Stir until smooth and glossy.
- Cool slightly, then pour over the chilled cake.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate for 30–45 minutes until glaze sets.
- Slice with a hot knife for clean edges.
Tips for Perfect Ptichye Moloko
- Agar-agar is essential; gelatin will not give the same structure
- Use room-temperature egg whites for maximum volume
- Chill thoroughly before slicing
- Store refrigerated for best texture
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Up to 3 days in an airtight container
- Freezing: Not recommended (soufflé texture may change)
Nutrition Information (Approximate per slice)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 6g
Final Thoughts
Ptichye Moloko is one of Russia’s most beloved desserts — light, creamy, and beautifully balanced. This homemade version stays true to the original while being achievable in a home kitchen. If you love European cakes or classic Russian recipes, this one deserves a place in your collection.
Similar Recipes You May Like
- Napoleon Cake (Russian Mille-Feuille)
- Medovik (Russian Honey Cake)
- Bird’s Milk Candy
- Chocolate Soufflé Cake
- Vanilla Mousse Cake

Comments
Post a Comment