the cake problem resolved -conclusion and thoughts.

You are right, it has some similarities with Napoleon cake, but it is even better.  The layers are made with walnuts and egg whites.  My mom doesn't have a recipe but just makes it from memory.  I will ask her to write it down and share it with those that want it.  It is a unique family recipe based on traditional Russian cake-making.  Russian cake's are made with many different layers, creams and fillings.  They are very different from standard American birthday cake. 

I, for one, would love to have the recipe if your mom is willing to share! I like to cook and bake and would love to make this for a friend's birthday---being careful to leave the cake with her, of course!!! (After eating a piece, that is!)

Isn't it funny how those family memories are so often connected with food? I remember that my favorite birthday cake as a kid was not "traditional" either--my mom  made it with lady fingers around the edge and in the middle and there was a dark chocolate mousse and whip cream filling...

On the other hand, I also remember how excited my sister and I were when we were allowed to get up by ourselves on weekends to watch cartoons and the big treat was that we could go get carrots to eat along with Bugs Bunny. Why didn't I just stick with carrots???

Lizanne

Ha!  Mine either!

My favorite birthday cake is jello cake, yellow cake with holes poked in it, and then double strength peach jello poured over it,  fridge until congealed, cover with whippy cream, or whippy cream and fruit!

My mom made this but she used lime jello & added lemon flavoring ot the whipped cream.  Now I want some.  thanks a lot Brandilynn! 

 
This is how my brain processes this:

"Elina's Mom's VSG Approved Russian Cake made with layers of Walnuts and Egg Whites"

frisco

Reminds me I have to get my mom to write down her Teriyaki Sauce Recipe. 

oh, I'm interested in a recipe of this kind of deliciousness and yumminess.

 What a happy ending!  The only way it could have been better.........."and I wrapped up a piece and sent it to Jim!"........ just my opinion!  

I think it is great about how you handled this. What impressed me the most was that before you ate it your family went through the history surrounding the cake thus making it a ritual. In that sense, a little would be enough... sort of sacred family event.

Elina I love this whole story and how it turned out. Gives us all hope of the occasional pleasant eating experience. Actually sounds like - dare I say it- eating like a normal person. Diane

I am glad yall got to share cake and history and confirm that strategy is a helpful wubbie!  :}