The SANDWICH CAKE is a showy, sociable preparation, perfect for buffets, parties and special occasions. In this version, each layer tells a different flavor story, creating a harmonious balance of tastes and textures. The soft sandwich bread welcomes a filling of Russian salad, creamy and gently savory, which brings freshness and a retro note of familiar flavor. Following that, a layer of spreadable cheese and Genovese pesto provides intense, aromatic scents, with the unmistakable character of basil that enlivens the palate.
To complete the composition, the classic and timeless combination of cheese and cooked ham, soft and enveloping, makes the sandwich cake balanced and adored by all.
Covered with a velvety cream and simply decorated, this savory cake conquers at first sight and at first taste. It’s the ideal solution for those looking for a practical yet impressive dish, capable of uniting tradition and flavor in a single, irresistible offering.
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- Difficulty: Very easy
- Cost: Very inexpensive
- Rest time: 2 Hours
- Preparation time: 10 Minutes
- Portions: 8 people
- Cooking methods: No-cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: Christmas
Ingredients
- 4 slices sandwich bread slices
- 7 oz Russian salad (insalata russa) (about 7/8 cup)
- 7 oz cream cheese, spreadable (about 7/8 cup)
- 3 tbsp Genovese pesto (about 3 tbsp)
- 3 oz cooked ham with herbs (about 3 oz)
- to taste black pepper
- 3.5 oz cream cheese, spreadable (about 1/2 cup)
- parsley
- green olives (pitted)
- crushed pistachios
- roasted pepper (roasted)
For the Sandwich Cake you will need
- 1 Small bowl
- 1 Tray
- 1 Spatula
Preparation: Sandwich Cake
Prepare the pesto cream. In a bowl mix 3.5 oz (about 1/2 cup) of spreadable cream cheese with the Genovese pesto (about 3 tbsp).
On a serving plate place the first layer of bread. Cover it with the Russian salad, spreading it into an even layer.
Cover with another slice of bread spread with the pesto cream and make a third layer of bread with cream cheese, black pepper and the cooked ham. Close with the last slice of bread.
Cover all the bread with a damp cloth and transfer it to the fridge for 1 hour. This will allow the bread to soften.
After resting, coat the entire cake with spreadable cream cheese.Decorate with parsley, sliced olives, crushed pistachios and sweet-and-sour roasted peppers.
Return to the fridge until serving. You can also prepare it the day before. The bread will soften properly and the flavors will meld perfectly.
Avoid
❌ Freezing: the mayonnaise in the Russian salad and the cheese will separate.
❌ Do not leave it at room temperature for more than 30–40 minutes.
❌ Light covering: the bread absorbs odors and dries out easily.
Useful Tips
Use very fresh ingredients.
Always keep the cake well chilled until serving.
If it’s hot, take it out of the fridge only when you are ready to cut it.

