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Ed
onMarch 18, 2025

Romanian Caramel and Walnut Wafers – Foi Lica

A plate of Romanian caramel and walnut wafers (Foi Lica), cut into diamond and rectangular shapes, showcasing crispy wafer layers filled with rich caramel and chopped walnuts.
4 min read

 

A classic Romanian dessert featuring crispy wafer layers filled with a rich, homemade caramel and walnut cream. This no-bake treat, known as "Foi Lica", is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or simply as an indulgent sweet treat. The deep caramel flavor, combined with crunchy walnuts and a hint of rum, makes this recipe an irresistible favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 35 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Romanian
Servings 9 pieces
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Wafers

  • 1 pack of wafer sheets ("Foi Lica") (usually 6 sheets, found in Eastern European stores)

For the Caramel and Walnut Filling

  • 450 g caster sugar
  • 250 g unsalted butter (80% fat minimum), cubed
  • 5 eggs
  • 300 g walnuts, chopped
  • 1 tsp rum essence
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Prepare Ingredients:

  • Separate 50g of sugar and mix it with the eggs until fully incorporated.
  • Chop the walnuts in a food processor to a rough consistency.
  • Cut the butter into small cubes for easy melting.

Make the Caramel:

  • In a large pan, add the remaining sugar and melt it slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally with a whisk.
  • Once the sugar turns a golden brown color, add the butter and whisk until fully combined.

Incorporate the Eggs:

  • Slowly pour in the egg mixture while whisking vigorously to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
  • Remove from heat and stir in chopped walnuts, rum essence, and salt. Mix well until smooth.

Assemble the Wafers:

  • Cover a working surface with cling film.
  • Place the first wafer sheet in the center (waffled side up).
  • Spread a thin, even layer of caramel-walnut filling across the entire sheet.
  • Repeat until all wafers are layered, finishing with a wafer sheet on top.

Set & Serve:

  • Wrap the entire cake tightly in cling film and place a heavy weight (like cookbooks) on top.
  • Let it rest for at least 3 hours (best overnight).
  • Once set, trim the edges, cut into rectangles or diamonds, and serve!

Notes

Step-by-step process of making Romanian caramel and walnut wafers (Foi Lica), including caramelizing sugar, adding butter and eggs, mixing in walnuts, layering wafer sheets with caramel filling, and setting the cake under weight before slicing into serving pieces.

A Traditional Romanian Dessert That Melts in Your Mouth!

Romanian caramel and walnut wafers, known as "Foi Lica", hold a special place in many hearts. These delicate wafer sheets are layered with a rich, velvety caramel cream infused with crunchy walnuts and a hint of rum essence. The result? A decadent treat that’s both crispy and creamy, perfect for any occasion.
Though these wafers are sold in stores under the name "Foi Lica", nothing compares to the homemade version. Unlike store-bought varieties, the homemade caramel and walnut filling offers a deep, authentic flavor that truly makes this dessert irresistible.

A Nostalgic Treat with a Holiday Twist 🎄💫

For many, Foi Lica is a cherished holiday dessert, often enjoyed around Christmas when children go caroling and receive sweet treats from generous neighbors. The delicate layers and caramelized aroma evoke warmth, joy, and childhood memories. However, this delicious wafer cake isn’t just for the holidays—it’s perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or simply as an indulgent snack with coffee or tea.
Recently, an Eastern European shop in town featured these nostalgic wafers on their shelves, inspiring a return to tradition. After securing a pack of wafers, it was time to recreate this delightful Romanian dessert at home. As the cake rested overnight under a stack of cookbooks, anticipation built, knowing that by morning, the flavors would have melded into perfection.

Why You'll Love This Recipe ❤️

✔️ Authentic Romanian dessert – A traditional favorite that’s stood the test of time.
✔️ Rich caramel flavor – A deep, buttery caramel perfectly complements the crunchy walnuts.
✔️ Easy to assemble – No baking required; just layering and patience!
✔️ Great for special occasions – A stunning, crowd-pleasing dessert for family and friends.

Expert Tips & Tricks 🔥

✅ Be careful with hot caramel! Never taste it while it's hot—it can cause severe burns.
✅ Prevent burning the sugar – Keep stirring occasionally while it melts to ensure an even caramelization.
✅ Avoid scrambling the eggs – Always whisk vigorously while slowly incorporating them into the hot caramel.
✅ Storage – Keep the wafers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Refrigeration may cause the wafers to harden.
✅ Make-ahead friendly – Preparing this dessert a day in advance enhances its flavor and texture.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know!

Can I use store-bought caramel instead of making it from scratch?

Technically, yes, but it’s not recommended. Homemade caramel has a deeper, richer flavor that truly makes this dessert special. If using store-bought caramel, ensure it’s the right consistency for spreading.

How long do these wafers last?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay fresh for up to a week.

Can I freeze the wafers?

Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

What’s the best way to serve these wafers?

✨ Perfect as a sweet treat after dinner.
☕ Pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.
🍷 Can be served with dessert wine for a gourmet touch.

Final Thoughts 💭

Romanian Caramel and Walnut Wafers ("Foi Lica") are the ultimate nostalgic treat—crispy, creamy, nutty, and deliciously sweet. Whether making them for the holidays or just as a special indulgence, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
So why not try making them at home? Once you take the first bite, you’ll understand why these wafers are cherished by so many! 💛
📌 Save this recipe and share it with friends! ✨
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Keyword Eastern European sweets, Foi Lica recipe, holiday desserts, homemade caramel walnut wafers, no-bake wafer cake, Romanian caramel walnut wafers, Romanian dessert
Ed
onMarch 18, 2025
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View Comments (1)
  1. SketchySpencer
    on July 14, 2025

    This sounds absolutely divine! The combination of crispy wafers, rich caramel, and crunchy walnuts is incredibly appealing. I’m intrigued by the use of rum – does it add a noticeable warmth to the overall flavor profile, or is it more subtle? I’m eager to try this recipe, especially since finding those wafer sheets sounds like an adventure in itself!

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