Caramel Cream Cake
Christmas Cake with Caramel Cream
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Number of servings: 12
Every year, when the holiday season arrives, we think of the traditions that make us feel at home. One of the most beloved desserts that brings joy and warmth to our souls is the cake with caramel cream. This recipe is not just a simple cake, but a true delicious story that combines the sweet flavors of caramel with the fluffy texture of the sponge. Let's discover together how we can prepare this divine cake that will delight Santa Claus!
Necessary ingredients:
- 12 fresh eggs
- 18 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 liter of milk (ideally whole for a richer cream)
- 4 tablespoons of flour (wheat flour is the most suitable)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 2 vanilla extracts (for an intense and aromatic flavor)
- 500 ml of vegetable whipped cream (for decoration)
- Fresh fruits for decoration (strawberries, kiwi, or berries are excellent options)
Preparing the cake:
1. Start by preheating the oven to 160 degrees Celsius. It is important to have the oven ready before putting the cake in, to achieve even baking.
2. Caramelizing the sugar: In an oven-safe dish, add the 6 tablespoons of sugar and put it on low heat. Stir constantly to prevent burning until the sugar turns into a golden caramel. Once caramelized, quickly spread it on the sides of the dish to create an even layer. Let it cool completely.
3. Preparing the cream: Take a large bowl and beat the 8 eggs with 8 tablespoons of sugar, the vanilla extracts, and the milk. Use an electric mixer to achieve a smooth and fluffy mixture. Pour this mixture over the hardened caramel in the dish.
4. Preparing the sponge: In another bowl, separate the 4 eggs. Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gradually add the 4 tablespoons of sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a glossy foam. Gently fold in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, flour, and baking powder using a spatula, being careful not to lose air from the mixture.
5. Pour the sponge batter over the cream mixture in the dish, taking care not to shake too much.
6. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, until the sponge pulls away from the sides of the dish. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 40 minutes to avoid a drop in temperature.
7. Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely for about 2 hours. This step is essential to allow the cake to stabilize.
8. Preparing the whipped cream: In a separate bowl, place the vegetable whipped cream and mix until it becomes stiff. Then, keep it in the refrigerator until the cake is decorated.
9. Assembling the cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully invert it onto a serving plate, so that the sponge is on the bottom and the cream on top. Now is the time to decorate the cake with whipped cream and fresh fruits. Choose fruits that provide a contrast of colors and flavors, so that the cake looks festive and appetizing.
10. Cut the cake into slices and serve it alongside a cup of tea or a glass of mulled wine, to enhance the holiday atmosphere. Enjoy!
Useful tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting for better results.
- When caramelizing the sugar, be careful with the heat. If the sugar burns, it will give a bitter taste to the cake.
- You can replace part of the milk with cream for an even richer taste and texture.
- If you don't have vanilla extract, you can use vanilla sugar or a vanilla pod for an intense flavor.
Nutritional benefits:
- Eggs are an excellent source of protein and vitamins, essential for a healthy diet.
- Milk provides calcium and B vitamins, being beneficial for bones and the nervous system.
- Fresh fruits bring antioxidants, fiber, and an extra boost of vitamins.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use duck eggs instead of chicken eggs?
Yes, duck eggs can be used, but keep in mind that they are larger and may alter the proportions.
2. How can I improve the texture of the cake?
Make sure not to overmix the batter, especially after adding the beaten egg whites.
3. Can I prepare the cake a day in advance?
Absolutely! The cake keeps well in the refrigerator and the flavors will intensify.
In conclusion, the Christmas cake with caramel cream is more than just a dessert; it is a tradition, a joy, and an opportunity to create beautiful memories with loved ones. Whether served at the Christmas table or at any special moment, this cake will bring smiles and warmth to everyone's hearts. So, put on your chef's attire, gather the ingredients, and get ready to impress!
Ingredients: Ingredients: 12 eggs, 18 tablespoons of sugar, 1 liter of milk, 4 tablespoons of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 2 vanilla extracts, 500 ml of vegetable cream, fruits for decoration.
