Carnival Cake

Pumpkin Cake - a Surprising Delight

If you are looking for a cake that impresses with its appearance and taste, you have come to the right place! This pumpkin cake is not just a simple recipe, but a true festival of flavors and textures that will delight all your senses. With a fluffy base and a fragrant pumpkin filling, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Here’s how you can prepare it step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 5 large eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 150 g flour
- A pinch of salt
- 30 ml oil (preferably sunflower oil)
- A drop of vanilla essence (or almond essence for a unique twist)

For the filling:
- A deep dish of fragrant pumpkin (about 750 g)
- 150 g sugar (to sweeten the pumpkin)
- 4-5 star anise (for an exotic taste)
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
- 10 g gelatin (one packet)
- 2 packets of cake gel (to achieve a delicious jelly)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the base

1. Start by preheating the oven to 200°C (high heat). This will help the base bake evenly.
2. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until you achieve a glossy meringue.
3. In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the oil and vanilla essence until you have a homogeneous mixture.
4. Carefully fold the egg yolk mixture into the meringue, mixing with a spatula to retain the air in the egg whites.
5. Gradually add the flour and mix gently until combined.

Step 2: Baking the base

1. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the tray and level the surface.
2. Bake the base for 5 minutes at high heat, then reduce the temperature to 180°C and bake for another 15 minutes. Check if it’s baked using the toothpick method.
3. After baking, let the base cool in the tray for a few minutes, then carefully remove it from the parchment paper and cut it in half.

Step 3: Preparing the pumpkin filling

1. Cut the pumpkin into small cubes and place it in a pot with 750 g sugar, star anise, cinnamon, and 100 ml water.
2. Simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes or until the pumpkin becomes soft. During this time, the flavors will blend beautifully.
3. After the pumpkin has cooked, strain it from the remaining syrup, keeping it for the next step.

Step 4: Assembling the cake

1. Place the first half of the base on a platter. Pour the cooked pumpkin pieces on top, making sure to distribute them evenly.
2. Hydrate the gelatin in 100 ml cold water, then melt it in a double boiler. Pour the melted gelatin over the pumpkin and mix well.
3. Place the second half of the base over the pumpkin filling and gently press to adhere.
4. Use the reserved syrup to prepare the jelly. Dissolve the cake gel according to the package instructions in the remaining juice and bring it to a boil.
5. Pour the hot jelly over the cake and let it cool. It is recommended to refrigerate it for a few hours, preferably overnight, for the jelly to set.

Serving and Suggestions

Once the cake has cooled completely, it is ready to be cut into pieces and served. You can decorate it with a few slices of fragrant pumpkin or whipped cream for an extra touch of flavor. This pumpkin cake is perfect for a festive meal or a gathering with friends.

Helpful Tips

- Choosing the pumpkin: Make sure to choose a sweet and fragrant pumpkin, ideal for pies. Hokkaido or Butternut pumpkins are excellent for this recipe.
- Jelly consistency: If you prefer a firmer jelly, you can add an extra packet of cake gel.
- Variations: You can experiment with various spices, such as ginger or nutmeg, to add another layer of flavor.
- Recommended drinks: This cake pairs perfectly with fruit tea, warm cider, or even a glass of sweet white wine.

Nutritional Benefits

Pumpkin is an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin A, which is essential for eye health, and fiber, which improves digestion. This cake will not only delight your taste buds but also provide you with valuable nutrients.

Enjoy your meal! This cake is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that will bring a smile to your face and make you come back for another slice. Savor every bite and share it with your loved ones!

 Ingredients: Base: 5 eggs, 150 g sugar, 150 g flour, a pinch of salt, 30 ml oil, a vanilla essence filling. Jelly: a deep plate of spiced pumpkin pie, cut into small cubes, approx. 750 g sugar, 4-5 star anise, a pinch of cinnamon, a packet of gelatin (10 g), 2 packs of cake jelly.

 Tags:  carnival cake