Cake 80 ++

Cake 80++: A Delicious Celebration for a Life Full of Energy!

On grandpa's birthday, I decided to prepare a special cake that reflects not only his venerable age of 80 years but also his playful and lively spirit. This "Cake 80++" is a combination of soft sponge, decadent truffle filling, and a fine cream cheese frosting, all coming together to create an unparalleled taste experience. Let’s discover step by step how to prepare this delicacy!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the sponge cake (no need for soaking):
- 1 + 3/4 cups flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 3/4 cup cocoa
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup strong coffee (ideal for an intense flavor)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or 3/4 cup full-fat yogurt + 1/4 cup milk)
- 1/2 cup oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the truffle cream:
- 240 grams chocolate (choose quality chocolate)
- 200 grams butter at room temperature
- 6 tablespoons liquid cream
- 6 tablespoons chopped toasted nuts (for added texture)

For the cream cheese frosting:
- 6 tablespoons soft butter
- 200 grams cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For decoration:
- Chopped nuts
- 12 Raffaello candies with almonds (optional, but highly recommended for a festive look)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the sponge
We start with the sponge, which is the base of the cake. There are two methods to prepare it, so I will detail both:

Option 1 (traditional method):
1. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.
2. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to mix on low speed. Then, add the yolks one by one, followed by the vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the oil, mixing gently. The next step is to incorporate the buttermilk and coffee alternately to achieve a smooth mixture.
4. In another bowl, sift the flour, cocoa, baking soda, and baking powder. Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring with a spatula or large spoon with slow movements to avoid losing air in the sponge.

Option 2 (quicker method):
1. Sift the flour with the cocoa, baking soda, and baking powder into a large bowl. Make a well in the center.
2. In another container, combine the eggs, coffee, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract. Pour the mixture into the well of the dry ingredients and mix for 2 minutes until smooth.

Whichever option you choose, pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 30-35 minutes. Check with a toothpick – if it comes out clean, the sponge is ready! Allow it to cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Preparing the truffle cream
1. Melt the chocolate together with the cream over a double boiler. Stir continuously until fully combined.
2. Once the chocolate has melted, remove it from heat and, if using dark chocolate, add the sugar. Allow it to cool to room temperature.
3. Once the chocolate mixture has cooled, add the cubed butter and incorporate it carefully until you achieve a smooth cream. Add the chopped toasted nuts for extra flavor.

Step 3: Preparing the cream cheese frosting
1. Beat the soft butter until creamy and light in color.
2. Incorporate the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix again until smooth.
3. Add the cream cheese and continue mixing until you achieve a smooth and even frosting.

Step 4: Assembly
1. Cut the sponge in half horizontally. On the first half, spread a generous layer of truffle cream, then cover with the other half of the sponge.
2. Spread the cream cheese frosting on top and around the sides of the cake. Use a spatula to create a smooth appearance or, if you prefer, leave it more rustic.
3. Decorate the cake with chopped nuts and, for a festive look, add the Raffaello candies.

Serving Suggestions
This cake is perfect served alongside a cup of strong coffee or fragrant tea. Additionally, vanilla or coffee ice cream alongside a slice of this cake will create an unforgettable combination!

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute buttermilk?
Yes, you can use yogurt or milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar (let it sit for 5 minutes) as an alternative.

2. How do I know when the sponge is baked?
Do the toothpick test: insert a toothpick in the center and if it comes out clean, the sponge is ready.

3. Can it be prepared in advance?
Absolutely! The cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, and the flavors will intensify.

Nutritional Benefits
This cake, besides being delicious, contains ingredients that provide nutritional benefits. Cocoa is rich in antioxidants, and nuts provide healthy fats. Additionally, cream cheese adds a source of calcium, important for bone health.

With every slice of this Cake 80++, you will feel the joy of celebrating not just an age, but a life full of beautiful moments and memories. So, don’t hesitate, gather your ingredients and get cooking! This cake will surely become the star of any celebration!

 Ingredients: Base (no need for soaking): 1+3/4 cups flour, 2 cups sugar, 3/4 cup cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons baking soda, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup strong coffee, 1 cup buttermilk (3/4 cup full-fat yogurt + 1/4 cup milk), 1/2 cup oil, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Truffle cream: 240g chocolate (!!! if using dark chocolate, add 200g powdered sugar), 200g butter at room temperature, 6 tablespoons liquid cream, 6 tablespoons finely chopped roasted nuts. Cream cheese frosting: 6 tablespoons soft butter, 200g cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract + for decoration: chopped nuts, 12 Raffaello candies with hazelnuts.

 Tags:  cream cheese nut chocolate cake