Viennese cake

The Viennese cake is a delicacy that adds a touch of elegance and refinement to any table, especially during the holiday season. This cake, with a perfect contrast between the moist base and the creamy layer on top, is suitable for both a family gathering and impressing guests. Let's get started and enjoy every step of this delicious process!

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Number of servings: 20-22 cakes

Ingredients
For the dough:
- 6 egg whites
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 5-6 tablespoons of sugar
- 10 tablespoons of ground walnuts
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa
- 200 g of unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla sugar
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- A drop of lemon juice
- A pinch of salt

For the topping (glaze):
- 6 egg yolks
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- Dark chocolate, for decoration

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the dough
1. Separating the eggs: Start by carefully separating the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure the bowl for the egg whites is clean and dry to achieve perfect foam.
2. Beating the egg whites: In a mixer, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they become light foam. Gradually add the sugar and 1 tablespoon of vanilla sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a glossy and firm foam.
3. Adding the butter: Ensure the butter is soft (at room temperature) and add it to the egg white mixture. Mix until fully integrated.
4. Including the dry ingredients: Add the cocoa, flour, and ground walnuts. Mix with a spatula using gentle folding motions to preserve the air in the egg whites.
5. Dissolving the baking powder: Dissolve the baking powder in a little lemon juice and add it to the mixture, mixing carefully again.

Step 2: Baking the base
1. Preparing the tray: Line a tray with parchment paper, then pour in the obtained mixture. Level the surface with a spatula.
2. Baking: Preheat the oven to medium heat (about 180°C) and bake the base for 20 minutes. Make sure not to open the oven in the first 15 minutes to allow the cake to rise evenly.

Step 3: Preparing the glaze
1. Mixing the egg yolks: While the base is baking, in a separate bowl, mix the 6 egg yolks with 6 tablespoons of sugar. Beat until you obtain a white and smooth cream. It is important for the sugar to dissolve completely.
2. Adding the glaze: After 20 minutes of baking, remove the tray from the oven and spread the egg yolk cream evenly over the baked base. Cover the entire surface well.

Step 4: Finalizing the baking
1. Final baking: Put the tray back in the oven and let it bake for another 20 minutes until the glaze becomes firm and slightly golden.
2. Cooling: Once ready, remove the tray from the oven and let the cake cool completely. Then, you can decorate it with grated chocolate on top for an elegant look and an added flavor.

Serving and combinations
The Viennese cake is served cold, cut into squares or triangles, and is perfect alongside a cup of coffee or tea. It can also be accompanied by vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream for a delicious contrast.

Nutritional Benefits
This cake is a good source of protein due to the eggs, while the nuts add healthy fats and fiber. Additionally, dark chocolate brings antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet. It should also be noted that the cake is high in calories, so it is best enjoyed in moderation.

Tips and suggestions
- Gluten-free version: You can replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or rice flour, for a cake suitable for those with intolerances.
- Various flavors: Experiment with flavors by adding orange or almond extracts to the glaze mixture. These will give a personalized and interesting touch to your cake.
- Storing the cake: If you do not consume it immediately, you can store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will remain fresh for up to 5 days.

Frequently asked questions
1. What type of chocolate should I use? Choose quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for a more intense flavor.
2. Can I use another type of nut? Certainly! You can experiment with pecans or hazelnuts, but make sure to grind them well so they integrate perfectly into the dough.
3. How do I know when the cake is ready? Check if the glaze is firm and slightly golden at the edges. You can do the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

This Viennese cake is more than just a simple recipe; it is a cooking experience that will delight your senses and bring joy to your loved ones. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and let’s create a masterpiece together! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: For the dough: 6 egg whites; 6 tablespoons flour; 5-6 tablespoons sugar; 10 tablespoons ground walnuts; 2 tablespoons cocoa; 200 g unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon vanilla sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; A little lemon juice; A pinch of salt; For the topping (glaze): 6 egg yolks; 6 tablespoons sugar; Dark chocolate

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