burnt sugar cake

Caramel Cake: a perfect delight for any occasion

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10

The history of caramel cake is fascinating, full of traditions and unforgettable moments. This dessert is a symbol of joy, often served at celebrations or family gatherings. Its combination of smooth cream and fluffy base makes it a favorite for many. Preparing it may seem a bit intimidating, but with the right steps, you will surely create a cake that will impress.

Necessary ingredients:

For the caramel cream:
- 5 eggs (make sure they are fresh for the perfect texture)
- 1 liter of milk (whole milk provides a richer cream)
- 50 g sugar for caramelizing (use white granulated sugar)
- 150 g sugar (refined sugar is the most suitable)
- 1 packet of vanilla (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)

For the base:
- 5 eggs (also fresh)
- 30 g cocoa (quality cocoa for an intense flavor)
- 120 g flour (white wheat flour)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (about 10 g)
- 120 g sugar (to sweeten the base)

For decoration:
- Whipped cream (you can use whipped or spray cream)
- Colorful candies (for a cheerful look)

Step by step:

1. Start by preparing the caramel cream. Take a heavy-bottomed pot and add 50 g of sugar. Place it over medium heat and stir constantly until it melts and turns into caramel. Be careful not to burn it, as the taste will be bitter. Once caramelized, quickly pour it into the bottom and on the sides of the pot, gently swirling to distribute it evenly.

2. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with 150 g of sugar, vanilla, and milk. Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved. Then, pour this mixture over the caramel in the pot. This is when the magic begins to take shape!

3. Preheat the oven to 160°C (low heat). Now, let’s prepare the base. In another bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form a foam and hold their shape. This step is essential for a fluffy base!

4. In another bowl, beat the yolks with 120 g of sugar until they become fluffy and light in color. Gradually add the flour mixed with cocoa and baking powder, gently folding with a spatula to avoid losing air from the mixture.

5. Fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture with gentle up-and-down movements. This will ensure a light and fluffy base.

6. Pour the base mixture over the caramel cream in the pot. Place the pot in a larger baking tray and fill the tray with hot water halfway up the pot. This is the bain-marie baking method, which will help achieve a creamy consistency for the caramel cream.

7. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the base is firm to the touch. Test with a toothpick: if it comes out clean, the cake is ready!

8. Once baked, let it cool in the pot for about 30 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving plate so that the caramel cream is visible.

9. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the next day. This waiting period will intensify the flavors and make the cake easier to cut.

10. On serving day, decorate the cake with whipped cream and colorful candies. This detail will add a touch of cheerfulness and make the dessert even more appealing.

Practical tips:
- If you want to enhance the flavor, you can add a few drops of almond essence to the caramel cream.
- You can experiment with different types of cocoa or whole wheat flour for a healthier taste.
- The caramel cake pairs perfectly with a flavored coffee or fruit tea, offering a complete culinary experience.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use store-bought eggs for this recipe?
Yes, but fresh eggs will provide a better texture and a more intense flavor.

2. How can I tell if the cake is done?
Do the toothpick test: if it comes out clean from the base, the cake is baked.

3. Can I substitute milk with another ingredient?
Yes, you can use almond milk or coconut milk for a lactose-free version, but the taste will change slightly.

This caramel cake is not just a dessert, but a true unforgettable experience filled with flavor and history. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, it is a delight that will not disappoint. So gather your ingredients and enjoy every step of this creative process!

 Ingredients: Base: 5 eggs, 30 g cocoa, 120 g flour, 1 baking powder, 120 g sugar. Burnt sugar cream: 5 eggs, 1 l milk, 50 g sugar for caramelizing, 150 g sugar, vanilla. Decoration: whipped cream, colored candies.