Chocolate cream cake

Cocoa Cream Cake: A Flavorful Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 10

Who doesn't love a cocoa cream cake? This classic recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you're celebrating a special event or simply want to indulge in a delicious dessert. The cocoa cream cake is a true delight, with a fluffy base, a smooth cream, and elegant decoration. I will guide you step by step in preparing this cake, adding practical tips and details about each ingredient.

A Brief History of Cocoa Cream Cake

Cocoa cakes have a long history, rooted in pastry traditions around the world. Cocoa, a staple ingredient in making sweets, has been used for centuries not only for its rich flavor but also for its nutritional benefits. Cream cakes, especially those with cocoa, became popular due to their moist texture and the perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness.

Necessary Ingredients

For the dough (24 cm diameter pan):
- 6 egg whites
- 8 tablespoons sugar
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 tablespoons plum jam
- 1 tablespoon deodorized oil
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon

For the cream:
- 6 egg yolks
- 180 g butter
- 1 packet gelatin (10 g)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 150 g sugar
- 4 tablespoons cocoa

For the syrup:
- 100 ml water
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee
- 2 teaspoons sugar

For decoration:
- coconut flakes
- cherries
- 1 banana

Step by Step: Preparing the Cake

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Beat the egg whites: In a large bowl, add the 6 egg whites and a pinch of salt. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the sugar: Gradually, while continuing to mix, add the 8 tablespoons of sugar until it dissolves completely and the mixture becomes glossy.
3. Incorporate the dry ingredients: Sift together the 6 tablespoons of flour with 1 teaspoon of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon. Add the flour mixture to the egg white foam, gently folding it in with a spatula or wooden spoon from the bottom up to avoid deflating the egg whites.
4. Add the jam and oil: Fold in the 3 tablespoons of plum jam and 1 tablespoon of oil. Mix gently until the mixture is homogeneous.
5. Bake the base: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the base to cool completely.

Step 2: Preparing the Cream

1. Mix the egg yolks: In a bowl, combine the 6 egg yolks with 150 g of sugar and 1 packet of vanilla sugar. Place the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly.
2. Melt the sugar: Continue stirring until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture becomes creamy. Be careful not to let it boil!
3. Add the butter: Once the sugar is melted, add 180 g of diced butter and stir until completely melted.
4. Incorporate the cocoa: Sift the 4 tablespoons of cocoa and add it to the mixture, stirring well to avoid lumps.
5. Add the gelatin: Prepare the gelatin according to the package instructions and add it to the cream mixture, stirring well. Allow the cream to cool.

Step 3: Preparing the Syrup

1. Boil the water: In a small saucepan, bring 100 ml of water to a boil.
2. Mix the sugar and coffee: In a bowl, mix the 2 teaspoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of instant coffee. Add the hot water and stir until the sugar completely dissolves. Allow the syrup to cool.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake

1. Cut the base: Once the base has cooled, cut it horizontally into two equal parts.
2. Soak the base: Using a pastry brush, soak each half of the base with the coffee syrup, ensuring it is well moistened.
3. Add the cream: Spread half of the cream on the first piece of base, then place the second piece on top and cover it with the remaining cream.

Step 5: Decorating the Cake

1. Sprinkle coconut flakes: Cover the entire surface of the cake with coconut flakes, giving it an elegant and delicious appearance.
2. Add the fruits: Slice the banana into rounds and arrange them around the edge of the cake. Place the cherries in the center as a vibrant decoration.
3. Cooling: Allow the cake to chill for at least 3-4 hours, but ideally, leave it overnight to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.

Serving Suggestions and Combinations

This cocoa cream cake pairs perfectly with a cup of aromatic coffee or fruit tea. You can also serve it with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for a delicious contrast and elegant presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I replace the plum jam?
Of course! You can use any type of jam you prefer, such as apricot or raspberry, to add a different note to the cake.

2. How can I make the cream lighter?
If you want a lighter version, you can replace part of the butter with mascarpone cheese or cream to achieve a lighter texture.

3. Is this cake suitable for vegans?
To make it vegan, you can use aquafaba (chickpea water) for the egg whites and vegan butter. Additionally, gelatin can be replaced with agar-agar.

Nutritional Benefits

The cocoa cream cake contains nutrient-rich ingredients. Cocoa is high in antioxidants, and eggs provide essential proteins. However, it is best to enjoy this cake in moderation, considering its sugar and fat content.

Final Note

This cocoa cream cake recipe will not only impress your guests but also bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Experiment with flavors and decorations to make it truly unique. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: For the dough (for a 24 cm diameter tray): -6 egg whites -8 tablespoons sugar -6 tablespoons flour -1 teaspoon baking powder -3 tablespoons plum jam -1 tablespoon deodorized oil -half a teaspoon cinnamon For the cream: -6 egg yolks -180 g butter -1 packet gelatin (10 g) -1 packet vanilla sugar -150 g sugar -4 tablespoons cocoa For the syrup: -100 ml water -1 teaspoon instant coffee -2 teaspoons sugar For decoration: -coconut flakes -cherries -1 banana