Cake Zina (the princess)

Zina Cake – A Royal Delicacy

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 15 minutes (including cooling)
Number of servings: 12-14

Today, I invite you to discover together a recipe named after a princess – Zina Cake. This refined cake, with a light sponge and delicious cream, was created to impress on any occasion. Whether you prepare it for an anniversary, a celebration, or simply to indulge your family, the result is always spectacular and tasty.

A Brief History

Zina Cake is inspired by pastry traditions, combining simple ingredients to create a sophisticated dessert. Using baking techniques and flavor combinations, this cake has gained popularity due to its rich taste and elegant appearance. Thus, each slice becomes a feast for the taste buds.

Ingredients

For the sponge:
- 9 eggs
- 250-260 g powdered sugar (choose a good quality sugar for a refined taste)
- 150 g flour (sifted to avoid lumps)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla sugar (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (though optional, it helps the sponge to be fluffier)

For the cream:
- 250 g butter (at room temperature for easy incorporation)
- approx. 320 g fruit Turkish delight (choose a quality one, without artificial colors)
- 1 orange (with peel and juice, but without seeds)
- 1 lemon (same, with peel and juice)

For decoration:
- approx. 250 g whipped cream (you can use natural or spray whipped cream, according to your preference)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the sponge:
Carefully separate the eggs, ensuring that the yolks do not mix with the whites. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy. Here, an electric mixer will prove useful, ensuring an airy and consistent foam. Continue to gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the mixture becomes stiff and shiny.

2. Incorporating the yolks:
Then add the yolks, sprinkle with vanilla essence, and gently mix just to combine.

3. Adding dry ingredients:
Sift the flour together with the baking powder directly into the bowl, mixing with a spatula or a wooden spoon. It is very important to achieve a homogeneous mixture, without lumps, for a perfect sponge.

4. Baking:
Prepare a baking tray with parchment paper (I recommend a tray with a diameter of 38 cm) and pour in the mixture. Place the tray in the preheated oven at medium heat (about 180 °C) for 35 minutes or until the sponge turns golden and passes the toothpick test. After baking, let the sponge cool completely, then remove the parchment paper and cut the sponge in half.

5. Preparing the cream:
To prepare the cream, pass the Turkish delight, orange, and lemon through a meat grinder. This step is essential, as it will give the cream a fine and aromatic texture. Mix the resulting puree with the whipped butter until you obtain a homogeneous and fluffy cream.

6. Assembling the cake:
Place the first half of the sponge in a clean tray, add half of the prepared cream, then place the second half of the sponge and top with the remaining cream. It is recommended to let the cake sit in the refrigerator for about 2 hours for the flavors to harmonize.

7. Decorating:
Before serving, cut the cake into portions of about 2.5x6 cm. Decorate each portion with whipped cream, adding a splash of color and a creamy taste. Let the cake chill for another hour before enjoying.

Practical Tips

- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Use a well-preheated oven to prevent the sponge from becoming dry.
- You can also add some chopped nuts or almonds to the Turkish delight cream for added texture.

Possible Variations

- Instead of fruit Turkish delight, you can use fruit jam or a fruit puree for a different note.
- If you want a more exotic flavor, add a few drops of almond essence to the butter cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of flour?
While wheat flour is ideal, you can experiment with whole wheat flour, but the texture will be different.

2. How do I store the cake?
Zina Cake keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days.

Ideal Pairings

This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of citrus tea or a strong espresso, which will contrast beautifully with the cake's sweetness. Additionally, a dry white wine can add a pleasant contrast, highlighting the citrus flavors.

Conclusion

Zina Cake is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and refinement to any moment of the day. Each slice is an invitation to savor life and celebrate special moments with loved ones. So embrace the art of cooking and turn every occasion into a celebration with this royal delicacy!

 Ingredients: Base: -9 eggs -250-260 g powdered sugar -150 g flour -1/2 teaspoon vanilla sugar -1/2 teaspoon baking powder (can be omitted) Cream: -250 g butter -about 320 g fruit nougat (should not be colored) -1 orange and a quarter (1.25) -1 lemon and a quarter (1.25) For decoration: -about 250 g whipped cream