Vanilla cake

Vanilla Cake with Walnut and Decorative Roses

A perfect vanilla cake is a true masterpiece of baking, a delight that combines sweet taste with a delicate aroma of walnut and vanilla. This dessert not only pleases the taste buds but also the eyes, thanks to its elegant decoration. In this recipe, I will show you step by step how to prepare a vanilla cake with a light and fluffy base, filled with a fine cream and decorated with whipped cream roses. It is an ideal recipe for special occasions, but also to pamper your family on an ordinary day.

Preparation Time:
- Active time: 1 hour
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Number of servings: 10 servings

Ingredients:

*For the base:*
- 7 eggs (make sure they are at room temperature for better whipping)
- 7 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 3 tablespoons of flour (preferably white flour type 000)
- 10 tablespoons of ground walnuts (the walnuts add a rich flavor and texture)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (to ensure fluffiness)
- A pinch of salt (the salt will enhance the sweetness)

*For the syrup:*
- 500 ml water (you can use mineral water for extra flavor)
- 6 tablespoons of sugar (you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 1 essence of rum (for a touch of elegance)

*For the cream:*
- 1 package of vanilla-flavored cake cream Dr. Oetker (or another preferred brand)
- 2-3 tablespoons of sugar (adjust according to preferences)
- 250 ml milk (use whole milk for a richer cream)

*For decoration:*
- 200 ml liquid cream (make sure it is cold for better whipping)
- Strawberry jam (to add a fruity note and color)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the base:
Start by separating the eggs. Put the egg whites in a large bowl and add a pinch of salt. Using a mixer or food processor, beat the egg whites until they become frothy. Then, gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until you achieve a stiff and glossy foam.

Add the yolks one by one, gently mixing with a spatula. At this point, you can add the baking powder, sifted flour, and ground walnuts. Mix gently, with up-and-down motions, to avoid losing air from the foam.

Pour the obtained mixture into a round pan lined with baking paper and level the surface. Bake the base in a preheated oven at 180°C for 30 minutes. Check if it is baked by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the base is ready.

2. Preparing the syrup:
In a saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved. After it boils, remove from heat and add the rum essence. Let the syrup cool down.

3. Preparing the cream:
In a bowl, mix the cream powder with the cold milk and sugar. Use a mixer to achieve a creamy consistency. This will be the base for filling the cake and for decoration.

4. Assembling the cake:
After the base has completely cooled, cut it into two equal parts. The syrup should also be cold to avoid soaking the base too much. Soak each half of the base with the rum syrup, being careful not to overdo it, so the cake does not become too soft.

Fill the cake with a portion of the vanilla cream, spreading it evenly. Save a portion of cream for decoration.

5. Decorating the cake:
Whip the liquid cream with a mixer until it becomes firm. You can add a small amount of strawberry jam, mixing gently to achieve a pink hue. Use this colored cream to create roses on the cake.

To decorate the cake, use a star-shaped piping tip. Practice on a plate before applying it to the cake. Start with a small circle in the center and continue to swirl around it, forming the petals. Be bold and create varied shapes!

Serving:
The vanilla cake is served cold, perfect alongside a cup of tea or coffee. You can accompany it with chocolate sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even more decadent dessert.

Nutritional Benefits:
This cake contains ingredients like walnuts, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, the use of milk and cream adds essential calcium and proteins. However, it is important to consume this cake in moderation, considering its sugar and fat content.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of nuts? Absolutely! Almonds or hazelnuts are excellent in this recipe.
- How can I make the cake without eggs? You can use an egg substitute, such as banana puree or yogurt.
- What other flavors can I add? You can experiment with almond, orange, or lemon essences for a unique flavor.

This vanilla cake is not just a recipe, but an experience. I encourage you to enjoy every step of the cooking process, to put your personal touch on it, and to serve it with love to your dear ones. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: For the cake base we need: 7 eggs; 7 tablespoons of sugar; 3 tablespoons of flour; 10 tablespoons of walnuts; a pinch of baking powder; a pinch of salt. For the cream we need: 1 package of vanilla-flavored cake cream from Dr.Oetker; 2-3 tablespoons of sugar; 250 ml of milk. For the syrup we need: 500 ml of water; 1 essence of rum; 6 tablespoons of sugar. For decoration we need: 200 ml of liquid cream; strawberry jam.