Orion Cake
Orion Cake - a symphony of autumn flavors
Imagine a cake that combines a fluffy cocoa base, a fine cream cheese filling, a sweet peach sauce, and a crunchy topping of roasted hazelnuts. This is the Orion cake, a perfect delicacy for cool autumn evenings. With each slice, you will feel how the flavors intertwine in a perfect harmony, bringing you joy and comfort. Let's embark on our culinary journey!
Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 16
Ingredients:
For the base:
- 100 g butter or margarine
- 5 egg yolks
- 1 pinch of salt
- 10 tablespoons of milk
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa
- 5 tablespoons of flour
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
For the cream cheese:
- 5 egg whites
- 2 egg yolks
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 360 g cream cheese with sour cream
- 1 pinch of salt
- A little lemon zest
For the peach sauce:
- 7 peaches
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of water
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- Additionally: 2 tablespoons of sugar
For the hazelnut topping:
- A few hazelnuts
- Salt
Preparation:
Step 1: Peach sauce
We start with the peach sauce, as it will add a rich layer of flavor to the cake. Wash the peaches and slice them thinly. In a saucepan, add the sugar, vanilla sugar, and water, then place the mixture over low heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves. Add the peach slices and let them simmer for about 5 minutes. This is when the flavors will intensify, and the peaches will become tender. Turn off the heat and let the sauce cool.
Step 2: The base
Now, let’s prepare the base. In a large bowl, cream the margarine or butter with the sugar and vanilla sugar until you achieve a fluffy mixture. Add the cocoa and mix well. Next, incorporate the egg yolks one by one, ensuring each is well mixed before adding the next. Add the milk, flour, and baking powder, mixing until you have a uniform mixture.
Step 3: Baking the base
Prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Pour the base mixture into the tray and level the surface. Bake the base in a preheated oven at 180°C (medium heat) for 10 minutes. Check if it is baked by inserting a toothpick in the center – if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
Step 4: Cream cheese
While the base is baking, prepare the cream cheese. In a bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form a firm and glossy foam. In another bowl, mix the cream cheese with the sugar, egg yolks, and lemon zest. Carefully fold the meringue into the cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate it.
Step 5: Assembling the cake
When the base is ready, take it out of the oven and sprinkle a little breadcrumbs on its surface to prevent sticking. Pour the cream cheese evenly over the base, then sprinkle a little more breadcrumbs. Arrange the peach slices on top and sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar. Put the cake back in the oven and bake for 30 minutes on low heat.
Step 6: Hazelnut topping
In the last few minutes of baking, take care of the hazelnuts. Place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little salt, and let them toast. When they are ready, let them cool slightly, then grind them using a grinder until you get a fine powder.
Step 7: Decorating the cake
After the cake has completely cooled, sprinkle the crushed hazelnuts on top. This layer will not only provide an attractive appearance but also a crunchy texture, perfect to complement the fluffy base and fine cream.
Practical tips:
1. You can use fresh peaches or even canned peaches, depending on the season. If you choose canned peaches, make sure to drain them well.
2. If you want a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the cream cheese.
3. A delicious variation would be to add a few drops of vanilla extract to the cream cheese for an even more refined taste.
4. Instead of hazelnuts, you can use walnuts or roasted almonds for another interesting flavor.
Nutritional benefits:
This cake is not just a delicacy but also a source of nutrients. The cream cheese provides protein and calcium, while peaches are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Additionally, cocoa contains antioxidants that may contribute to heart health.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits for the sauce?
Of course! You can try apricots, plums, or even berries for a different variant.
2. How can I store the cake?
The Orion cake keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Serving:
The Orion cake is served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a caramel sauce for a sweet and creamy contrast. A cup of herbal tea or fresh lemonade pairs perfectly alongside!
Enjoy your meal! If you liked this recipe, feel free to share it with friends and family. Cooking is an act of love, and the Orion cake is definitely a choice that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones!
Ingredients: For the crust: 100 g butter or margarine; 5 egg yolks; 1 teaspoon of salt; 10 tablespoons of milk; 2 tablespoons of cocoa; 5 tablespoons of flour; 1 packet of baking powder; 1 packet of vanilla sugar; 3 tablespoons of sugar; For the cheese cream: 5 egg whites + 2 egg yolks; 4 tablespoons of sugar; 360 g cream cheese with sour cream; 1 pinch of salt; A little lemon zest; For the peach sauce: 7 peaches; 3 tablespoons of sugar; 1 tablespoon of water; 1 packet of vanilla sugar; additionally: 2 tablespoons of sugar; For the nut layer: A few hazelnuts; salt;
