Queen Mary Cake

The Queen Maria Cake is a refined dessert that adds a touch of elegance to any occasion. This recipe, with delicious layers of fluffy sponge and a decadent cream, will delight your taste buds and leave an unforgettable impression on all who savor it. Although preparing this cake may seem a bit laborious, it is a process full of satisfaction and rewards. Whether you serve it at an anniversary, a celebration, or simply as a sweet treat, Queen Maria will surely become your favorite.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes (including baking)
Number of servings: 12-15 slices

Ingredients

For Sponge Cake 1:
- 6 large eggs (make sure they are fresh and at room temperature)
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 1 packet baking powder

For Sponge Cake 2:
- 6 egg whites (use fresh eggs for a firmer egg white)
- 200 g sugar
- 25-30 walnuts, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons flour

For Cream:
- 6 egg yolks
- 200 g sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa (choose a high-quality cocoa for an intense flavor)
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee (optional, for added flavor)
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 pack of butter (about 200 g, at room temperature)

Recipe History
The Queen Maria Cake has its roots in the culinary tradition of rich desserts, often associated with royalty and festivities. This elegant cake is a tribute to royalty, featuring a sophisticated appearance and a taste that brings joy. It is a dessert that has been prepared in many households, quickly becoming a favorite due to the perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Step by Step to Achieve a Perfect Result

Step 1: Preparing Sponge Cake 1
1. Separate the eggs: In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure there are no traces of yolk in the egg whites for them to whip well.
2. Whip the egg whites: Use an electric mixer to whip the egg whites until they become frothy. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until you achieve a firm, glossy foam.
3. Add the yolks: Incorporate the yolks, one at a time, gently folding with a spatula.
4. Incorporate the dry ingredients: Sift the flour together with the baking powder and fold them into the egg mixture with delicate movements to avoid losing air from the foam.
5. Bake the sponge: Pour the mixture into a greased and lined baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 30-35 minutes. Do not open the oven door during the first 30 minutes to prevent the sponge from collapsing.

Step 2: Preparing Sponge Cake 2
1. Whip the egg whites: In another bowl, whip the egg whites until frothy, gradually adding the sugar until you achieve a firm foam.
2. Add the walnuts and flour: Fold in the chopped walnuts and flour, mixing gently.
3. Bake the sponge: Pour the mixture into a parchment-lined baking pan. Bake at 180°C for 25-30 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3: Preparing the Cream
1. Heat the ingredients: In a saucepan, add the yolks, sugar, cocoa, instant coffee, and milk. Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy, similar to sour cream. It is important not to let it boil too much.
2. Cool and mix with the butter: Once the cream is ready, let it cool slightly, then incorporate the cubed butter, mixing well until smooth.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake
1. Place the sponges: On a platter, place the sponge cake as the base.
2. Add the cream: Spread 2/3 of the prepared cream over the sponge cake.
3. Add Sponge Cake 2: Place the walnut sponge on top of the cream.
4. Finish with cream: Spread the remaining cream over the cake.
5. Decorate: To taste, you can sprinkle shredded coconut, grated chocolate, or caramelized nuts for a special appearance and flavor.

Serving and Suggestions
The Queen Maria Cake is perfect served alongside a cup of aromatic coffee or delicate tea. You can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast between warm and cold. It is also an excellent choice for parties and festive events, where it will surely be admired.

Practical Tips
- Check the freshness of the ingredients: Use fresh eggs and quality ingredients for the best results.
- Ingredient temperature: Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy incorporation into the cream.
- Storing the cake: It can be kept in the refrigerator for a few days, but it is ideal to consume it within the first 2-3 days to enjoy its freshness.

Nutritional Benefits
This cake, although indulgent, contains protein from the eggs, healthy fats from the walnuts and butter, and antioxidants from the cocoa. However, when consumed in moderation, it is a treat that can be included in the diet, especially on special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can replace white flour with whole wheat flour, but the texture will be different, denser.

2. Can I add other ingredients to the cream?
Sure! You can add flavor extracts or even a splash of rum for a richer taste.

3. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the sponges and cream, but keep in mind that sweetness is an important element of the cake.

Queen Maria is not just a cake, but a culinary experience that brings joy and nostalgia. So, embrace this process and indulge your senses with every bite. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: Base 1: 6 eggs, 6 tablespoons sugar, 6 tablespoons flour, 1 packet baking powder. Base 2: 6 egg whites, 200 grams sugar, 25-30 chopped walnuts, 4 tablespoons flour. Cream: 6 egg yolks, 200 grams sugar, 2 tablespoons cocoa, 1 teaspoon instant coffee, 3 tablespoons milk, 1 pack of butter.