Selected cake

Select Cake

If you are looking for a dessert that will impress and indulge the senses, you have found the perfect recipe: the Select Cake! This decadent cake combines a moist walnut base with two types of delicious creams, creating an unforgettable experience in every slice. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself after a tiring day, this cake will surely become your favorite!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 2 hours (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:

For the base:
- 5 large eggs
- 10 tablespoons of sugar
- 10 tablespoons of ground walnuts
- 5 tablespoons of flour
- 1 tablespoon of cocoa
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of rum essence

For the chocolate cream:
- 1 cup of brandy or milk
- 200 g sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa
- 1 tablespoon of instant coffee
- 1 package (250 g) of butter

For the diplomat cream:
- 3 egg yolks
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- 100 ml milk
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 200 g whipped cream
- 1 packet of gelatin Dr. Oetker
- Vanilla to taste

For decoration:
- 200-300 g whipped cream
- Cooking chocolate
- 1/2 orange

Step 1: Preparing the base

1. Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Prepare a cake pan (26 cm diameter) by lining it with baking paper or greasing it with butter and dusting with flour.

2. Separate the egg whites from the yolks. Whisk the egg whites with 5 tablespoons of sugar until you obtain a firm and shiny meringue. This step is essential for giving the base a fluffy texture.

3. In another bowl, whisk the yolks with the remaining 5 tablespoons of sugar until they become a creamy, light-colored mixture.

4. Add the ground walnuts, flour, cocoa, rum essence, and baking powder dissolved in vinegar or lemon juice. Mix well.

5. Carefully fold the meringue into the yolk mixture using a spatula to retain the air in the egg whites.

6. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the base to cool completely at room temperature.

Step 2: Chocolate cream

1. In a double boiler, whisk the whole eggs with the sugar. Continue mixing until the mixture thickens.

2. Add the brandy or milk and mix well. This step adds a delicate and aromatic flavor to the chocolate cream.

3. Once the cream has thickened, remove it from heat and add cocoa and instant coffee. Mix until smooth.

4. Let the cream cool, then fold in the cubed butter, mixing until completely melted and you obtain a smooth cream.

Step 3: Diplomat cream

1. In another double boiler, whisk the yolks with the sugar, add hot milk and cornstarch. Continue mixing until it thickens.

2. Let the cream cool, stirring occasionally to prevent a crust from forming.

3. Add the hydrated gelatin according to the package instructions and the whipped cream, gently mixing to preserve volume.

Step 4: Assembling the cake

1. Once the base has completely cooled, cut it into two equal parts.

2. Use the same pan in which you baked the base, lined with plastic wrap. Place one layer of base and soak it with a syrup made of water and sugar, if desired.

3. Pour half of the diplomat cream, then place another layer of base, followed by the chocolate cream, and finally the last layer of base.

4. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cake for a few hours (minimum 4 hours) to allow the cream to set.

Step 5: Decorating the cake

1. Once the cake has set, carefully turn it out onto a serving platter.

2. Whip the remaining cream and decorate the top of the cake. You can create different shapes, stripes, or flowers from the cream for an elegant look.

3. Melt the cooking chocolate and use it to decorate the cake. An interesting idea is to create shapes with the melted chocolate, such as spirals or lines.

4. Cut the orange in half, then into thin slices, dip the slices in hot honey, then let them cool. Place the orange slices on the cake for a delicious and aromatic contrast.

Useful tips:

- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start making the cake for the best results.
- If you want an alcohol-free version, you can replace the brandy with milk or vanilla-flavored water.
- The cake can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it is best served fresh.

Nutritional benefits:

This cake, although rich in calories, also offers nutritional benefits through the ingredients used. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while chocolate contains antioxidants. Egg yolks provide essential vitamins and minerals. However, moderation is essential, considering the amount of sugar and butter.

Perfect pairings:

The Select Cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a flavored tea. You can try a creamy cappuccino or a fruit tea to complete the tasting experience.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of nuts for the base?
Yes, you can replace walnuts with almonds or hazelnuts, but make sure to grind them well.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reducing the amount of sugar in the creams can help, but you will lose some of the cake's characteristic sweetness.

3. Can I prepare the cake a day in advance?
Yes, the cake keeps very well in the refrigerator and becomes even tastier as the flavors meld.

I hope you find this recipe captivating and that it inspires you to create a delicious Select Cake! Each slice is a celebration of flavors and aromas, so don't hesitate to enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: Base: 5 eggs, 10 tablespoons of sugar, 10 tablespoons of walnuts, 5 tablespoons of flour, 1 tablespoon of cocoa, 1 pinch of baking powder, rum essence. Chocolate cream: 1 cup of brandy or milk, 200g sugar, 2 eggs, 2 tablespoons of cocoa, 1 tablespoon of instant coffee, 1 pack of butter. Diplomat cream: 3 egg yolks, 8 tablespoons of sugar, 100ml milk, 1 tablespoon of starch, 200g whipped cream, vanilla, 1 packet of gelatin, Dr. Oetker. Decoration: 200-300g whipped cream, cooking chocolate, half an orange.