simple and easy vanilla cookies

Vanilla Cake: A Simple and Delicious Indulgence

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 90 minutes
Total Time: 110 minutes
Number of Servings: 12

Welcome to the world of simple yet delightful desserts! Today, I will unveil the wonderful recipe for vanilla cake, a perfect choice for any occasion, but also for those moments when you want to treat yourself to something sweet without too much effort. This vanilla cake is a perfect combination of a soft and creamy texture, with an intense vanilla flavor that will make you return to this recipe again and again.

A bit of history behind the recipe: Vanilla cakes are a modern take on traditional desserts that have evolved over time, maintaining their essence of simple yet flavorful sweets. Vanilla, a precious ingredient, has been used for centuries in dessert-making, bringing an unmistakable fragrance and a sweet aroma. This cake proves to be a true treasure, being easy to make yet full of flavor.

Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 300 g granulated sugar
- 1 liter cold milk (from the fridge)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 package (250 g) butter or margarine, at room temperature
- 12 tablespoons of flour
- A pinch of salt (optional, to enhance the flavor)

Necessary Utensils:
- A large mixing bowl
- A whisk or spatula
- A baking tray (approximately 30x20 cm)
- Baking paper (to line the tray)
- A mixer (to beat the egg whites)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the butter, which should be soft for easy incorporation. It is recommended to take the milk out of the fridge a few minutes before starting the recipe.

2. Mixing the Egg Yolks: In a large bowl, add the four egg yolks and granulated sugar. Using a whisk, mix well for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes homogeneous and slightly lighter in color. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy cake.

3. Incorporating Butter and Vanilla: Add the soft butter and vanilla sugar to the bowl. Continue mixing until the butter is fully incorporated and the mixture becomes creamy.

4. Adding the Milk: Pour the cold milk into the egg yolk mixture and mix well to achieve a uniform composition. It is normal for the butter to separate slightly from the milk; this will not affect the final result.

5. Incorporating the Flour: Sift the flour directly into the bowl in small portions, mixing with a whisk to avoid lumps. Add the flour gradually and continue mixing until everything is well combined.

6. Preparing the Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the four egg whites with a pinch of salt until you obtain a firm and shiny foam. This step will help the cake to be fluffy and airy.

7. Combining the Mixtures: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the egg yolk mixture using a spatula. It is important to mix gently to avoid losing air from the egg whites.

8. Preparing the Tray: Grease the tray with butter and dust it with flour, ensuring it is well covered. This will prevent the cake from sticking.

9. Pouring the Mixture: Carefully pour the mixture into the prepared tray. Use a spatula to smooth the surface so that the cake bakes evenly.

10. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat) and place the tray in the oven. Bake for about 90 minutes. The cake is ready when it is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

11. Cooling: Let the cake cool in the tray for about 30 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. It is important not to cut the cake until it has completely cooled; otherwise, it will crumble.

Serving and Variations:
The vanilla cake can be served plain, dusted with powdered sugar on top, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chocolate sauce for a delicious contrast. You can also add fresh fruits, such as berries or banana slices on top, for a touch of freshness.

Tips and Useful Advice:
- For an even more intense vanilla flavor, you can add a few drops of natural vanilla extract to the mixture.
- If you want a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar by 50 g. The cake will still be just as delicious!
- Experiment with flavors: Instead of vanilla sugar, try using orange or lemon sugar for a citrus taste.

Nutritional Benefits:
This vanilla cake is not only delicious but also a source of protein from the eggs, healthy fats from the butter, and carbohydrates from the flour. However, it is important to consume it in moderation, as each serving has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the serving size and ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can the vanilla cake be frozen? Yes! You can freeze the cake after it has completely cooled. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap or in airtight containers.
- Can I replace butter with oil? While it is possible, the texture and taste will be different. Butter provides a rich flavor and a soft texture, while oil will make the cake more moist.

In conclusion, vanilla cake is a dessert that celebrates simplicity in a delicious way. Try this simple and easy recipe, and let yourself be carried away by its inviting aroma. Don't forget to share with your loved ones and enjoy every delicious slice!

 Ingredients: 4 eggs, 300g granulated sugar, 1l cold milk (from the fridge), 2 packets of vanilla sugar, 1 package of butter or margarine, 12 tablespoons of flour.