Cake, Alexandra

Cake "Alexandra" – A Delicacy with a Story

Cooking is more than just a simple activity; it is an art, a way to create memories and bring joy to loved ones. Today, I invite you to prepare a special cake together, dedicated to my brother's friend, Alexandra. This cake, inspired by the classic "Black Forest", is dressed in fondant, adding a touch of elegance and sweetness. Whether it's for a birthday, a celebration, or simply to celebrate a beautiful day, this cake will win any heart. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes (for 3 layers)
Total time: 90 minutes + cooling time
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

For the layers:
- 6 eggs
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 240 g sugar
- 3 vials of vanilla essence
- 3 tablespoons cocoa

For the cream:
- 400 g Primola white chocolate
- 300 g liquid cream
- 1 vial of vanilla essence
- 250 g pitted cherries (you can also use canned cherries)
- 1 packet of Dr. Oetker gelatin

For the fondant:
- 400-450 g Coronita powdered sugar
- 1 heaping tablespoon gelatin
- 4 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon margarine
- 2 tablespoons honey

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the layers
Start by separating the egg yolks from the egg whites. Beat the egg whites with 120 g of sugar until you get a stiff, shiny foam. In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the remaining 120 g of sugar for 5-7 minutes until they become a light-colored cream and double in volume. Add the vanilla essence, cocoa, and sifted flour. Gently fold in with a plastic spatula to avoid losing the air in the mixture.

Step 2: Baking the layers
Divide the mixture into 3 equal parts and pour each part into the 26 cm detachable cake pans lined with oiled parchment paper. Bake each layer at 180°C for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let the layers cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 3: Preparing the cream
Meanwhile, break the white chocolate into small pieces. In a pot, combine the chocolate with 200 g of liquid cream and heat over low heat, stirring continuously until the chocolate is completely dissolved. Let the mixture cool. In a small bowl, hydrate the gelatin in 6 tablespoons of water for 10 minutes, then heat it over low heat without letting it boil. Whip the remaining liquid cream until stiff, then add the vanilla essence and the cooled chocolate mixture. Finally, fold in the dissolved gelatin.

Step 4: Assembling the cake
On a platter, place the first layer. Add half of the cream, followed by a layer of cherries. Continue with the second layer, the remaining cream, the cherries, and finally cover with the last layer. Wrap the cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to set well.

Step 5: Preparing the fondant
In a small saucepan, hydrate the gelatin in water and heat over low heat until dissolved. In a large bowl, combine the powdered sugar with honey, then add the gelatin mixture and margarine. Knead until you get a smooth, elastic paste. If necessary, add more powdered sugar to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 6: Decorating the cake
Remove the cake from the refrigerator and turn it out onto a platter. Spread a thin layer of buttercream over the cake to help the fondant stick. Using a rolling pin, roll out the fondant between two sheets of plastic and carefully place it over the cake. Decorate the cake to your liking – either with fondant flowers, grated chocolate, or fresh fruit.

Helpful tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- You can add a personal touch by decorating the cake with messages written in chocolate or with fresh fruits like strawberries or blackberries.
- If you want an easier version, you can skip the fondant and decorate the cake with whipped cream and grated chocolate.
- The "Alexandra" cake pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, as well as with a glass of sparkling wine.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake contains nutritious ingredients, such as white chocolate, which provides antioxidants, and cherries, which are rich in vitamins C and A, as well as fiber. Although it is an indulgent dessert, enjoyed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Estimated calories (per serving):
A serving of "Alexandra" cake has approximately 400-450 calories, depending on the serving size and the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?
Yes, you can experiment with strawberries, peaches, or even pineapple, depending on your preferences.
- Can I prepare the cake a few days in advance?
Definitely! The cake keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure it is covered to prevent it from drying out.

Whether you choose to prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, the "Alexandra" cake will surely bring smiles and good cheer. So, put on your chef's gloves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the creative cooking process!

 Ingredients: Layers: 6 eggs, 6 tablespoons of flour, 240 g sugar, 3 vials of vanilla essence, 3 tablespoons of cocoa. Cream: 400 g Primola white chocolate, 300 g liquid cream, 1 vial of vanilla essence, 250 g pitted cherries, 1 packet of Dr. Oetker gelatin. Sugar paste: 400 - 450 g powdered sugar Coronita, 1 heaping tablespoon of gelatin, 4 tablespoons of water, 1 teaspoon of margarine, 2 tablespoons of honey.

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