Cake by the meter (or Loaf by the meter)

Meter Cake: A Delicacy with Delicious Layers

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours (including cooling time)
Servings: 12

Welcome to our kitchen, where we will transform a classic meter cake recipe into a true culinary masterpiece! This delicious cake, also known as loaf cake, is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a birthday, a party, or simply an afternoon treat.

A Brief History of the Meter Cake

The origins of the meter cake are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed that this recipe was created to impress guests. Combining layers of loaf cake with a fine cream and decadent glaze, this cake becomes a symbol of hospitality and culinary skill. It is a recipe that has been passed down through generations, and today I will share my favorite version, received from my mother-in-law, Ani, who always brought a touch of magic to every dish.

Ingredients

For the Loaves (2 loaves):
- 7 large eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 400 g sugar (about 1 and ½ cups)
- 260 g flour (about 1 and ½ cups)
- 200 ml oil (about ½ cup)
- ½ packet baking powder (5 g)
- 1-2 tablespoons cocoa powder

For the Cream:
- 1 packet of pudding (vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, etc.)
- 300 ml milk
- 200 g sugar
- 200 g butter (80-82% fat)

For the Glaze:
- 200 g chocolate (dark or milk)
- 150 ml heavy cream
- 50 g butter

For Decoration:
- 50 g white chocolate

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Loaves

1. Prepare the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing. It is recommended to use fresh eggs, as they contribute to a fluffier texture.

2. Beating the egg whites: In a large bowl, add the egg whites and a pinch of salt. Beat them at high speed until they form a foam. Take your time; well-beaten egg whites will give structure to the cake.

3. Adding the sugar: While continuing to beat, gradually add the sugar, mixing until the mixture becomes glossy and firm.

4. Incorporating the flour: Sift the flour along with the baking powder and gradually add it to the egg white mixture. Use a spatula and gently fold in the flour with upward motions to avoid losing air.

5. Preparing the egg yolks: In a separate bowl, mix the egg yolks with the oil, adding it gradually, as you would for mayonnaise. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth emulsion.

6. Combining the ingredients: Once the egg yolks are well mixed, carefully fold them into the egg white mixture, continuing to use the spatula.

7. Dividing the mixture: Divide the batter into two equal parts. In one part, add the cocoa powder, mixing well to achieve an even color.

8. Baking: Pour each batter into loaf pans lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes. Check for doneness using the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the loaves are ready.

Step 2: Preparing the Cream

1. Cooking the pudding: Prepare the pudding according to the instructions on the package, using the specified amounts for the ingredients. It is essential to use whole milk for a richer cream.

2. Cooling the pudding: Allow the pudding to cool completely.

3. Preparing the butter: In a bowl, beat the softened butter until fluffy. Here’s a tip: make sure the butter is at room temperature for better incorporation.

4. Incorporating the pudding: Add the cooled pudding by the tablespoon, continuing to mix until you achieve a smooth and fine cream.

Step 3: Assembling the Cake

1. Slicing the loaves: Once the loaves have completely cooled, slice them into pieces about 1-1.5 cm thick.

2. Layering: Take a slice of yellow loaf, spread it with cream, and place a slice of brown loaf on top. Continue alternating layers, spreading each slice with cream, until you finish all the slices and the cream.

Step 4: Preparing the Glaze

1. Melting the chocolate: In a saucepan, place the broken chocolate, butter, and heavy cream. Set the saucepan over steam and stir until everything melts and combines. This glaze will add a decadent touch to the cake.

2. Glazing the cake: Cover the cake with the chocolate glaze, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Decorating

1. Preparing the decoration: Break the white chocolate into small pieces and place it in a bag. Submerge the bag in hot water for a few minutes. Then, cut a small corner of the bag and create diagonal stripes on the surface of the cake.

2. Final cooling: Place the cake in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours to allow the glaze to set and the flavors to meld.

Serving and Suggestions

I recommend serving the meter cake with a fruit tea or a creamy cappuccino. This combination will highlight the sweetness of the cake and provide a delightful culinary experience. You can also decorate it with fresh fruits or a scoop of ice cream for a contrast of textures.

Tips and Useful Advice

- Variations: You can experiment with different pudding flavors (chocolate, vanilla, strawberry) or add chopped nuts between layers for added texture.
- Storage: The cake can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It becomes even more delicious as the flavors meld.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil? Yes, olive oil will add a subtle flavor, but make sure it is a lighter olive oil.
- How can I make the cake moister? Drizzle a syrup made of water and sugar over the layers of loaf before covering them with cream.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! The meter cake is not just a recipe, but an opportunity to create delicious memories with loved ones. Happy cooking, and see you next time for another recipe!

 Ingredients: 2 Cakes: 7 eggs, a pinch of salt, 400 g sugar (1 1/2 cups), 260 g flour (1 1/2 cups), 200 ml oil (1/2 cup), 1/2 packet baking powder (5 g), 1-2 tablespoons cocoa. Cream: 1 packet pudding (vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, etc.), 300 ml milk, 200 g sugar, 200 g butter. Glaze: 200 g chocolate, 150 ml liquid cream, 50 g butter. Decoration: 50 g white chocolate.

 Tags:  meter cake