Taoko Cake

Taoko Cake: A Summer Delight with Vanilla Cream and Strawberries

If you are looking for a cheerful cake suitable for both children and adults, you have found the perfect recipe! The Taoko Cake is a delicious combination of ladyfingers, vanilla cream, whipped cream, and strawberries, making it an excellent choice for warm summer days. This cake not only looks amazing but is also easy to prepare, quickly becoming a favorite among loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: Approximately 16 (depending on portion size)

Ingredients:

- 300 g ladyfingers (or 1+ package)
- 200 ml brewed coffee (weak) or Inka drink (from chicory)
- 350 ml liquid cream (150 ml for cream + the rest for decoration)
- A few fresh strawberries

For the vanilla cream:

- 2 egg yolks (the whites can be used for another cake)
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 250 ml milk
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon Bourbon vanilla sugar (or vanilla seeds, if you have)
- 50 g butter
- 1 teaspoon ground coffee or Ness

The story behind the recipe:

The Taoko Cake is inspired by culinary traditions that combine simple yet flavorful ingredients. This cake is a cheerful twist on classic desserts, featuring an attractive appearance and wonderful taste. Although it uses ladyfingers and coffee, it is not a tiramisu; it is an original creation that brings joy in every slice.

Step by step: Preparing the cake

1. Preparing the vanilla cream:
In a small bowl, mix the 2 egg yolks with 3 tablespoons of sugar and the vanilla sugar. Once you have a smooth mixture, transfer it to a saucepan. Add the milk and sifted flour. Use a whisk to mix all the ingredients, ensuring there are no lumps.

2. Cooking the cream:
Place the saucepan over low heat and stir continuously. It is important not to leave the cream unattended to avoid lumps. When it begins to thicken, stir vigorously for one minute, then remove from heat. Add the butter and mix well until melted. The cream will continue to thicken as it cools, achieving a pudding-like consistency.

3. Preparing the coffee:
If you want to make it suitable for children, prepare an Inka drink instead of coffee. Allow the coffee or Inka drink to cool completely before using it.

4. Whipping the cream:
Use a mixer to whip the liquid cream until it becomes firm. This will add a layer of creaminess and lightness to the cake.

5. Assembling the cake:
Mix the vanilla cream with 150 ml of whipped cream and 1 teaspoon of ground coffee or Ness. Use the mixer to obtain a smooth mixture.

6. Soaking the ladyfingers:
Quickly dip the ladyfingers in the coffee or Inka drink. Do not leave them too long in the liquid to avoid excessive sogginess. Cooler coffee will help maintain the texture of the ladyfingers.

7. Layering the cake:
Place a layer of ladyfingers in the baking dish (you can use plastic wrap for easier removal). Add a layer of cream, followed by another layer of ladyfingers. Repeat this process until you finish the ingredients. Finally, place slices of strawberries and a layer of whipped cream on top.

8. Cooling and decorating:
Place the dish in the refrigerator for about an hour. This step is essential to allow the cake to set. After an hour, invert the cake onto a platter. Use the remaining whipped cream to decorate the cake, adding strawberry slices on top. Refrigerate again before serving.

Tips and tricks:
- You can add a citrus note by replacing part of the sugar with lemon or orange-flavored sugar.
- Experiment with other seasonal fruits like raspberries or blueberries to diversify the flavors.
- If you prefer less sweet desserts, reduce the amount of sugar in the vanilla cream.
- Serving with a glass of lemonade or iced tea adds a pleasant and refreshing contrast.

Nutritional benefits:
The Taoko Cake, although a dessert, contains ingredients that can offer benefits. Milk is a good source of calcium, and strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Additionally, while whipped cream is calorie-dense, it provides a creamy texture that makes the cake truly special.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can the cake be made a day in advance? Yes, absolutely! The cake will improve as the flavors meld.
- Can I use another type of milk? Yes, almond or soy milk are excellent options for vegans or those with lactose intolerance.
- How can I store the cake? You can keep it covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

This cake is not only an explosion of flavors but also brings joy in every bite. Don't hesitate to try it! Enjoy!