Chessboard

To prepare a delicious chessboard-style cake, start by gathering the necessary ingredients. You will need 250 grams of margarine (or butter, if you prefer a richer taste), 350 grams of sugar, 4 fresh eggs, the grated zest of one lemon, rum essence, 300 grams of flour, and 1 packet of baking powder. Additionally, to create the color contrast, you will use 4 tablespoons of cocoa.

In a large bowl, begin by creaming the margarine with the sugar. Use a mixer or a spatula, making sure to achieve a creamy and fluffy mixture. This step is essential to incorporate the necessary air and obtain a light cake. Once you have a smooth texture, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before moving on to the next.

Once the eggs are integrated, add the grated lemon zest and rum essence, which will add extra flavor to your cake. Mix well, then gradually start adding the flour and baking powder. It is important to do this in stages to avoid lumps. In the end, you will have a thicker but still soft and easy-to-shape dough.

Divide the dough into two equal parts. In one of them, add the 4 tablespoons of cocoa and mix well until the cocoa is fully incorporated, thus obtaining a dark-colored mixture.

Now, it's time to create the visual effect of a chessboard. Prepare a tray lined with baking paper and, using a spoon, take a small amount from each mixture. Place the first dollop of black dough on the tray, followed by a dollop of white dough, alternating colors. Continue placing the dollops until the tray is full, ensuring to maintain the alternation.

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the tray in to bake. The cake will be ready in about 30-40 minutes, but it is important to check with a toothpick if it is baked inside. Once it is ready, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly.

For a sweet finish, you can dust it with powdered sugar or, if you like, you can add a generous layer of whipped cream on top. This cake not only looks spectacular, but it is also delicious, making it perfect for any occasion or simply to sweeten an ordinary day. Enjoy every slice!