2 in 1 cake

The 2-in-1 cake is a delicious dessert, perfect for satisfying the sweet cravings of the whole family. This ingenious recipe combines two moist layers, one plain and one cocoa, creating an irresistible contrast of textures and flavors. It is a quick dessert, ideal for moments when you want to impress without spending too much time in the kitchen. Let's explore each step of this recipe together, discussing ingredients, preparation techniques, and some useful tips to help you achieve a perfect result.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For Layer 1:
- 300 grams of flour
- 250 grams of sugar
- 100 ml of milk
- ½ teaspoon of rum essence
- 150 grams of melted butter
- ½ fresh yeast or 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1 egg

For Layer 2:
- 300 grams of flour
- 200 grams of sugar
- 100 ml of milk
- ½ teaspoon of rum essence
- 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa
- 150 grams of melted butter
- ½ fresh yeast or 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1 egg

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help with better homogenization of the mixture. It is also recommended to prepare all ingredients before starting, so you can work efficiently.

2. Preparing Layer 1:
- In a large bowl, add the flour and melted butter. Mix gently until the mixture becomes homogeneous.
- Add the milk and sugar, stirring continuously until the sugar completely dissolves. This step is essential, as undissolved sugar will lead to an unpleasant texture.
- Incorporate the egg and rum essence, mixing until well combined.
- If using fresh yeast, add it now. If you prefer baking powder, you can add the 2 teaspoons now. Mix well.

3. Preparing Layer 2:
- In a separate bowl, repeat the above steps, adding flour and melted butter, then milk and sugar.
- Add the cocoa, egg, and rum essence, mixing well. Finally, add the yeast or baking powder, depending on your preference.

4. Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Pour the mixture for Layer 1 into a baking pan lined with parchment paper or greased with butter. Start by baking this layer for about 5 minutes.
- After 5 minutes, remove the pan from the oven and carefully pour the mixture for Layer 2 over Layer 1. Continue baking for another 25-30 minutes or until a tester inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean.

5. Finishing:
- Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- You can sprinkle grated coconut or powdered sugar on top for an attractive appearance and an extra touch of flavor.

Serving Suggestions
This 2-in-1 cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce. You can also serve it alongside a cup of coffee or aromatic tea, making each dish a true celebration of flavors.

Tips and Useful Advice
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of vanilla extract to the mixture of each layer.
- For a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar by up to 50 grams.
- If you can't find cocoa, you can use carob or even carob powder for a different and slightly healthier flavor.
- This cake can be stored well in the fridge for 3-4 days, and the taste improves with each passing day.

Nutritional Benefits
This cake offers a mix of carbohydrates from flour and sugar, as well as healthy fats from butter. Depending on the ingredients used, it can be a quick source of energy, perfect for moments when you need a boost. Additionally, cocoa adds important antioxidants to the diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it will change the texture and moisture of the cake. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid.

- Can the cake be frozen?
Yes, this cake can be frozen. Make sure it is well wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

- Can I add nuts or dried fruits?
Absolutely! Nuts or dried fruits can add a crunchy texture and extra flavor.

The 2-in-1 cake is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings people together and creates memories. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply as a treat at the end of the day, each slice will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Don't hesitate to put your personal touch and experiment with ingredients and flavors to make this cake a family recipe! Enjoy!