Alex Cake

Alex Cake: A Delicacy for Celebration

When it comes to celebrating a special day, nothing compares to a cake made with love and care, like the Alex Cake. This cake was created for my brother-in-law's birthday, who turned 22. It features a fluffy base, filled with two delicious creams, one vanilla and the other chocolate, and decorated with whipped cream. Get ready to learn how to make this quick and simple dessert that is sure to impress anyone who tastes it!

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Number of Servings: 10

Ingredients

For the Base:
- 4 eggs
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 tablespoons water
- A pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons cocoa
- 1 vanilla essence
- 5 tablespoons flour

For the Vanilla Cream:
- 350 ml milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- 1 tablespoon margarine
- 3 tablespoons starch

For the Chocolate Cream:
- 350 ml milk
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- 3 tablespoons flour

For Decoration:
- 200 ml whipped cream
- (optional) cocoa for decoration
- (optional) edible flowers

Preparing the Base

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a fluffy base.

2. Beating the Yolks: In a bowl, mix the yolks with the oil and a pinch of salt until they become a homogeneous and fluffy mixture.

3. Beating the Egg Whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites with the two tablespoons of water. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until you achieve a firm meringue. Check the consistency: the egg whites should hold well on the whisk.

4. Combining the Mixtures: Pour the egg white meringue over the yolk mixture and gently fold using a spatula to avoid losing air from the egg whites.

5. Adding the Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle the flour, cocoa, and vanilla essence gradually, mixing gently until well combined.

6. Baking: Pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until it passes the toothpick test. Let the base cool completely.

Preparing the Vanilla Cream

1. Melting the Margarine: In a saucepan, melt the tablespoon of margarine over low heat.

2. Adding the Milk: Add the milk mixed with sugar and vanilla sugar. When the mixture starts to boil, add the starch dissolved in a little milk.

3. Thickening the Cream: Stir continuously until the cream thickens. Remove from heat and let the cream cool.

Preparing the Chocolate Cream

1. Boiling the Milk: Bring the milk to a boil in a saucepan.

2. Mixing the Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the cocoa, sugar, and flour.

3. Adding the Mixture: When the milk starts to boil, add the cocoa mixture and stir well to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the cream thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Assembling the Cake

1. Cutting the Base: When the base is completely cooled, cut it into three thin slices.

2. Soaking the Base: Use a simple syrup (water with sugar) or fruit juice to soak each slice, making the cake more moist and flavorful.

3. Layering the Cream: Place the first slice of base on a serving platter. Spread the vanilla cream evenly, then place the second slice of base, soak it, and add the chocolate cream. Finally, place the last slice of base and soak it.

4. Decoration: Whip the cream and, if desired, add a tablespoon of cocoa for an attractive look. Spread the cream over the surface of the cake and decorate with edible flowers.

Serving and Recommendations

The Alex Cake is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to family gatherings. It can be served plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of aromatic coffee, which will highlight the richness of the creams.

Practical Tips

- For a Perfect Base: Make sure not to open the oven door during baking, as a sudden temperature change can cause the base to collapse.
- Vanilla Cream: If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a pinch of turmeric for a yellow hue and a health boost.
- Variations: You can add fresh fruits between the layers of cream for extra flavor and color.

Nutritional Information

This cake may contain approximately 300 calories per serving, depending on the portions served and the ingredients used. It is a good source of calcium and antioxidants due to the milk and chocolate.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of oil? Yes, you can use sunflower or canola oil.
2. Is this cake suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using chia eggs and plant-based margarine.
3. What kind of chocolate can I use for the chocolate cream? Use dark chocolate or milk chocolate, depending on your preferences.

In conclusion, the Alex Cake is a dessert that combines tradition with innovation, offering a perfect balance between sweet and flavorful. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge, each slice will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Cook with love and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!