Almond sponge cake with chantilly

Almond Sponge Cake with Chantilly

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 12

The dessert we propose today is a delicious sponge cake, with a fluffy texture and almond flavor, accompanied by a fine chantilly cream. This recipe is perfect for any special occasion, whether it’s an anniversary, a celebration, or simply to indulge your family.

The history of this dessert takes us back to culinary traditions that blend simple ingredients with sophisticated ones, and today, I will show you how to create a sponge cake that will surely impress everyone.

Ingredients:

For the sponge cake:
- 3 eggs
- 125 g sugar
- 125 g unsalted butter (preferably at room temperature)
- 150 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
- 60 g milk
- 1 teaspoon liquid coffee (espresso is ideal)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 125 g flour
- 150 g roasted almonds (sliced)

For the chantilly cream:
- 3 egg yolks
- 30 g flour
- 50 g fine sugar
- 250 ml milk
- 250 ml whipped cream (beaten)

Step by step for a perfect sponge cake

1. Preparing the oven and the pan
Start by preheating the oven to 175-180 °C. Prepare a baking pan by greasing it with butter and dusting it with flour to prevent the sponge cake from sticking.

2. Separating the eggs
Carefully separate the egg whites from the yolks, ensuring that no yolk gets into the whites, as this can prevent achieving a firm foam.

3. Preparing the yolk mixture
In a bowl, mix the yolks with the sugar using a mixer until you obtain a light-colored, fluffy foam. If necessary, add a tablespoon or two of water to help with emulsification.

4. Beating the egg whites
In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they form a stiff, shiny foam. This step is essential to give the sponge cake an airy texture.

5. Melting the chocolate
In a heat-resistant bowl, melt the dark chocolate in the microwave, being careful to stir it every 30 seconds to prevent burning. Once melted, add the warm milk and melted butter (but not hot). Mix well until smooth, then add the coffee.

6. Combining the ingredients
Incorporate the yolk mixture into the chocolate mixture, mixing well. Then, gently fold in the beaten egg whites using a spatula to avoid losing air. Sift the flour together with the baking powder and gradually add it, mixing gently to achieve a homogeneous mixture.

7. Baking
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and level the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the sponge cake to cool completely in the pan.

8. Preparing the chantilly cream
Meanwhile, prepare the chantilly cream. Mix the yolks with the sugar and flour until you obtain a homogeneous paste. In a saucepan, bring the milk to a boil. When it starts boiling, gradually pour it over the egg mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Return the mixture to low heat and stir constantly until it thickens. Once the cream has thickened, transfer it to a bowl with cold water to cool quickly, stirring occasionally.

9. Finishing the cream
Once the cream has completely cooled, gently fold in the whipped cream using a spatula. This cream will add a touch of finesse and a delicious creamy texture to your dessert.

10. Assembling the dessert
When the sponge cake is completely cooled, cut it in half horizontally. Fill one half with the chantilly cream, then place the other half on top. Meanwhile, melt the white chocolate in the microwave and pour it evenly over the sponge cake. Decorate with sliced and toasted almonds for a crunchy and appealing look.

11. Serving
Cut the dessert into cubes and serve it with a smile. It is delicious on its own or alongside a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea.

Useful tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
- You can add additional flavors such as vanilla or almond extract for an even more intense taste.
- If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can adjust the amount of sugar in the chantilly cream.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe contains ingredients rich in antioxidants, such as dark chocolate and almonds, which provide not only a delicious taste but also a source of valuable nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Answer: Yes, but expect a sweeter and less intense taste.

2. Can I prepare this dessert a day in advance?
Answer: Absolutely! The sponge cake keeps well in the refrigerator, and the flavors improve as it sits.

3. How can I store the sponge cake for longer?
Answer: It is recommended to keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent drying out.

This almond sponge cake with chantilly is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that you will love every time you make it. Whether you want to impress your guests or indulge your family, this sponge cake is the perfect choice! Enjoy!