Andutu Cake

Andutu Cake: A Shirt-Shaped Delight

On a special day, when Andutu turned one, I decided to prepare something truly memorable: a shirt-shaped cake, a culinary masterpiece that would showcase his playful and vibrant personality. This recipe combines fluffy sponge with delicious chocolate and lemon cream, all decorated with a touch of creativity and love. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:
- 6 fresh eggs
- 1 cup (about 250 g) of sugar
- 1 cup (about 125 g) of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- Vanilla essence (to taste)
- 1 packet of lemon Olle cream
- 1 packet of chocolate Olle cream
- Milk (for soaking)
- Whipped cream (for decoration)
- Raspberries (for decoration)
- Blue coconut flakes (for decoration)

Preparation:
1. Preparing the sponges: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential that the egg whites are at room temperature to achieve a light and fluffy meringue. Beat the egg whites with a mixer until they form peaks. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until the mixture thickens and doubles in volume. This is the perfect base for a fluffy sponge!

2. Adding the yolks: Gently incorporate the yolks one at a time, folding them in with a spatula to avoid losing air. This step is crucial for ensuring an airy texture in the cake.

3. Incorporating dry ingredients: Sift the flour and baking powder over the egg mixture and gently fold until combined. Add the vanilla essence for extra flavor.

4. Baking the sponges: Pour the mixture into a rectangular baking dish lined with flour, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 30 minutes. Check for doneness using the Toothpick Test: insert a toothpick in the center of the sponge, and if it comes out clean, the cake is ready!

5. Cooling and cutting: Once baked, let the sponge cool completely in the pan, then cut it into a shirt shape. Use a sharp knife and be creative! Don’t worry if the shape isn’t perfect; every cake has its charm!

6. Preparing the creams: Follow the instructions on the package to prepare the lemon and chocolate Olle creams. Make sure they are well chilled before use for a firmer texture.

7. Assembling the cake: Soak the first sponge with milk to keep it moist and delicious. Spread a generous layer of chocolate cream, then place the second sponge on top and cover it with lemon cream. Sprinkle blue coconut flakes on top for a playful look.

8. Decorating the cake: Use whipped cream to form the pocket and collar of the shirt, and the raspberries can be used as buttons. This detail will add a touch of freshness and a color contrast.

9. Serving: Cut the cake into slices and serve with a smile! You can accompany this dessert with a cup of green tea or fresh lemonade for a delicious contrast.

Useful tips:
- You can add chopped nuts or almonds to the cake batter for a crunchy texture.
- Instead of blue coconut flakes, you can use grated chocolate or dried fruits for a different look.
- If you want to reduce sugar, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake provides a mix of protein from eggs, carbohydrates from flour and sugar, as well as antioxidants from raspberries. Although it is a dessert, consumed in moderation, it can be a pleasant part of a balanced diet.

Quick version: If you're in a hurry, you can use store-bought cake layers, saving time. All you need to do is focus on preparing the creams and decorating the cake.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of creams?
Of course! You can experiment with strawberry, vanilla, or white chocolate creams, depending on your preferences.
- How can I store the cake?
The cake keeps well in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap, to maintain moisture.

In conclusion, the Andutu Cake is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience and a way to celebrate important moments in life. Whether it's a birthday or a gathering with loved ones, this cake will bring a touch of joy and creativity to your table. So, I wish you happy cooking and many smiles around your cake!