Bee Cake (Sweetheart)

Albinuța Cake - The Sweet Delight from Childhood

It's time to share a recipe that is very dear to me. Albinuța Cake, a light and delicious dessert, is a perfect choice to bring a touch of nostalgia and joy to every meal. This recipe has accompanied me since childhood, and its inviting aromas make me feel at home, no matter where I am. Get ready to explore the necessary steps to create this wonder, which will not only delight your taste buds but also bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12-15

Necessary ingredients:

For the layers:
- 600g of flour
- 1 egg
- 4 tablespoons of honey
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 80g of margarine
- 180g of sugar
- A few tablespoons of milk

For the cream:
- 1 cup (approximately 250ml) of milk
- 180g of sugar
- 80g of semolina
- 200g of butter (at room temperature)
- Vanilla sugar or vanilla essence
- Jam (preferably sour, like rosehip or apricot)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the layers:
In a small pot, add honey, sugar, and margarine. Heat on low and stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture becomes homogeneous. It is important not to let the mixture boil too hard, just melt the ingredients. Once you have a uniform consistency, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

2. Adding dry ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix flour with baking soda. Gradually add the honey and margarine mixture, the egg, and a few tablespoons of milk. Knead until you get an elastic dough, but not too soft. Divide the dough into four equal pieces, which you will roll out later.

3. Baking the layers:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper or greased with oil and sprinkle with flour. Roll out each piece of dough into a thin layer, then place it in the tray. Use a fork to prick the layers in several places to avoid air bubbles. Bake each layer for about 5-7 minutes or until golden. Check constantly, as baking time may vary depending on the oven.

4. Preparing the cream:
In a pot, add milk, honey, and sugar. Heat on low and stir until the sugar dissolves. Once the mixture starts to boil, add the semolina in a rain, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Let it boil for a few minutes until the cream thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature. When cool, add the butter and vanilla essence, mixing well until you have a fluffy cream.

5. Assembling the cake:
On a platter, place the first layer. Lightly moisten the layer with water mixed with a little sugar and vanilla essence. Add half of the prepared cream, then cover with another layer. Spread a layer of jam (preferably sour jam). Repeat the procedure with another layer, followed by cream, and finish with the last layer. Dust with powdered sugar on top for an attractive appearance.

6. Cooling and serving:
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

Useful tips:
- Use quality butter to achieve a creamy and flavorful cream.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar in the cream and add more jam.
- Albinuța Cake is extremely versatile; you can vary the jam used according to your personal preferences.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake has a balanced content of carbohydrates and fats, making it a good choice to satisfy your sweet cravings without being too heavy. Honey and butter provide a creamy texture, while semolina offers a healthy dose of fiber.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace margarine with butter?
Yes, for a better taste and texture, you can use butter instead of margarine.

2. What other fillings can I use?
You can use berry jams, chocolate, or even cream cheese for a more decadent version.

3. How can I store the cake?
Albinuța Cake keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days, covered with plastic wrap.

Combined recipe:
This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of fruit tea or aromatic coffee, enhancing its sweetness and delicate texture.

Don't forget to share this recipe with your loved ones, invite them to the table, and enjoy every bite of this delicious cake together! Creating this cake is not just a culinary process; it's an opportunity to create unforgettable memories. Enjoy!