Birthday cake

Chocolate and Nutella Birthday Cake: A Delicious Surprise

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 70 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Here’s a birthday cake recipe that will not only bring a smile to the celebrant's face but will also become an unforgettable memory. This chocolate and Nutella cake is perfect for celebrating a dear friend's 18th birthday, and the decoration with edible photo prints will add a personalized and special touch. Let's get started!

Ingredients:

For the sponge:
- 150 g flour
- 150 g sugar
- 1 baking powder
- 4 eggs
- 1 vanilla essence

For the filling:
- 200 ml whipped cream
- 100 g Nutella duo/Finetti

For the glaze:
- 200 g white chocolate
- 50 g butter
- 25 ml liquid cream

Preparing the sponge:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature, as this will help achieve a lighter texture. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.

2. Beating the egg whites: In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with the sugar using an electric mixer. Continue beating until you achieve a firm, glossy foam that forms peaks when you lift the mixer’s beaters. This is the secret to a fluffy sponge!

3. Adding the yolks: Add the yolks one at a time, gently mixing with a wooden spoon. It’s important to fold gently to avoid losing the air incorporated into the egg whites.

4. Incorporating dry ingredients: Sift the flour and baking powder over the egg mixture and gently mix. Add the vanilla essence and continue mixing until the ingredients are perfectly combined.

5. Baking the sponge: Pour the mixture into a cake pan lined with baking paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the sponge is firm to the touch and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. When ready, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Preparing the filling:

6. Nutella cream: In a separate bowl, mix the whipped cream with Nutella. Use a spatula to incorporate the two ingredients, being careful not to lose volume. This combination will add a delicious layer of chocolate and creaminess.

7. Assembling the cake: Once the sponge has completely cooled, cut it horizontally in half. Place the first half of the sponge on a serving plate, add the Nutella cream, and then cover with the other half of the sponge. Place the cake in the refrigerator for an hour to allow the cream to set slightly.

Preparing the glaze:

8. Melting the chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, place the white chocolate and butter. Set the bowl over a pot of gently boiling water (double boiler) and stir constantly until the chocolate and butter are perfectly melted. Add the liquid cream and mix vigorously until you achieve a smooth glaze.

9. Glazing the cake: Once the glaze mixture is ready, take the cake out of the refrigerator. Pour the chocolate glaze over the cake, ensuring it spreads evenly over the top and sides. You can gently rotate the cake to ensure the glaze covers all parts.

10. Cooling the glaze: Place the cake back in the refrigerator to allow the glaze to set. You can leave it there for 30 minutes.

Decorating the cake:

11. Decoration options: After the glaze has set, it’s time to get creative! Use the edible photo prints to decorate the cake. You can also add other elements such as colorful candies, edible flowers, or sugar paste figurines. Feel free to play with colors and shapes.

Serving suggestions:

Serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fresh fruit sauce for a delicious contrast. A refreshing drink, such as fruit tea or a non-alcoholic cocktail, pairs perfectly with this treat.

Nutritional benefits:

This cake offers a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, making it an excellent choice for a special occasion. The flour and eggs provide a good source of energy, while the chocolate and Nutella add antioxidants. However, it’s important to consume it in moderation due to the sugar and fat content.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use dark chocolate for the glaze?
Yes, you can use dark chocolate, but you will need to add more liquid cream to achieve the desired consistency.

2. How can I make the cake healthier?
Replace sugar with a natural sweetener and use whole wheat flour. These changes will provide better nutritional value.

3. Can I prepare the cake a day in advance?
Absolutely! The cake keeps very well in the refrigerator and will taste even better the next day when the flavors have melded.

4. What other flavors can I use?
You can experiment with almond or orange essences instead of vanilla for a different taste.

This chocolate and Nutella birthday cake will surely be a hit at any party, bringing joy and sweetness to the hearts of loved ones. So, I wish you success in making it, and don’t forget to enjoy every moment of the process!