Bitter cake

Bitter Cake - A Delicacy with a Story

Who doesn’t love a cake that combines sweetness with a slightly bitter note, bringing a perfect balance of flavors? The Bitter Cake is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that will surely impress anyone who sits at your table. Perfect for special occasions or simply to indulge your taste buds, this recipe will guide you step by step to achieve a delicious result.

Preparation Time: 60 minutes
Baking Time: 15-30 minutes (depending on the number of layers)
Total Time: 90 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Necessary Ingredients:

*For the sponge:*
- 9 eggs
- 9 tablespoons of sugar
- 9 tablespoons of flour
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt

*For the cream:*
- 700 ml of sour cherry syrup (we recommend using a homemade cherry syrup recipe)
- 2 vanilla puddings

*For decoration:*
- Grated coconut
- White chocolate (cut into small pieces)
- Sugus candy roses
- Edible decorative pearls

A little story about the bitter cake:
The Bitter Cake has its roots in traditions that blend sweetness with a hint of bitterness, symbolizing the complexity of life. It is often used for celebrations, but also as an everyday dessert. In the past, flavors were created from ingredients available in nature, and the combination of sour cherries and vanilla became a favorite among many families.

Preparing the cake:

1. Preparing the sponges:
Start by preparing the sponges. We recommend making 3 layers to achieve a tall and impressive cake, but you can also opt for a single layer that you cut into three. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they become frothy. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a firm meringue.

2. Incorporate the yolks and flour:
Add the yolks, gently folding in with a spatula to avoid losing air in the mixture. Then, sift the flour over the mixture and gently fold it in using up-and-down motions.

3. Bake the sponges:
Line a 20 cm (or slightly larger) round cake pan with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan and bake the sponge in a preheated oven at 170°C for 15-30 minutes, depending on the number of layers. Check with a toothpick - if it comes out clean, the sponge is ready.

4. Preparing the cream:
While the sponges are baking, you can prepare the cream. Bring the sour cherry syrup to a boil in a saucepan. In a separate bowl, dissolve the vanilla puddings in a few tablespoons of cold syrup, mixing well. When the syrup starts to boil, add the pudding mixture and continue to stir over low heat until the cream thickens. Once you have achieved a glossy consistency, let the cream cool.

5. Assemble the cake:
Once the sponges have cooled, you can start assembling. Cut each sponge in half (if you chose to make thicker layers) and soak each layer with the cherry syrup. Spread a layer of cream between each sponge layer, and on top of the cake, cover it evenly with the remaining cream.

6. Decorate the cake:
To give it a festive appearance, sprinkle grated coconut around the edge of the cake. Decorate with pieces of white chocolate, Sugus candy roses, and decorative pearls. This detail will not only enhance the appearance of the cake but also add a touch of originality.

Useful tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
- You can replace the sour cherry syrup with another fruit syrup, such as raspberry syrup, to give the cake a different note.
- If you want a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of sugar and use natural sweeteners to make the cake more diet-friendly.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I make the cake in advance?
Yes, the cake keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavors become even more intense over time.

- How can I keep the cake fresh?
You can cover it with plastic wrap or a lid, ensuring it won’t dry out.

- What can I serve with the cake?
The Bitter Cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light warm chocolate sauce. Additionally, a fruit tea or a sweet wine would perfectly complement the serving.

Nutritional benefits:
Although it is a dessert, the Bitter Cake has some benefits. Eggs are a good source of protein, and sour cherries are rich in antioxidants, helping to maintain health. However, it is important to consume it in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you are ready to create a cake that will surely become a favorite in your home! Whether you choose to make it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, the Bitter Cake will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!