Black Cake

Noir Cake: A Chocolate Delight with Cookies and Citrus Flavor

Total preparation time: 24 hours (including cooling time)
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 0 minutes (no baking required)
Number of servings: 12

If you are looking for a dessert that truly impresses, the Noir Cake is the perfect choice. This decadent cake, with a base of crunchy cookies and a fine chocolate cream, is enriched with citrus flavors that give it a special touch. It is a simple recipe but with a remarkable visual and taste impact.

A brief history of the Noir cake
The origins of the Noir cake are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed that recipes of this type were created to celebrate special moments. It is a dessert that combines simple elements, such as cookies and chocolate, and transforms them into something truly special. This recipe requires no baking, making it ideal for those who want to impress their guests without spending hours in front of the oven.

Main ingredients
- 200 g butter
- 200 g cocoa cookies
- 200 g milk chocolate
- 250 ml liquid cream
- 2 packets of gelatin
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest liqueur
- 2 tablespoons orange zest liqueur
- For the glaze:
- 75 g dark chocolate
- 50 ml milk
- 25 g chocolate flakes
- Chocolate balls and sticks for decoration

Ingredient details
- Cocoa cookies: Choose quality cookies, as they will influence the final taste of the cake. Cocoa cookies add an intense chocolate note.
- Milk chocolate: Make sure to use chocolate with a good cocoa content to achieve a smooth and delicious cream.
- Gelatin: It is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Make sure to prepare it according to the instructions on the package for optimal results.
- Citrus zest liqueur: If you don't have flavored liqueur, you can make it at home. Add grated lemon or orange zest to the liqueur and let it sit in an airtight container for at least two weeks.

Preparing the Noir cake

Step 1: Preparing the cookie base
1. Start by melting 100 g of butter in the microwave. Make sure not to boil it, just let it melt completely.
2. Use a food processor to crush the cocoa cookies until they become a fine powder.
3. Mix the crushed cookies with the melted butter and the 2 tablespoons of lemon zest liqueur.
4. Line a round baking dish with cling film to make it easier to remove the cake. Sprinkle the cookie mixture into the dish and press it evenly with a spoon, ensuring it is compact.
5. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill well, about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preparing the chocolate cream
1. In a bowl, melt 200 g of milk chocolate in the microwave. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Once the chocolate is melted, let it cool slightly, then add the 2 tablespoons of orange zest liqueur, the liquid cream, and mix well.
3. Prepare the gelatin according to the package instructions and add it to the chocolate mixture. Mix everything until smooth.

Step 3: Assembling the cake
1. Pour the chocolate mixture over the chilled cookie base.
2. Place the cake back in the refrigerator to set, preferably overnight.

Step 4: Preparing the glaze
1. The next day, prepare the glaze by melting 75 g of dark chocolate with 50 ml of milk in the microwave. Stir until you achieve a smooth and glossy mixture.
2. Pour the glaze over the chilled cake, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
3. Decorate with chocolate flakes, balls, and sticks for a festive look.

Serving and suggestions
When serving the Noir cake, you can accompany it with a scoop of freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a contrast of textures. You can also add a few slices of orange or lemon for an extra touch of freshness. It is a perfect dessert for special occasions, parties, or simply to indulge yourself.

Nutritional benefits
This cake is a rich source of antioxidants due to the chocolate and provides a moderate dose of healthy fats from butter and cream. Consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate will add a more intense flavor and a higher cocoa content.

2. Is it possible to make the cake without alcohol?
Of course! You can omit the alcohol or replace it with lemon or orange extracts.

3. What should I do if the cake doesn't set well?
Make sure the gelatin is well prepared and used in the recommended amount. If the cake is too soft, you can add an extra packet of gelatin.

4. How can I customize the recipe?
You can experiment with different types of cookies or chocolate, adding ingredients like chopped nuts or dried fruits for varied texture and flavor.

The Noir Cake is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that will delight your senses. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, it is sure to bring smiles and joy to those who savor it. Enjoy!