Black coffee cake

Captivating Black Coffee Cake Recipe: A Delight for Coffee Lovers

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Introduction

The black coffee cake is a perfect choice for coffee lovers who want to add a refined and decadent touch to their dessert. This recipe combines the fluffy texture of the cake with an intense coffee flavor, providing an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether it's for a celebration, a gathering with friends, or simply a personal treat, this cake is sure to impress. Let's discover together how we can create this delight!

Ingredients needed

For the cake:
- 2 large eggs + 2 egg whites
- 250 ml milk
- 250 g sugar (about 8 tablespoons)
- 200 g flour (about 10 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 tablespoons cocoa
- A pinch of salt

For the cream:
- 2 egg yolks
- 250 ml milk
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 120 g sugar (about 4 tablespoons)
- 2 teaspoons instant coffee
- 200 ml liquid cream

Step by Step - Preparing the Black Coffee Cake

1. Preparing the cake

Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand to make your work easier.

In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with a pinch of salt. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until you obtain a creamy mixture with a deep yellow color. This step is essential for incorporating the air needed for a fluffy cake.

In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa, and baking powder. Once you have a homogeneous mixture, gradually add it over the egg mixture, alternating with the milk. Add the milk in a thin stream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Your batter should have a fluid consistency, but not too runny.

Line a 20 cm round cake pan with flour or parchment paper to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture into the pan and bake for about 45 minutes. A basic rule is not to open the oven door during baking to avoid letting steam escape and compromising the fluffy texture of the cake.

To check if the cake is done, you can use the toothpick method: poke the cake in the middle, and if the toothpick comes out clean, the cake is ready!

2. Preparing the cream

While the cake is baking, you can prepare the cream. In a saucepan, add the egg yolks, sugar, and flour. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture, then add the milk. Mix again to prevent lumps from forming.

Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly. It is important not to let the cream boil too hard, as it may stick to the bottom of the pan. When the cream starts to thicken, add the instant coffee and mix well. Let the cream cool completely. A useful trick is to place the saucepan in a bowl of cold water to speed up the cooling process.

Once the cream has cooled, whip the liquid cream until it reaches a firm consistency. Gently fold the whipped cream into the coffee cream, stirring lightly to avoid losing the air from the cream.

3. Assembling the cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, cut it in half with a sharp knife. Place the first half on a plate and generously spread 3/4 of the coffee cream on it. Place the second half of the cake on top and decorate with the remaining cream. Take your time to create an elaborate look, perhaps using a piping bag to add an elegant detail.

Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving. This cooling time will allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

Serving suggestions

For a truly special experience, you can serve the black coffee cake alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee, preferably an espresso or cappuccino, to complement the flavors. You can also add some chocolate-covered coffee beans or chocolate flakes on top for an extra touch of decoration and flavor.

Nutritional information

Each serving of black coffee cake contains approximately 350 calories, making it an indulgent choice that also brings benefits. Coffee, besides providing a delicious taste, contains antioxidants and can improve mood. Using natural cream adds a source of healthy fats, while cocoa is rich in antioxidants.

Recipe variations

If you want to personalize this recipe, you can experiment with different flavors. For example, you can add a splash of vanilla or rum extract to the coffee cream for a subtle flavor note. You can also replace the instant coffee with concentrated espresso for a more intense taste.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use another type of sugar? Yes, you can replace white sugar with brown sugar for a more caramelized taste.
- What if I don't have liquid cream? You can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese, adjusting the amount of sugar according to your desired sweetness.
- How can I store the cake? The cake keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it is recommended to cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.

Now you are ready to impress your friends and family with this black coffee cake! Experiment with flavors and don't forget to enjoy every delicious bite. Bon appétit!