CADET Cake

Cake "Cadet" - A Chocolate and Meringue Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

I propose a cake recipe that perfectly combines decadent chocolate with fluffy meringue: Cake "Cadet". This delicacy is not just a simple dessert, but a true explosion of flavors that will delight all your senses. Whether you are preparing for a special event or simply want to indulge yourself, this cake is the ideal choice!

A brief history of the recipe
Chocolate cakes have a long history, being cherished for centuries. Their origins are lost in the mists of time, but they were certainly created to bring joy and satisfaction. The combination of chocolate and meringue has become a tradition, and the "Cadet" cake is a perfect example of the fusion of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

For the base:
- 4 large eggs (about 240 g)
- 200 g sugar
- 300 g milk chocolate (opt for high-quality chocolate for an intense taste)
- 100 g butter (make sure it is at room temperature for easier mixing)
- 120 g flour (preferably type 000)
- 90-100 g apricot jam (the jam adds a note of freshness, but you can experiment with peach or plum jam)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (for a flavorful taste)

For the meringue:
- 2 egg whites (about 60 g)
- 80 g sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 50 g ground nuts (you can replace with almonds or hazelnuts for a varied flavor)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the base:
Start by separating the egg yolks from the whites. In a large bowl, beat the yolks with the sugar using a mixer until the mixture doubles in volume and becomes creamy. It is important to use a clean and dry bowl to achieve a perfect texture.

2. Adding the chocolate and butter:
Melt the milk chocolate together with the butter in a bowl over a water bath or in the microwave. Make sure the mixture is homogeneous, then let it cool slightly. Incorporate this mixture into the yolk and sugar mixture, gently mixing to avoid losing air.

3. Incorporating the flour:
Sift the flour over the chocolate mixture and gently combine. It is important not to overmix to keep the base fluffy.

4. Beating the egg whites:
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla sugar, continuing to mix until it becomes glossy. This step is essential for achieving perfect meringue.

5. Combining:
Add the beaten egg whites to the base mixture, gently folding them in. This step will ensure an airy texture for the cake.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and pour in the base mixture. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the tray.

7. Preparing the jam:
Once the base has completely cooled, spread it with the apricot jam, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

8. Preparing the meringue:
In another bowl, beat the egg whites for the meringue until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until it becomes glossy. Add the ground nuts and gently mix.

9. Finalizing the cake:
Spread the meringue evenly over the jam-covered base. Place the tray in the preheated oven at 150 degrees Celsius for another 15 minutes, until the meringue turns slightly golden.

10. Cooling and serving:
Let the cake cool completely in the tray before cutting it into servings. It is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it with a scoop of ice cream or a fragrant coffee for an unforgettable moment.

Practical Tips
- Choose quality ingredients: Good chocolate and quality apricot jam will make a difference in the final taste of the cake.
- Ingredient temperature: Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature before using them. This helps in the even mixing of ingredients.
- Experimentation: You can replace the apricot jam with other jam flavors according to your preferences. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a more complex taste.

Nutritional Benefits
The "Cadet" cake is a source of carbohydrates from sugar and flour, as well as antioxidants from chocolate. The butter adds healthy fats, and the nuts contribute protein and fiber. Moderation in consuming this dessert can offer a delightful taste experience, but be cautious with serving sizes!

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
Yes, dark chocolate will provide a more intense cocoa flavor, but you may need to adjust the sugar amount.

2. How can I store the cake?
Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for a week.

3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen. Make sure it is well covered to prevent freezer burn.

Serving Suggestions
For an elegant presentation, you can sprinkle a little cocoa or powdered sugar on top of the cake before serving. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside will turn the dessert into a masterpiece!

The "Cadet" cake is not just a simple dessert, but a culinary experience that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Whether you enjoy it with family or serve it at a party, it is guaranteed to be appreciated by all! Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!