Cake base - basic recipe

Cake Base - Perfect Basic Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Who doesn’t love a delicious cake with a soft and fluffy base? The cake base is the perfect foundation for any dessert, and today’s recipe is simple, quick, and easy to make, even for those who consider themselves beginners in the kitchen. This basic recipe can be adapted and enhanced with various flavors and fillings, but first, let’s focus on the perfect technique to achieve a dream cake base.

Necessary ingredients:

- 6 fresh eggs
- 8 tablespoons of sugar (preferably fine sugar)
- 8 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of oil (sunflower oil or light olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon of cold water
- 1 packet of baking powder (approx. 10g)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)

Helpful tip: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve an even and well-aerated base. Cold eggs can affect the final structure of the base.

Step by Step:

1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Use a clean bowl for the egg whites, as any trace of fat or yolk will prevent the whites from whipping properly.

2. Whipping the egg whites: Using a mixer, beat the egg whites until you achieve a stiff foam. One way to check if the egg whites are whipped correctly is to turn the bowl upside down; if they don’t move, you’re on the right track!

3. Preparing the yolks: In another bowl, mix the yolks with the sugar, vanilla sugar, oil, and water. Use the mixer on medium speed until the mixture doubles in volume and the sugar dissolves completely. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy base.

4. Adding the dry ingredients: Sift the flour together with the baking powder over the yolk mixture. Use the mixer to gently combine until everything is well incorporated. The flour will make the batter a bit denser, but don’t worry, the egg whites will add air and volume.

5. Incorporating the egg whites: Now comes the essential part! Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture. Mix carefully, using a folding motion from the bottom up, to preserve the air in the egg whites. This is the key to a light and fluffy base.

6. Preparing the pan: Line a cake pan with parchment paper or grease it with butter and sprinkle flour. This will prevent the base from sticking and make it easier to remove after baking.

7. Baking: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and level the surface. Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the pan in the oven. Bake the base for 30-35 minutes, or until it passes the toothpick test (when the toothpick comes out clean, the base is ready).

8. Cooling: Remove the base from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to avoid a soggy texture.

9. Cutting the base: Once the base is completely cooled, you can cut it into two or three layers, depending on your preferences. Use a knife or a piece of thread for even cutting.

Variations and serving suggestions:

This cake base is extremely versatile and can be used as a base for a variety of delicious cakes. Here are a few variations:

- Cocoa base: Add 3-4 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the flour mixture for a chocolate base.
- Flavored base: You can replace some of the water with citrus juice for a fresh taste, or add lemon or orange zest to enhance the flavors.
- Nut or almond base: Incorporate ground nuts or almonds into the base mixture for a crunchy texture.

Ideal combinations:

This base is perfect for pairing with:

- Chocolate or vanilla cream
- Fresh fruits (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- Whipped cream
- Fruit jams or caramel sauces

Frequently asked questions:

1. Why doesn’t my base turn out?
Make sure to strictly follow the recipe steps, especially when it comes to whipping the egg whites and mixing the ingredients. Use fresh ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature.

2. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the amount of liquids, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

3. How can I keep the base fresh?
Wrap the base in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and keep it at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. You can freeze the base to preserve it for a longer time.

Nutritional benefits:

This cake base, made from basic ingredients, provides a good source of carbohydrates, proteins (from the eggs), and healthy fats (from the oil). It can be included in your diet in moderation, especially when combined with fresh fruits or healthy creams.

Try this basic recipe and let your imagination soar! Create customized cakes that will impress family and friends. Remember, every cake has a story to tell, and you are the chef who brings it to life!