Cake

Cocoa cake with sugar glaze - a recipe that combines the intense flavor of chocolate with a moist texture and a delicious finish, perfect for any occasion. Whether you want a quick dessert for a family meal or want to impress guests, this cake will help you achieve remarkable results without much effort. Let's discover together how to prepare this delight!

Preparation time:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 30-35 minutes
- Total time: 55-60 minutes
- Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups (approximately 250 g each) of flour
- 3 cups (approximately 600 g) of sugar
- 1 cup (approximately 240 ml) of water
- 7 tablespoons of oil (or 1 tablespoon of margarine + 6 tablespoons of oil)
- 3 tablespoons of cocoa
- A pinch of salt
- 1 packet (approximately 10 g) of baking powder

Necessary utensils:
- A pot for boiling
- A large mixing bowl
- A mixer or whisk
- A baking tray (approximately 30x20 cm)
- Baking paper (optional)

Brief history
This cocoa cake recipe has deep roots in baking traditions, being a popular choice in many households. Cocoa, the main ingredient, has been used for centuries to add flavor and sweetness to desserts. The combination of sugar, cocoa, and oil brings a rich taste and a soft texture that will surely delight any meal.

Step by step for a perfect result

1. Boiling the base ingredients: In a large pot, combine the 3 cups of sugar, 1 cup of water, 3 tablespoons of cocoa, a pinch of salt, and the 7 tablespoons of oil (or margarine). Put the mixture over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil. This will create a rich and aromatic syrup.

2. Separating the mixture: After the mixture has reached boiling point, turn off the heat and take a cup of the mixture (approximately 240 ml) and set it aside. This will be used for the glaze on top of the cake.

3. Cooling the mixture: Let the remaining mixture cool down. It is essential that it is at room temperature before adding the egg yolks, so you do not cook them.

4. Incorporating the eggs and flour: While the mixture cools, prepare the 4 egg yolks and add them to the cooled mixture. Mix well until homogeneous. Then add the 2 cups of flour and the baking powder, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

5. Beating the egg whites: In a separate bowl, beat the 4 egg whites until foamy. This step will give the cake a fluffy and airy texture. Once the egg whites are well beaten, gently fold them into the cocoa mixture using a spatula, through folding motions. This will help keep the air in the egg whites.

6. Preparing the tray: Grease the baking tray with a little oil and sprinkle a bit of flour to prevent the cake from sticking. Alternatively, you can use baking paper for an even easier result.

7. Baking the cake: Pour the mixture into the prepared tray and place it in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Be careful not to leave it too long, so it doesn't dry out.

8. Finishing: After the cake is baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool in the tray. Once it has completely cooled, pour the cup of mixture that you reserved earlier on top to add a layer of moisture and sweetness. If desired, you can sprinkle coconut on top for added texture and flavor.

Useful tips
- Vegan version: You can replace the eggs with a combination of 1/4 cup of applesauce or banana to make a vegan cake.
- Flavor additions: You can add a splash of vanilla extract or rum flavor to the base mixture to enhance the flavor.
- Serving and pairing: This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for a decadent treat.
- Storage: Keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.

Nutritional benefits
This cake, rich in sugars and carbohydrates, provides an energy boost, but it is best consumed in moderation. Cocoa contains antioxidants and can have beneficial effects on mood. Additionally, by adding coconut, you can obtain a healthy intake of fiber and good fats.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of oil? Yes, you can use coconut oil or any other type of vegetable oil, but the taste will vary.
2. How can I make the cake less sweet? You can reduce the amount of sugar, but be careful as sugar plays an important role in the texture of the cake.
3. Is it possible to add fruits? Yes, you can add pieces of bananas or cherries for added flavor.

Therefore, this cocoa cake recipe is not only simple but also full of possibilities. It will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones and turn any gathering into a special moment. Enjoy!