Cake for friends

Diplomat Cake with Pineapple and Oranges

Welcome to the world of sweet delights! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a sophisticated cake, perfect for celebrating special moments with your loved ones. This diplomat cake is an excellent choice for anniversaries, parties, or simply to add a touch of happiness to your day. Each layer of soft sponge and delicious fruit cream will bring a smile to the faces of those who taste it. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 10-12

Ingredients

For the sponge:
- 6 eggs
- 6 tablespoons cold water
- 300 g sugar
- 260 g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar or vanilla essence
- 30 g cocoa

For the diplomat cream:
- 500 g whipping cream
- 150 g sugar
- 1 can of pineapple (about 400 g)
- 2 oranges
- 14 g gelatin

For decoration:
- 300 ml liquid cream
- 100 g sugar
- Zest of one orange

Necessary utensils
- Mixer
- Mixing bowl
- Cake pan (preferably with a removable bottom)
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
- Small pot for melting gelatin
- Grater for orange zest

Step by Step

1. Preparing the sponge
Start by preheating the oven to 175-180 degrees Celsius. This will ensure an even baking of your sponge. Prepare the cake pan by lining it with parchment paper; this will prevent the sponge from sticking.

2. Beating the eggs
In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with 300 g sugar and vanilla sugar. Use a mixer on high speed until you achieve a firm, glossy foam, which will create an airy texture for the cake. Add the 6 tablespoons of cold water and continue mixing. Then, incorporate the egg yolks, one at a time, gently folding with a spatula.

3. Incorporating the dry ingredients
In another bowl, mix the flour, cocoa, and baking powder. These dry ingredients will add consistency and flavor to your cake. Start incorporating the flour mixture into the egg foam, spoon by spoon, with a gentle folding motion. This step is crucial for keeping the air in the sponge, so be patient!

4. Baking the sponge
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and level the surface with the spatula. Place the pan in the oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it passes the toothpick test. A toothpick inserted in the center of the sponge should come out clean.

5. Preparing the diplomat cream
While the sponge is baking, you can start preparing the diplomat cream. In a bowl, mix the cream with 150 g sugar until fluffy and firm. In a small pot, heat the syrup from the can of pineapple. Hydrate the gelatin in half a glass of pineapple juice, then add it to the warm syrup, stirring until completely dissolved. Allow the gelatin to cool slightly, then incorporate it into the whipped cream, along with the diced pineapple and orange pieces.

6. Assembling the cake
Once the sponge has completely cooled, cut it into 2 or 3 layers, depending on your preference. You can use 2 layers for a simpler version. Place one layer of sponge in the cake pan (we recommend using a plastic wrap inside to facilitate the removal of the cake later). Pour half of the diplomat cream over the sponge, then add the second layer of sponge. Cover with the remaining cream and refrigerate the cake overnight to set.

7. Decorating the cake
Before serving, whip 300 ml of cream with 100 g sugar until firm. Cover the cake with the whipped cream, decorating it as you wish. You can add grated orange zest on top for a touch of freshness.

Serving
The diplomat cake with pineapple and oranges is best served cold, alongside a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea. It is a wonderful choice to impress friends at a party or to celebrate special moments. Each slice brings a perfect mix of flavors and textures, and the combination of fresh fruits with fluffy cream is simply irresistible.

Useful tips
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting, as this will help achieve an even and airy sponge.
- If you want to personalize the cake, you can replace the pineapple with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or raspberries.
- Gelatin can be replaced with a vegetarian thickening agent if you prefer a dairy-free option.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Whole wheat flour can be used, but it will change the texture and taste of the cake, making it denser.

- How long can I keep the cake in the fridge?
The cake keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, but it is best in the first 24-48 hours.

- What drinks pair well with this cake?
Fresh lemonade or a semi-dry white wine pairs excellently with the flavors of this cake.

I hope this recipe inspires you to create a wonderful dessert for yourself and your loved ones! Don't forget to share the joy of this cake with those around you. Cheers, whether you are the celebrant or not!