Cake Ion&Ioana

Ion & Ioana Cake: A Delicacy with Dedication

In our lives, there are special moments we want to mark with beautiful gestures. This cake, dedicated to all those named Ioan, Ioana, or Oana, is not just a dessert, but a true declaration of love for our dear ones. Inspired by Laura Sava's recipe, I made a few modifications that enhance its flavor. Let's get to work and create a memorable cake together!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

For the base:
- 80 g butter (preferably at room temperature for better mixing)
- 80 g sugar (you can use brown sugar for a more caramelized taste)
- 1 egg (ideally fresh)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (you can replace it with baking powder if you prefer a milder taste)
- 200 g flour (white or whole grain, depending on your preference)

For the filling:
- 4 egg yolks (from fresh eggs for a more intense flavor)
- 200 g sugar
- 1 bottle of vanilla essence (or 1 vanilla pod if you want a natural aroma)
- 500 g cottage cheese (choose well-drained cheese for a fine texture)
- 300 ml milk (whole milk is ideal)
- 4 tablespoons semolina (for perfect consistency)
- 1 packet of vanilla pudding (for a touch of sweetness)
- 100 g raisins (you can use golden or black raisins depending on your preference)

For the meringue:
- 4 egg whites (make sure they contain no yolks for perfect meringue)
- 220 g sugar (fine sugar is the most suitable)
- Juice from 1 lemon (freshly squeezed for flavor)

For decoration:
- Colored candies (optional, for a cheerful look)
- Pomegranate seeds (a delicious and healthy choice)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the base: In a large bowl, start by mixing the butter with the sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and light in color. Add the egg and continue mixing until well incorporated. In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking soda (or baking powder), then gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture until you obtain a homogeneous dough. Spread the dough between two plastic sheets or directly in the detachable wall pan, lined with aluminum foil and baking paper.

2. Preparing the filling: In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sugar until frothy. Add the vanilla essence, cottage cheese, milk, semolina, and vanilla pudding, mixing well. Finally, fold in the raisins. This filling will provide a rich taste and creamy texture to the cake.

3. Assembling the cake: Pour the filling mixture over the prepared base in the pan. Preheat the oven to 170 degrees Celsius and bake the cake for 50 minutes. It is important to check the cake with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, it means it is ready.

4. Preparing the meringue: While the cake is in the oven, prepare the meringue. Beat the egg whites until foamy, then gradually add the sugar and continue mixing for about 3-4 minutes until you obtain a firm meringue. Add the lemon juice and mix until incorporated.

5. Finalizing the cake: After the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, remove the ring and cover the cake with meringue. You can put it back in the oven for 10-15 minutes or, if you have a gas torch, use it to caramelize the meringue, giving it a crunchy texture and a beautiful golden color.

6. Decorating: Once the meringue is ready, decorate the cake with colored candies and pomegranate seeds. These not only add a vibrant look but also a touch of freshness.

Tips and practical advice:

- For a moist cake: Make sure the cottage cheese is well-drained to avoid a too-wet cake. You can use low-fat cottage cheese if you want a lighter version.
- Sweetening: If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or replace sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of essences, such as almond or orange essence, to give the cake an original flavor. Also, replacing raisins with dried cranberries can add an interesting touch.

Nutritional benefits:

This cake is not just a sweet treat but also a good source of protein due to the cottage cheese, which contributes to bone health. Additionally, raisins and pomegranate are rich in antioxidants, contributing to a healthy lifestyle. A balanced dessert that can be enjoyed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use another type of cheese? Of course! You can replace cottage cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a different texture.
- How can I store the cake? The cake stores well in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days. It is recommended to be consumed at room temperature to maintain its optimal texture.
- What drinks pair well with this cake? A cup of herbal tea or a glass of sweet white wine pairs perfectly with this cake, completing the culinary experience.

Conclusion:

The Ion & Ioana Cake is more than just a dessert; it is a creation that blends tradition with innovation and brings family and friends together in moments of joy. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this cake will surely become a favorite recipe. So, dress it with the best ingredients and let your imagination soar! Enjoy!