Caramel cake

Caramel Cake: A Delicacy with an Unforgettable Flavor

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

Welcome to the flavorful world of desserts! Today, I invite you to discover a caramel cake recipe that will turn any moment into a true celebration of tastes. This cake is perfect for serving at parties, birthdays, or simply as a sweet indulgence at the end of a day. With a fluffy base, a delicious cream, and a chocolate glaze that perfectly complements everything, this recipe will surely become a family favorite.

The history of caramel cake is rich in tradition, being a combination of simple ingredients that together create an unforgettable experience. Caramel has been used for centuries in various desserts, and this recipe perfectly blends sweet flavors with a creamy texture, paying homage to classic tastes.

Ingredients

For the base:
- 6 eggs
- 18 tablespoons of sugar (for perfect sweetness)
- 12 tablespoons of flour (for a fluffy texture)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (to help the cake rise)
- 6 tablespoons of water (for a moister mix)

For the cream:
- 1 packet of caramel cream (some brands offer different flavored variants, choose the one you like most)
- 250 ml of milk (boiled, for a rich and consistent cream)
- 1 jar of sour cherries (for a delicious contrast between sweet and sour)

For the glaze:
- 1 chocolate glaze (optional, but recommended for a perfect taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the base:
- Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a mixer until you achieve a stiff foam. This step is essential for ensuring a fluffy texture of the base.
- Gradually add the 18 tablespoons of sugar, continuing to mix until the mixture becomes shiny and firm. It is important to add the sugar gradually to achieve a stable foam.
- In another bowl, beat the yolks and add them over the egg whites, gently folding with a spatula so as not to lose the air in the mixture.
- Sprinkle the baking powder and add the flour, alternating with the 6 tablespoons of water. Mix gently until the ingredients are completely combined. Avoid overmixing, as you want the base to remain light and airy.

2. Baking the base:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C. Prepare a baking tray measuring 30x40 cm, greased with butter and lined with flour or baking paper.
- Pour the mixture into the tray and level the surface with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the base is golden brown and passes the toothpick test (insert a toothpick in the middle; if it comes out clean, it's done).
- Let the base cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely.

3. Preparing the caramel cream:
- In a bowl, mix the packet of caramel cream with sugar and boiled milk, beating until you achieve a consistent cream. Make sure there are no lumps for a smooth texture.
- Let the cream cool to room temperature.

4. Assembling the cake:
- Once the base is completely cooled, cut it in half or leave it whole, depending on your preferences.
- Fill the base with the caramel cream, spreading it evenly. You can add sour cherries either in the cream or as a decoration on top.
- If you decide to cut the base, make sure each layer is well filled with cream.

5. Decorating the cake:
- After filling the cake, decorate the top with the remaining cream and add the sour cherries on top.
- Finish with a drizzle of melted chocolate glaze over the cake for an elegant look. The glaze can be made from dark or milk chocolate, depending on your preferences.

Practical Tips

- Choose quality ingredients: A dessert is only as good as the ingredients used. Opt for quality chocolate and well-preserved cherries.
- Adding flavors: If you want to customize the cream, add a few drops of vanilla or almond essence to the caramel cream.
- Alternative toppings: Instead of cherries, you can use strawberries, raspberries, or even caramelized nuts to add extra texture and flavor.
- Serving: The caramel cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for an even more decadent dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can try whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but be careful to adjust the liquid quantity.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Here, the flavor intensifies, and the cream becomes even more delicious.

3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it is recommended to do so without the glaze. Once thawed, add the glaze and your favorite toppings.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake offers an energy boost due to the carbohydrates from sugar and flour, while the eggs provide the necessary proteins. The cherries add vitamin C and antioxidants, giving a health boost to the dessert. Consumed in moderation, caramel cake can be a delightful part of a balanced diet.

Possible Variations

- Nut caramel cake: Add chopped nuts to the caramel cream for an extra crunch.
- Flavored cake: Experiment with flavors like orange or lemon in the caramel cream for a fresh touch.
- Cold dessert: Transform this recipe into a cold cake by letting the base cool, then assembling it in a cake pan and refrigerating it for a few hours before serving.

In conclusion, caramel cake is an excellent choice for anyone who loves sweet and creamy desserts. With each bite, you will experience a successful combination of textures and flavors. Don't forget to share it with your loved ones and enjoy every moment!