Caramelized cake

Caramel Cake: A Delight with a Hint of Nostalgia

If you are looking for a quick and delicious dessert that combines a soft texture with an irresistible caramel sauce, you've found the perfect recipe! The caramel cake is a dessert that blends simplicity and refinement, making it ideal for both festive meals and everyday indulgence. This recipe is a wonderful way to use old bread, transforming it into a treat that will impress all your loved ones.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Necessary ingredients

To prepare this caramel cake, you will need the following ingredients:

- 3 cups of white bread, crustless, cut into cubes
- 1 cup of milk
- 5 eggs
- 6 tablespoons of sugar + 200 g for caramel
- Zest of one lemon
- 50 g of walnuts, chopped
- 50 g of raisins or candied quinces
- 50 g of almonds or pistachios, shelled and chopped
- 1 shot of brandy (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
- A bit of soft butter for greasing the pan
- 1 long cake pan
- 1 cup of water for caramel

Step by step: How to prepare the caramel cake

1. Preparing the bread: Start by placing the bread cubes in a large bowl. Pour the milk over them and let them soak for 15-20 minutes, until the bread absorbs all the liquid. Use a fork to mash the bread until you get a smooth paste.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until they become a frothy mixture. Add the lemon zest, walnuts, raisins (or candied quinces), almonds (or pistachios), and brandy, if you choose to use it. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

3. Combining the mixtures: Add the bread paste to the egg and sugar mixture. Mix well with a spatula, ensuring that all ingredients are well incorporated.

4. Preparing the caramel: In a saucepan, place 200 g of sugar and 1 cup of water. Boil the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar caramelizes and turns golden. It is essential not to let it burn, so watch the color closely!

5. Preparing the cake pan: Once the caramel is ready, carefully pour it into the cake pan, ensuring that you cover the entire surface. Let the caramel cool and set.

6. Baking the cake: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Grease the pan with soft butter, then pour the cake mixture over the cooled caramel. Place the cake pan in a larger pan filled with water halfway up to create a steaming effect during baking. This will keep the cake moist and fluffy.

7. Finishing: Bake the cake for about 1 hour, or until it is firm to the touch and passes the toothpick test. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate. The caramel will flow over the top, creating a delicious glaze.

Useful tips for a perfect caramel cake

- Bread: Use white bread, but you can also experiment with other types, such as whole grain or even ciabatta. Make sure it is slightly stale to absorb the milk better.
- Nuts and fruits: You can replace the walnuts with other types of seeds or add chocolate for a more decadent flavor.
- Caramel: If you are not comfortable with caramelizing sugar, you can use store-bought caramel, but nothing compares to the aroma of homemade!
- Serving: Serve the caramel cake warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cream, for a delicious contrast.

Nutritional benefits

This cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The bread provides complex carbohydrates, the eggs offer essential proteins, and the nuts and fruits add fiber and healthy fats. Although it is a dessert, when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of milk?
Yes, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or even coconut milk for a lactose-free version.

2. What is the shelf life of the caramel cake?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it is best consumed fresh.

3. Can this cake be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cake after it has completely cooled. Make sure it is well wrapped to avoid absorbing odors from the freezer.

Conclusion

The caramel cake is a simple dessert to prepare, but it adds a touch of magic to any meal. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this dessert will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. There is nothing more enjoyable than the joy of sharing a slice of this cake with those dear to you, bringing together memories and unforgettable moments.

So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure!