Cheese Ball Cake

The cheese ball cake is a simple delicacy, yet with a unique flavor, combining the fine texture of cocoa sponge with creamy cheese balls. This recipe is ideal for enjoying with family and friends, perfect for any occasion, from parties to casual gatherings. The total preparation time is about 1 hour, and the recipe is sufficient for 8-10 servings.

Necessary ingredients:

*For the sponge:*
- 6 eggs
- 6 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower oil for a neutral taste)
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- 4 tablespoons of cocoa (use good quality cocoa for an intense flavor)
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 1 packet of baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- Rum essence (2-3 drops)

*For the cheese balls:*
- 800 g sweet cheese (you can also use ricotta for a finer texture)
- 100 g raisins (soaked to soften)
- 100 g coconut (for an exotic flavor)
- 5 tablespoons of semolina
- 1 egg
- 5 tablespoons of sugar
- Zest of one lemon (to add freshness)
- Lemon essence (2-3 drops)

Preparation time:
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour

Recipe steps:

1. Preparing the sponge:
- Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. It is important that it is well heated to ensure even baking of the sponge.
- Separate the egg whites from the yolks. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they become frothy. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until you achieve a stiff, glossy meringue.
- In another bowl, beat the yolks and incorporate them one at a time into the egg white mixture, gently folding with a spatula to avoid losing air. Then add the oil, rum essence, and mix well.
- Finally, sift together the flour, cocoa, and baking powder, then gradually fold them into the egg mixture, mixing gently with the spatula.

2. Baking the sponge:
- Prepare a 24/36 cm baking tray by greasing it with oil and dusting it with flour (avoid parchment paper due to the moisture of the cheese).
- Pour the sponge mixture into the tray and level the surface. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool.

3. Preparing the cheese balls:
- In a bowl, mix the sweet cheese with sugar, lemon zest, and lemon essence. Mix well to homogenize the ingredients.
- Add the semolina, soaked raisins, and the egg. Mix until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.
- On a platter, sprinkle the coconut. Form balls from the cheese mixture and roll them in the coconut. Place the balls on the sponge, leaving space between them.

4. Finalizing the cake:
- After placing the balls, you can bake the cake again for 10-15 minutes at 180 degrees or you can let the cake sit at room temperature, so the balls will maintain their shape and not melt.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting and serving.

Useful tips:
- If you want a richer texture, you can add melted dark chocolate to the cheese mixture.
- Replace coconut with chopped nuts or almonds for a different flavor.
- You can serve the cake with a scoop of ice cream or a caramel sauce for an even more decadent dessert.

Nutritional benefits:
- Sweet cheese provides protein and calcium, while cocoa has beneficial antioxidants. This dessert can be a healthier option than other cakes if consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use cottage cheese instead of sweet cheese?
Yes, but make sure it is well drained to avoid excess moisture.
- How can I store the cake?
Keep the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last up to 3 days.

Serving and presentation:
- Cut the cake into squares and serve it on an elegant platter. Add some fresh fruit for a color contrast and a touch of freshness. A glass of lemonade or iced tea will pair perfectly with the sweetness of the cake.

Enjoy every bite of this cheese ball cake and let yourself be carried away by its delicious taste! This recipe is not just a dessert, but also an opportunity to create pleasant memories with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!