Cheese cream cake with red wine jelly

Cheese Cream and Red Wine Jelly Cake - A Holiday Delight

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8

When it comes to celebrating special moments, there's nothing more enjoyable than a cake that impresses not only with its appearance but also with its taste. This cheese cream and red wine jelly cake recipe is perfect for any occasion and won't last long on the platter. Today, I'll share how I created this delicacy to celebrate not only my niece's birthday but also the anniversary of my blog, which turns 2 years old. Surely, every anniversary deserves to be marked with something truly special!

Ingredients that make a difference

Each ingredient in this cake plays an essential role in achieving a unique texture and taste. Here’s what you will need:

For the base (20 cm diameter pan):
- 5 eggs (preferably at room temperature, for a fluffier foam)
- 150 g sugar (fine sugar will help with better homogenization)
- 50 g flour (make sure it's sifted for a fluffier base)
- A pinch of salt (helps enhance the flavor)

For the cheese cream:
- 250 g mascarpone (choose a quality mascarpone for an authentic taste)
- 300 ml liquid cream (cold, for easier whipping)
- Juice of one lemon (for a touch of acidity to balance the cream)
- Vanilla (a natural essence adds a pleasant aroma)

For the red wine jelly:
- 300 ml red wine (opt for a wine with a rich aroma)
- 4 tablespoons sugar (adjustable according to preferences)

For the syrup:
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Juice of half an orange
- 150 ml water

For decoration:
- 400 ml whipped cream (also cold)
- 3 tablespoons 30% fat cream (for a richer texture)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- Funfetti decorations
- White chocolate + food coloring in desired colors
- Edible natural flowers (for an elegant look)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the base:
Start by preheating the oven to 200°C. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and sugar using an electric mixer or whisk. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes voluminous, tripling in size.

2. Adding the flour:
Gently fold the flour into the egg mixture in two batches, using a spatula or whisk to avoid losing air from the mixture. This is key for a fluffy base.

3. Baking:
Line the pan with parchment paper and pour in the mixture. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes at 200°C, then reduce the temperature to 180°C and bake for another 10 minutes, making sure to check if it's done (a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean). Let it cool in the oven, then remove it to a wire rack.

4. Preparing the wine jelly:
In a saucepan, add the wine and sugar. Let it simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes syrupy. This jelly will add an intense flavor to the cake.

5. Cheese cream:
In a bowl, whip the cream until it becomes firm. In another bowl, mix the mascarpone with the lemon juice and vanilla, then gently fold in the whipped cream. This cream is so easy to make and tastes divine.

6. Preparing the syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, orange juice, and water. Boil until the sugar completely dissolves. This will help soak the layers, giving them a delicious taste.

7. Assembling the cake:
Cut the base into 3 equal parts. Soak each layer with the prepared syrup, then add a layer of cheese cream and a layer of wine jelly. Repeat the process for all 3 layers.

8. Decorating the cake:
Use the remaining whipped cream to cover the outside of the cake. Melt the white chocolate and mix it with the food coloring to create a colorful decoration. Apply it around the cake, then add the funfetti decorations and natural flowers. A unique detail I used was to brush the edible flowers with egg white and sprinkle them with sugar for a sparkling effect.

Chef's tip:
For a personal touch, you can add some ground nuts to the cheese cream for added texture or even some berries between the layers. Also, the cake can be served with a glass of red wine to enhance the flavors of the jelly.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake, although indulgent, also offers some nutritional benefits. Mascarpone cheese is a good source of calcium, and red wine, when consumed in moderation, can provide antioxidants. The flour used is a source of carbohydrates, and the fruits you add can provide vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of wine?
Yes, but make sure to choose a wine with a rich aroma that complements the cake's flavor.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake stores well in the fridge, covered, for a few days. However, it is recommended to consume it fresh.

3. Can I replace the mascarpone?
Yes, you can use ricotta cheese or any other creamy cheese, but the taste will be different.

A sweet ending
This cheese cream and red wine jelly cake is not only an excellent choice for anniversaries but also a delicacy that will impress any guest. Whether you are celebrating a special moment or simply want to treat yourself to a delicious dessert, this simple yet elegant recipe will surely become everyone's favorite. Enjoy and savor every bite!