Cheesecake with cocoa

Fluffy Cheese and Cocoa Cake – A Sweet Indulgence for Loved Ones

When it comes to special moments spent with loved ones, a fluffy cheese and cocoa cake is the perfect choice to bring smiles to everyone's faces. This recipe not only delights the taste buds but also brings a touch of nostalgia, evoking pleasant memories from grandma's kitchen. Get ready to create a dessert that will quickly become everyone's favorite!

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Number of servings: 12 servings

Ingredients
For a 23x23 cm tray, you will need the following ingredients:

Cocoa Base:
- 180 g flour
- 150 g sugar
- 4 eggs
- 100 ml water or milk
- 100 ml oil
- 3 tablespoons cocoa
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- A pinch of salt

Cheese Mixture:
- 330 g sweet cheese (preferably from a farm, well drained)
- 150 g sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 vial vanilla essence
- Grape berries (optional)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration, optional)

Brief History of the Recipe
The cheese and cocoa cake is a classic dessert that combines the intense flavor of cocoa with the creamy texture of cheese. This combination has its origins in diverse culinary traditions, where cheese desserts are often prepared to celebrate special occasions. It is a versatile dessert, perfect for festive meals as well as everyday treats.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Base
1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential to use clean bowls to achieve a consistent foam.
2. Beating the egg whites: In a bowl, add the egg whites and a pinch of salt. Whip them with an electric mixer on high speed, gradually adding a tablespoon of sugar until you achieve a firm, glossy foam.
3. Mixing the yolks: In another bowl, beat the yolks with the remaining sugar until they become a smooth cream. Add the water or milk and oil, mixing well.
4. Incorporating dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour with the 3 tablespoons of cocoa and baking powder. Then, gradually add this mixture to the yolk mixture, mixing until homogeneous.
5. Incorporating the egg whites: Take the egg white foam and gradually add it to the yolk mixture, gently folding with a spatula in an up-and-down motion to keep the air in the egg whites.

Step 2: Preparing the Cheese Mixture
6. Mixing the ingredients: In a bowl, combine the well-drained sweet cheese with the egg, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla essence. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition.
7. Adding grape berries: If desired, you can add a few grape berries to the cheese mixture for a touch of freshness and a pleasant contrast of textures.

Step 3: Assembling and Baking
8. Pouring the mixture into the tray: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line the tray with baking paper and pour the cocoa mixture evenly on the bottom of the tray.
9. Adding the cheese mixture: Use a spoon to dollop the cheese mixture over the cocoa base, creating interesting patterns. It does not need to be evenly distributed to achieve a rustic look.
10. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the cake for about 30 minutes. Check if it is done using a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is perfectly baked.

Step 4: Serving
11. Cooling and slicing: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the tray. Then, slice it into portions and serve warm or at room temperature. If desired, you can dust it with powdered sugar for a more elegant appearance.

Practical Tips
- Types of cheese: If using store-bought cheese, ensure it is well-drained. Cottage cheese or ricotta can work well, but will require a longer draining time.
- Ingredient variations: You can also add cocoa to the cheese mixture for a more decadent cake or replace the grapes with other seasonal fruits like raspberries or blueberries.
- Serving: This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of aromatic coffee, making each slice a true indulgence!

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
A serving of cake contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. The cheese provides a good source of protein, while cocoa offers beneficial antioxidants for health. This cake is ideal for adding a touch of sweetness to your daily diet without compromising on flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I replace the eggs?: Yes, for a vegan version, you can use mashed bananas or a mixture of flaxseeds with water.
- How can I store the cake?: It stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, sealed in an airtight container.
- Is it suitable for special events?: Absolutely! Its attractive appearance and delicious taste make it perfect for parties or celebrations.

Conclusion
The fluffy cheese and cocoa cake is a dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also brings warmth to the hearts of loved ones. Whether you make it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, each bite will be a joy. So, put on your chef's hat and get ready to create a sweet masterpiece!