Chinese cake

On an autumn day, when the leaves of the trees were changing colors and the air was fragrant with the aromas of home-cooked meals, I felt a nostalgic call towards the recipes of my childhood. One of the most beloved cakes my mother made was a walnut and chocolate cake, a true feast for the taste buds. This cake, often referred to as 'Chinese cake', is not only delicious but also a perfect choice for holidays or afternoons spent with loved ones. I invite you to discover the steps to create this sweet delight, which will surely bring back pleasant memories and smiles to the faces of those who savor it.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 5 egg whites
- 200 g butter at room temperature
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 200 g ground walnuts
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- 60 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla essence
- A pinch of salt

For the glaze:
- 5 egg yolks
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 30 g milk chocolate (for decoration)

Ingredient details

- Butter: Use quality butter, as it will give the cake a rich texture and creamy flavor. Make sure it is at room temperature for easier incorporation.
- Walnuts: Ground walnuts not only provide a delicious flavor but also add a crunchy texture. You can use any type of walnuts, but Grenoble walnuts are an excellent choice.
- Cocoa: Use good quality cocoa to achieve an intense chocolate flavor. Natural cocoa is more pronounced than processed cocoa, so choose based on your desired taste.
- Vanilla essence: A natural vanilla essence will enhance the flavor of the cake.

Step by step: Preparing the cake

1. Preparing the base:

Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Line a 22 cm or 24 cm baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the edges are covered.

2. Butter cream:

In a large bowl, mix the softened butter with the powdered sugar until the mixture becomes a light and fluffy foam. This step is essential for achieving an airy base.

3. Beating the egg whites:

In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until a firm foam forms. This stage will give the cake the necessary volume.

4. Combining ingredients:

Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the butter cream using a spatula. Do this with slow movements to avoid losing the air in the egg whites.

5. Dry ingredients:

In another bowl, mix the ground walnuts, cocoa, flour, and baking powder. Sift them together to avoid lumps. Add the dry mixture to the wet composition, gently mixing until everything is well combined.

6. Flavoring:

Add the vanilla essence and mix again to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

7. Baking the base:

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and level the surface. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. The inviting smell that will fill the kitchen is a sign that you are on the right track!

8. Preparing the glaze:

After 20 minutes, remove the base from the oven. In a separate bowl, mix the egg yolks with the powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light in color and creamy. Pour the glaze over the base, smoothing it with a spatula.

9. Final baking:

Put the cake back in the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes, until the glaze is set. Once the cake is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool.

10. Decorating:

Grate the chocolate on top of the cooled cake, giving it an appetizing appearance. Cut the cake into portions and enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee.

Serving and variations

This cake pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce. You can also accompany it with a glass of sweet wine or a fragrant tea. If you want to experiment, try adding some dried fruit pieces to the batter or even a hint of espresso in the glaze for a depth of flavors.

Tips and useful advice

- Toothpick test: Check if the base is fully baked by inserting a toothpick in the middle. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
- Keeping it fresh: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its freshness. It can also be frozen, but make sure it is well wrapped.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other nuts?
Yes, you can experiment with ground almonds or pistachios, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the base and glaze, adjusting according to personal taste.

3. Is this cake suitable for vegans?
There are vegan versions using plant-based butter and egg substitutes, but the original recipe is based on animal-derived ingredients.

This cake is more than just a dessert; it is a sweet memory from childhood, a connection to the moments spent with family. Don't hesitate to prepare it for your loved ones and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!