Chinese woman

Chinese Cake: a sweet and fluffy delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Who doesn't love a cake that combines fluffy texture with a rich taste of cocoa and nuts? The Chinese cake is a classic recipe, full of flavor and highly appreciated, originating from ancient culinary traditions. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a party, a picnic, or simply a delicious dessert for a quiet evening at home.

Ingredients:

- 200 g butter (ideally at room temperature)
- 6 eggs (separate the egg whites from the yolks)
- 300 g sugar (you can use brown sugar for a more intense flavor)
- 200 g ground nuts (use fresh nuts for a better taste)
- 100 g flour (wheat flour is the most suitable)
- 1 packet baking powder (activated with vinegar)
- 2-3 tablespoons cocoa (use quality cocoa)
- vanilla essence (or a vanilla pod for an authentic taste)
- chocolate (for decoration, you can use dark or milk chocolate, according to your preference)

Preparation:

1. Start by preheating the oven to 170 degrees Celsius. This will ensure even and quick baking of your cake. Prepare a square or rectangular baking pan by lining it with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, begin to cream the butter with 200 g of sugar. Use an electric mixer to achieve a creamy and airy mixture. This step is essential for adding volume to the cake.

3. Add the cocoa and the baking powder activated with vinegar. Although it may seem unusual to use vinegar, it helps activate the baking powder and provides a fluffier texture to the cake.

4. Incorporate the flour and ground nuts. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients. Add the vanilla essence to enhance the flavor.

5. In another bowl, whisk the egg whites until they form a foam, gradually adding a small part of the remaining 100 g of sugar. This will transform the egg whites into meringue, giving the cake a light and airy texture.

6. Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the butter and nut mixture using a spatula to avoid losing air from the mixture. It is important to mix slowly and with an up-and-down motion.

7. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and level the surface with a spatula. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the edges of the cake gently pull away from the pan.

8. Meanwhile, in a bowl, mix the egg yolks with the remaining 100 g of sugar until creamy. This glaze will add a delicious layer of sweetness to your cake.

9. When the base is almost baked, remove the pan from the oven and pour the egg yolk glaze on top. Continue baking for another 8-10 minutes, until the glaze sets slightly.

10. Once the cake is done, leave it in the turned-off oven for a while to cool gradually. This step helps maintain a moist and delicious texture.

11. Grate chocolate on top of the warm cake as desired. This detail adds a touch of elegance and an irresistible flavor.

12. When the cake has completely cooled, you can cut it into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. Enjoy each piece!

Useful tips:

- You can experiment with different types of nuts, such as hazelnuts or almonds, to slightly change the flavor of the cake.
- If you like more intense flavors, add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of coffee to the mixture.
- This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of warm milk or a fragrant black tea.

Nutritional benefits:

The Chinese cake contains nutritious ingredients, such as nuts, which are rich in proteins, fibers, and healthy fats. Additionally, butter and eggs contribute to the intake of healthy fats and proteins. However, it is important to consume in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I replace butter with oil?
Yes, you can use coconut oil or sunflower oil, but the texture and final taste will change slightly. Butter provides a rich flavor and a fluffier texture.

2. Is it possible to make the cake gluten-free?
Sure! Replace wheat flour with almond flour or oat flour, making sure to check if they are gluten-free.

3. How can I keep the cake fresh for longer?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature. You can even freeze it to enjoy later.

Add this recipe to your collection of quick and simple yet impressive desserts! Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply enjoy it at home, the Chinese cake will bring a smile to anyone's face. I encourage you to try it and share your impressions!